Why the Chicago Bears should trade for Maxx Crosby

The Chicago Bears had a very up-and-down year defensively in 2023. While their secondary did its part in leading the NFL with 22 interceptions, the Bears were also second to last in sacks after ranking dead last in total sacks in 2022.

The offseason additions of Demarcus Walker and Yannick Ngakoue were a big help, but they were not able to bring in the same production they both had in previous years. This was partially due to Ngakoue missing four games this season, his most since 2020. The Bears, however, traded for defensive end Montez Sweat back in October, where he produced six sacks, totaling 12.5 sacks this season between his time in Washington and Chicago, the most of his career.

The Chicago Bears should inquire about a trade for Maxx Crosby

While the future looks bright for Matt Erberflus’ front seven, the Bears could use some extra firepower to match the same production as their secondary: In comes Maxx Crosby.

Since entering the league, Las Vegas has had the pleasure of having Crosby at their disposal. Averaging over ten sacks a season since he entered the league, Crosby has been a nice replacement after the Raiders traded Khalil Mack (Ironically to Chicago) back before the 2018 season.

The Raiders interim head coach Antonio Pierce has the support of his locker room. But if the Raiders decide to move on from Pierce, Crosby may be ready for a change of scenery. The Bears currently have two top-ten first-round picks, including a third-round and two fourth-rounders. For a team that has a track record of building its entire identity on defense, it could be wise for Ryan Poles to bolster that front seven and bring in even more reinforcements against opposing quarterbacks in 2024.