The Chicago Bears have been trying to figure out what to do about their defensive line this offseason, with multiple signings being made, but a new option could completely flip the franchise for 2026.
It was reported that New York Giants three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence has requested a trade from the team. All of a sudden, a perfect player can instantly help the Bears' defense, which was in the bottom half of the league in 2025 in total defense.
There's just one problem: Chicago has $1 million in cap space. What can the team do first to move things forward with Lawrence, and what can they offer to close the deal?
How to afford Dexter Lawrence before Bears trade for him?
Well, first off, they are going to have to restructure some contracts and give some extensions. Linebacker T.J. Edwards might be in line for a contract extension. The Bears can take a look at some other contracts to see which ones they can restructure as they have to have at least $27 million as that is the estimate cap hit in 2026 and 2027 for Lawrence.
Some players might have to be moved off the roster. Tight end Cole Kmet and running back D'Andre Swift have been popular names for players to be released or traded from the team since they have big cap hits.
Trade Offer #1: Bears Receive: DT Dexter Lawrence
Giants Receive: 2026 first-round pick, 2026 second-round pick (57th overall pick)
This is the offer that the Giants want, as they want two picks in the first two rounds. The Bears are loaded with four picks in the first three rounds, so they might as well get rid of some of them. If Chicago did this, they'd still have the 60th overall pick in the second round and their third-round pick, so it's a win-win for them.
Trade Offer #2: Bears Receive: DT Dexter Lawrence
Giants Receive: 2026 first-round pick, 2027 second-round pick, RB D'Andre Swift
Maybe the Giants can help with the Bears' salary cap situation and take Swift off their hands while giving up a couple of picks in the process. Chicago can easily draft Swift's replacement, so they don't have to worry about that.
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Trade Offer #3: Bears Receive: DT Dexter Lawrence
Giants Receive: 2026 first-round pick, 2026 third-round pick, DT Gervon Dexter
Still giving up a couple of picks this year, but holding on to the two second-round picks and giving them a young talent in Dexter. The Bears wouldn't be fans of getting rid of Dexter, but Lawrence is a top-five defensive tackle, and, similar to Swift, Chicago can find Dexter's replacement in the draft.