The Chicago Bears have continued to state publicly that they like the makeup of their defensive line. It isn't entirely false. They have a good core of guys led by Montez Sweat, Gervon Dexter, Dayo Odeyingbo, and Grady Jarrett. However, many still feel the team lacks a true second pass rusher opposite Sweat. That is why the rumors around Trey Hendrickson remain hot and ongoing. The 30-year-old still hasn't reached any common ground with Cincinnati on a new contract. Unless that changes, a trade remains more than plausible.
However, Hendrickson isn't the only notable name the Bears are monitoring. Sources revealed they also have eyes on T.J. Watt. The former All-Pro is embroiled in his own contract situation with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He, too, has decided to sit out mandatory minicamps. While it remains unlikely the two sides will have a falling out, it remains a touchy situation. If things do go sideways, the Bears plan to make overtures about a deal. There is no question that Watt would be an immediate difference-maker on the team.
The Trey Hendrickson and Watt ideas originate from a surprising source.
One would think GM Ryan Poles or defensive coordinator Dennis Allen would be the ones pushing for such a move. Poles likes making bold moves in the right situations, and either would benefit Allen's defense. In truth, Ben Johnson is the man urging an aggressive mindset. He wants to win this year and has made his stance known to Poles. If an opportunity arises to go after a big name that doesn't involve breaking the bank, they should do it. Offense or defense doesn't matter. Between Trey Hendrickson and T.J. Watt, it feels like the former remains the most likely. Pittsburgh doesn't have a history of trading superstar players. High noon for this will be the start of training camp. If nothing changes, the trade possibility becomes much more real.
