We already know GM Ryan Poles isn't afraid to make aggressive trades. He shipped the #1 overall pick to Carolina for a massive package, including a future 1st and wide receiver D.J. Moore. He also sent 2nd round picks to Pittsburgh and Washington for Chase Claypool and Montez Sweat, respectively. While the results have varied, it is a clear indication that Poles isn't afraid to take a swing if he feels it will benefit the Chicago Bears. That is why listening to Adam Schefter whenever the team is mentioned is important.
Remember, the ESPN insider was among the few saying the team was very much a threat to hire Ben Johnson last month. His sources rarely steer him wrong. That is why what he dropped on The Pat McAfee Show can't be ignored. The NFL off-season carousel kept spinning with the news that All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett had requested a trade from the Cleveland Browns. Initially, you'd think Chicago isn't an option since the 29-year-old would prefer joining a contender.
Schefter begged to differ.
Adam Schefter might be speculating, or he might not.
Of all the teams he could've mentioned, the Bears is a fascinating one. On the surface, nobody would confuse them as an established contender. They haven't had a winning season since 2018 and haven't made the playoffs since 2020. They haven't won a playoff game since 2010. It doesn't feel like Garrett would prefer the type of landing spot. Yet, according to Adam Schefter, it is all about perception. The superstar pass rusher is looking for hope. With the presence of Caleb Williams and Ben Johnson, a good list of weapons, and an already talented defense, one could argue that this team is ready to make the jump. All they need is one more push. Putting Garrett on the same line as Sweat and Gervon Dexter would be quite the shove.
As always, trades of this magnitude will be expensive. The Bears would likely need a package similar to the Khalil Mack deal in 2018. Do they think this move would get them over the top? Only Poles and Johnson can answer that.
