The trade deadline ended up passing without too much drama for the Chicago Bears. GM Ryan Poles opted to keep things simple, swapping picks with the Cleveland Browns to secure edge rusher Joe Tryon-Shoyinka. It wasn't the splash many wanted, but it at least gave the Bears some much-needed depth along the defensive line. Shoyinka was a decent player in Tampa Bay, but didn't see much action in Cleveland. At the very least, he should be healthy and motivated. However, the real intrigue is in the deals Chicago didn't make.
Most people are aware of the negotiations with the New York Jets for Jermaine Johnson. Those ultimately fell apart because the asking price was too high. Sources informed Sports Mockery that the Bears explored another minor deal that would have gotten a pretty big reaction.
There were discussions between Poles and head coach Ben Johnson about trading for Evan Neal.
It was common knowledge that the former 1st round offensive tackle was available from the New York Giants. He'd found himself on the bench after some rough seasons at right tackle and a failed switch to guard. Some at Halas Hall believed it might be worth exploring the idea of switching him to left tackle, his original position in college. Neal never got that chance in New York because they had Andrew Thomas. Ultimately, the Bears chose to stand pat.
Ryan Poles likely had reasons to at least consider the idea.
The left tackle situation for Chicago remains in flux. Theo Benedet has been a tremendous part of the team's resurgent ground game since taking over as the starter. However, it came at a cost. His pass protection has been problematic at times, no doubt due to a mix of his shorter length and flawed fundamentals. It isn't certain he will be able to overcome those issues. Neal is a physical specimen who dominated at Alabama. For all his problems in New York, much of it could be chalked up to the position switch. Some players don't handle that too well.
Ultimately, Ryan Poles felt the move lacked sufficient upside. Neal will be a free agent next offseason. If the Bears want to explore the idea, they can do it then—no need to give up any draft capital for the experiment. This is another example of those conversations we rarely hear about that occur as the deadline approaches.
