The NFL trade deadline may have passed, but that doesn’t mean teams are done improving their rosters. For the Chicago Bears, sitting at 5-3 and building real momentum under a revamped culture and coaching staff, there’s a move still out there that makes too much sense to ignore: signing free-agent cornerback Asante Samuel Jr.
Yes, Samuel carries an injury risk after his recent health issues, but it’s important to note that team doctors have already cleared him for a return. That alone makes him a compelling low-risk, high-reward addition. In a league where great corners are at a premium, gambling on a player with Samuel’s upside could wind up being one of the savviest post-deadline decisions of the year. One that Bears general manager Ryan Poles should be all over.
The Bears defense has turned a corner in 2025, but depth in the secondary is still a real concern—especially with the remaining opponents on their schedule. Adding Samuel, a former second-round pick with proven ball-hawking ability, would improve the defense while giving Chicago another weapon at cornerback.
Financially, this move is more than feasible. Coming off an injury and still on the open market, Samuel’s asking price shouldn’t break the bank. And for a player still just 26 years old, the upside is too tempting to overlook.
A 5-3 record, exciting young core, and strong coaching staff could make Chicago the perfect place for Samuel to revive his career.
