Ryan Poles Trade Plans Just Became Crystal Clear

The Chicago Bears were one of those teams that felt on the fringe of the trade deadline buzz. Much of it was due to their limited draft capital and a 4-3 record that was not entirely secure. That is why the game on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals carried such importance. A win would put them at 5-3 and in serious contention for the NFC playoffs. A loss would cripple those hopes. GM Ryan Poles might make his decision based on the outcome. So when the Bears pulled off their insane 47-42 triumph, it felt like the green light went on for him to pull the trigger on any deal he could find.

However, that wasn't the only thing that may determine what the Bears GM does. Jay Glazer of Fox Sports said the team was being aggressive on the market, looking for help. He later clarified that their focus is on the defensive side of the ball, particularly pass rush. That was hammered home during the game when Dayo Odeyingbo, their big free agent addition, exited with an ankle injury and didn't return. If he misses time, he will be the Bears' third defensive end in such a situation, along with Shemar Turner (ACL) and Dominique Robinson (high ankle sprain).

Right now, Montez Sweat and Austin Booker are their only healthy options. It cannot stay that way.

Ryan Poles should have some viable options to pursue.

Several names have floated around the rumor mill ahead of the deadline on Tuesday. Most prominent among them are Jaelan Phillips (Dolphins), Bradley Chubb (Dolphins), Jermaine Johnson (Jets), Arden Key (Titans), Boye Mafe (Seahawks), Kayvon Thibodeaux (Giants), Trey Hendrickson (Bengals), and Arnold Ebiketie (Falcons). There are plenty of intriguing names. For Ryan Poles, it will likely come down to two factors: how much draft currency it costs and the size of their current contract.

Chicago doesn't have much salary cap space. They could create more, but the likelier outcome is they'll seek somebody with a reasonable contract number this year. That rules out Hendrickson and Chubb. Based on history, Poles usually targets younger players. Phillips, Johnson, Thibodeaux, and Mafe check that box. Thibodeaux is unlikely because New York will want a high draft pick. That leaves the other three. Don't be surprised if one of them ends up in a Bears uniform over the next 48 hours.