With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, the Chicago Bears might target a top edge rusher early, but recent trade rumors involving T.J. Watt could present a bigger opportunity. Last week, Watt stirred speculation by posting a “peace out” gesture on Instagram, possibly hinting at frustration over stalled contract talks with the Steelers. His $112million deal expires after the 2025 season.
If Watt is looking to leave Pittsburgh, Bleacher Report’s Kurt Benkert thinks the Bears could be a prime landing spot. He floated a trade idea where Chicago gives up its 2025 first-round pick (No. 10), along with 2026 first- and second-rounders, to land the seven-time Pro Bowler. The Bears would then need to renegotiate Watt’s deal or reduce his $30 million cap hit for 2025.
Benkert emphasized that Chicago is well-positioned financially thanks to having a rookie quarterback contract and a young, developing roster. Watt, he said, could be the final piece to elevate the Bears to true contender status.
**A Game-Changer for the Bears**
Acquiring Watt would be a blockbuster deal — possibly even bigger than the Khalil Mack trade in 2018. Watt, who has racked up 108 sacks and 225 QB hits over eight seasons, won Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 and has earned Pro Bowl honors every year, even during an injury-shortened 2022.
Lining him up alongside Montez Sweat and new addition Dayo Odeyingbo could transform the Bears’ defense and open a championship window for the next few seasons. However, it won’t come without risk.
While Watt’s production justifies the cost — especially after his dominant 2023 season with 19 sacks — a new contract could be tricky. With significant money already tied to Sweat and Odeyingbo, fitting Watt under the cap could be difficult. Per Over the Cap, the Bears project to have $54 million in space for 2026, not quite enough to offer a deal matching Myles Garrett’s $40 million per year extension.
**Could Watt Follow the Garrett Path?**
Watt’s situation is drawing comparisons to Myles Garrett’s earlier this offseason. Garrett asked for a trade from Cleveland but ultimately stayed after landing a $160 million extension. A similar outcome could unfold in Pittsburgh if the Steelers decide to commit to Watt long-term.
So far, Watt hasn’t formally requested a trade, but if negotiations stall into training camp, Pittsburgh may face pressure to act — or risk a holdout from one of the league’s best defender.