1 free agent Bears must sign after failing to fix pass rush problem in 2026 NFL Draft

While the Chicago Bears entered the 2026 NFL Draft with a major need for pass rush, they didn’t select any edge rushers. If the Bears want to make any more additions, free agency may be their best bet.

At this stage, many of the top free agents have already signed. However, there is still plenty of talent available. It’s unlikely Chicago will find a true long-term option amongst the current free agents. But a veteran on a short-term deal could make a lot of sense.

His addition would give the Bears extra insurance behind projected starters Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo. Furthermore, if Chicago were to elect an edge-rusher with their first-round pick in 2027, a spot will be open for them.

There are a number of veterans the Bears could target. But Joey Bosa would fit the needs that Chicago will be desperately coveting after the draft.

Bears must sign Joey Bosa 

Bosa will be turning 31-years-old in July and will be entering his 11th NFL season when he plays a down in 2026. The Bears or any team that sign him will first need to be certain the edge rusher is fully healthy and ready to be a real contributor.

During the 2025 season though, Bosa had no problem proving he is still a difference maker. Over 15 games with the Buffalo Bills, the pass rusher put up 29 tackles, 16 quarterback hits, five sacks and a career-high five forced fumbles. His 79.3 overall grade from Pro Football Focus ranked 17/115 edge rushers while his 88.7 pass rush grade ranked seventh. If he were playing on the Bears, Bosa would’ve ranked second in quarterback hits and third in sacks.

A year prior, he was named to his fifth overall Pro Bowl after putting up 13 quarterback hit and five sacks with the Los Angeles Chargers. Over his entire 10-year career, Bosa has put up 372 tackles, 172 quarterback hits and 77 sacks. He has at least five sacks over his last three seasons and over five in any season in which he appeared in more than five games.

With the free agents available, the Bears should be looking for a pass rush specialist. Someone who won’t hurt the development of Odeyingbo/Turner but still pack a punch when needed. Bringing Bosa in on clear passing downs would make Chicago much more fearsome on defense.

The franchise has remained committed to their current defensive line. It’s clear they believe the core they have now can at least compete in 2026. But the Bears will be competing for at least the NFC North crown in their upcoming season. To battle against the best quarterbacks in the league, they cannot have a weak pass rush again.

Bosa won’t turn the Bears into world beaters over night. But if healthy, he would give Chicago a better chance of getting to the quarterback consistently. At the very least, he’s the type of free agent the Bears should be targeting to bolster their defense. Preferably on a short-term deal.

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