NFL Rumors: Chicago Bears may be making a push for Commanders DE, Chase Young
Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles may be up to something before the October 31st trade deadline. Rumors have intensified today that Poles is in pursuit of Washington Commanders defensive end Chase Young, who could become available if the Commanders, as expected, become sellers at the deadline.
With a record of 2-5, the Bears don't fit the traditional mold of a trade deadline buyer, but there could be truth to this rumor if the Bears are looking to lock Young up long-term. Young's contract is up at the end of the year, and he is expected to command a hefty deal in free agency, which could contribute to Washington's reasoning for possibly dealing him.
The Chicago Bears are rumored to be in on a Chase Young trade
The Commanders are said to be looking for a second-round pick for Young. Should the Bears do it? Here's what Ryan Poles needs to think about before pulling the trigger.
Pro: Chase Young would instantly add credibility to the Chicago Bears defense
Young has half as many sacks as the entire Bears team this year. He's a former #2 overall pick, and he would be the face of the defense immediately upon his arrival. The Bears' defense has been near the bottom of the NFL for a few years now, and they've lacked a star since trading away Roquan Smith to the Ravens last year. For a franchise that has employed the likes of Butkus, Dent, Singletary, and Urlacher, while always relying on a defensive identity, this needs to change.
Con: Chicago Bears fans already have PTSD from trading for a guy named Chase
Chase Claypool, who was jettisoned to the Miami Dolphins for a couple of Cubano sandwiches earlier this month, looms large over a potential Chase Young deal. As Bears fans will never forget, Poles acquired Claypool from the Pittsburgh Steelers for a second-rounder last year in a deal that is already cemented as one of the worst in franchise history.
Claypool was a colossal bust in Chicago, failing to make a difference while looking disinterested in putting in the work required to be an NFL receiver. The fact that the second-rounder the Bears dealt for him ended up being the 32nd overall pick in the draft (which the Steelers used on Joey Porter, Jr., who has been fantastic) was the icing on an already burnt cake.