Bears' defensive gamble: Two first-round picks go to Titans for Simmons

The Chicago Bears have committed two first-round draft picks and a fourth-round selection to acquire defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons from the Tennessee Titans. General Manager Ryan Poles approved the deal, which represents the most expensive trade of the offseason and a clear signal that the team intends to compete for a championship in 2026.

Simmons enters the trade as the leading defensive tackle in the league by several advanced measures. Since the start of the 2025 season, NFL NextGenStats records 15 sacks, 23 tackles for loss, and 85 pressures for the player. He also forced six turnovers via pressure and recorded 31 quick pressures. These metrics place him at or near the top of the NFL in interior pass rush production.

The Bears had previously identified a need for interior pressure to support their defensive ends. Former head coach Dave Wannstedt noted that without inside pressure, defensive ends often appear average when quarterbacks step up to throw. He described Simmons as a playmaking force who would make a huge difference for the unit.

Simmons is currently 29 years old and is entering the prime of his career. He signed a three-year contract worth $105.8 million with the Titans before this season. Under that agreement, he remains under contract for the next two seasons. His presence aims to relieve pressure on edge rushers Montez Sweat and Austin Booker. The Bears also expect to integrate Shemar Turner and Dayo Odeyingbo back into the rotation as they recover from injuries.

This acquisition marks the Bears' largest defensive swing since they acquired Khalil Mack for two first-round picks in a previous year. The team pairs Simmons with safety Coby Bryant, who is currently out with an injury. Wannstedt called the move a huge positive addition for the football team.

The Bears will face their next opponent in a few days. Simmons is scheduled to join the practice squad immediately. The trade deadline passed earlier this week, finalizing the exchange of assets between the two franchises.