The Chicago Bears almost pulled off another surprise trade this past week. Reports surfaced that they were involved in talks to acquire four-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Matthew Judon from the New England Patriots. They were neck-and-neck with the Atlanta Falcons for the honor. However, multiple sources indicate the two sides couldn’t agree on a solution to Judon’s ongoing contract situation. As a result, Atlanta’s offer was accepted. Ryan Poles would have to await another opportunity.
The Bears GM spoke with the FOX 32 broadcast crew during his team’s win over the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday. He made it clear that his stance on the Judon pursuit was the same as it’s been with previous trades. When opportunities are there to make the Bears better, and it makes sense, he will be aggressive. With Judon off the table, it sounds like the team is content to stick with who they have for the time being. Maybe another option pops up in the coming weeks.
“We’re always looking across the league to find opportunities to make our team better. Obviously, they got to make sense all the way around. When those doors open, we’re gonna go through them and have those conversations. But I’ll tell you this, I’ve been really excited about [Austin] Booker’s play. Dominique Robinson has started to develop.
“We got some good competition, and I think either way, we’re going to be all right. But again, as a front office, we’re going to just continue to look for those opportunities.”
Ryan Poles’ options are limited at the moment.
The last known option on the trade market is Haason Reddick. He’s locked in a contract standoff with the New York Jets, who have declared they have zero intention of trading him. After that, nobody else has come to light. Yannick Ngakoue is still available. He should be healed from his ankle injury last season. The Bears could also go digging for potential gems in the waiver wire at the end of the month. Truth be told, they are unlikely to find a viable option, at least until the trade deadline in October.
There is no question that Austin Booker’s ascent during the preseason has likely eased some of the Bears’ fears. He has looked excellent in each of his preseason appearances, showcasing power, quickness, and instincts. As for Dominique Robinson, reports insist he’s bulked up and looked good in practice. The problem is that it still isn’t translating to games. He will be one to watch. Ryan Poles won’t tip anybody off to his real plans, so keep those ears open for possible news over the next two weeks.
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I won’t mind taking a chance on Robinson, but he’s cooked and it’s time to move on. I can’t ever imagine him being better than Ngakoue. Poles may be waiting to see if a surprise OL is cut, assuming one isn’t you gotta sign Yannick and cut ties with Dominique.
And for the love of God, fix the login nonsense.
@BearCub30: Usually, when a vague question is asked with two options, the best answer is ‘both’. I think teams without a young top tier edge would want both an older established edge, and mid tier rotational edges to rest the old guy and keep everyone fresher. Of course, there’s the salary cap issue, so ideally the mid tier guys are on rookie contracts that are much more manageable. And yes, I have no freaking idea how Quinn managed 18 sacks, especially when Mack was injured. Every opponent knew he was the one guy on the DL who could get a… Read more »
Tred has a solid point. The game is evolving. The way we use players is changing. Is it better to have an older established expensive edge or multiple mid tier rotational edges to have constant fresh legs on the field? I’m not saying one way or the other because the Quinn argument is going to always be there. I still don’t get how that guy pulled off 18 sacks in one season???
Say what you will, and I’m good either way. Judon wanted an extra 5 mill bumped onto his salary this year because the team had a bunch of extra money. His injury was a biceps. NE is said to be tanking for a tackle is the talk on NE radio. For a 3rd rounder, he would have been well worth it, he’s a stud, and team leader. If he goes to FA this summer, I’d find a beneficial agreement, if possible. I am a build through the draft first guy, but he’s an established guy and I want OL/DL in… Read more »
Teams around the NFL will be trying to sneak younger pass rushers and IOL on the practice squads – usually because their coaches want extra special teams help. That’s where you look for diamonds in the rough.
Cut some of your end of bench STs only guys, and stock up on young pass rush and IOL.
Make up for any STs cuts by making more of the team available (most of it, even) available to help out on STs.