The future success of the Chicago Bears defense unequivocally hinges on the performance of its high-profile edge rushers, Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo. The prevailing belief within the organization is that the quickest and most impactful solution to their persistent defensive struggles lies in these two players consistently getting to the quarterback.
New defensive coordinator Dennis Allen brings an aggressive, tone-setting philosophy to Chicago, a style Sweat and Odeyingbo are intimately familiar with. Both players extensively studied the techniques of veteran defensive end Cam Jordan, a perennial Pro Bowler and former player under Allen in New Orleans, whose dominant pass-rushing style serves as a prototype for their own development.
The urgency for defensive improvement is underscored by the Bears’ alarming statistics. Since the commencement of the Matt Eberflus era in 2022, Chicago has recorded a league-low 90 sacks, finishing last in 2022 and second-to-last in 2023. This glaring deficiency, particularly from the defensive end position, highlights a critical area needing immediate and substantial rectification.
Montez Sweat, acquired mid-season last year, provided a glimpse of his potential with six sacks in his partial campaign with the Bears. His proven ability to disrupt opposing offenses made him a central figure in the team’s defensive plans, culminating in a significant four-year, $98 million contract, underscoring the team’s faith in his long-term impact on the Chicago Bears’ pass rush.
Dayo Odeyingbo represents another substantial investment and a strategic gamble for the Bears. Despite having only 16.5 sacks over four seasons with the Colts, including just three last year, the Bears committed a three-year, $48 million deal to the young edge rusher. Coach Allen’s preference for tall defensive ends aligns with Odeyingbo’s physical attributes, and the organization believes he possesses considerable untapped potential to elevate his game.
The considerable financial outlays for both Sweat and Odeyingbo place immense pressure on them to produce. With nine defensive ends in the NFL on multi-year deals averaging more than Odeyingbo’s $16 million per year, and only four on contracts with greater total value than Sweat’s, their performance is expected to justify these substantial investments and transform the team’s defensive efficacy.
Beyond individual efforts, the entire defensive end group needs to elevate its play. Last season, no current Bears defensive end ranked higher than 54th in Pro Football Focus’ pass-rush grades. This widespread underperformance necessitates a collective surge, ensuring that the burden of generating consistent pressure isn’t solely on the shoulders of the two marquee acquisitions.
Strategic flexibility will also be key. Dennis Allen may deploy Odeyingbo at defensive tackle on passing downs, necessitating a reliable third edge rusher. The current depth chart, featuring players like Dominique Robinson, Austin Booker, Daniel Hardy, and veteran Tanoh Kpassagnon, requires significant development or external additions to provide the necessary support and depth for a truly effective pass rush unit.
