Bears Trade Three Picks for Simmons

The Chicago Bears sent two first-round picks and a fourth-round selection to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and a fifth-round pick. The transaction represents a substantial financial commitment from a franchise that is currently 5-2 and competing in the top five of the league in offensive production despite quarterback Caleb Williams missing three games and part of a fourth.

Head coach Ben Johnson stated during the offseason that he intended to build the highest-scoring offense in National Football League history. He specifically cited the 2013 Denver Broncos, who averaged 37.9 points per game, as the benchmark. The Bears achieved a 59-37 victory over the Carolina Panthers in the first week of the 2026 season, demonstrating the offensive potential Johnson described.

The decision to invest heavily in defense stems from the team's struggles in the previous campaign. In 2025, the Bears finished with an 11-6 record and advanced to the playoffs, but their defense ranked 29th in yards per play allowed. The team went 2-6 in games where they did not force multiple turnovers. Their season ended in the divisional round against the Los Angeles Rams, a contest in which they did not record a single turnover.

Simmons brings immediate statistical impact to the interior line. He leads all interior defensive linemen in ESPN pass rush win rate and is tied for third in pressures among that group according to PFF. He has recorded four sacks, a number tied for the most among defensive tackles, and leads all interior linemen with 24 tackles. His presence is expected to alleviate pressure on the Bears' edge rushers and enhance the effectiveness of head coach Dennis Allen's blitz packages.

The move places Chicago in the same category as other contenders who made aggressive acquisitions at the trade deadline. The Seattle Seahawks acquired offensive tackle Quenton Nelson, and the San Francisco 49ers signed interior defensive lineman DeForest Buckner. Both teams are potential opponents for Chicago in the postseason. The Bears are betting that Simmons can elevate a defense that currently ranks last in yards per play and explosive play rate allowed.

The success of this trade hinges on the continued development of Caleb Williams. In the most recent week, Williams completed 22 of 33 passes for 308 yards and two touchdowns without an interception in a win against the New England Patriots. He recorded eight completions of 20 or more yards, tying the single-game season record. His efficiency rating ranks fourth in the league, behind only Josh Allen, Jared Goff, and Brock Purdy.

The Bears recently welcomed back safety Kyler Gordon, whose blitzing ability has already improved the defensive scheme. The team expects safety Coby Bryant to return from knee surgery before the season concludes. Edge defender Dayo Odeyingbo, who began the year strongly before sustaining a quadriceps injury, is also projected to return. These additions aim to create a defensive unit capable of supporting the championship-caliber offense the Bears have constructed.

Simmons is 29 years old and has maintained elite performance levels throughout his career. The Bears view this acquisition as a necessary step to transition from a team that survives on turnovers to one that can dominate defensively. The trade cost is high, but the organization believes the combination of Williams' progression and Simmons' disruptive ability provides the best path to a Super Bowl appearance.