The Chicago Bears have solidified their defensive line by locking down Montez Sweat with a substantial contract extension. Sources indicated on Saturday that the 27-year-old defensive end has accepted a four-year extension, boosting his financial prospects with the Bears considerably.
Under the new contract, Sweat will receive $98 million, with the total value hitting $105 million, which breaks down to an average of $24.5 million annually. Of that, a whopping $72.8 million is guaranteed, as detailed by NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport.
Sweat’s journey to the Bears was initiated by a trade from the Washington Commanders just before the deadline this past Tuesday. The Commanders received a second-round draft pick for 2024 in return. Previously, Sweat was on track to make $11.5 million from his rookie contract after the Commanders exercised his fifth-year option in April of the previous year.
Upon Sweat‘s arrival in Chicago, speculation about a possible extension was rampant among sports journalists. In response to inquiries at a news conference on Thursday, Sweat hinted at ongoing discussions: “I’m sure my agents and them are talking about something. Obviously a player always wants to have security, playing the sport that we’re playing.”
Despite his cool demeanor, Sweat revealed a touch of uncertainty in his new surroundings, sharing with reporters his lack of knowledge about even where he would be sleeping that night. Sweat’s record with the Commanders was notable, with 35.5 sacks in 67 games spanning over four and a half seasons.
Sweat said goodbye to the Commanders
As he bid farewell to Washington, Sweat took to social media on Friday with a heartfelt message, showing appreciation for the franchise that had selected him with the 26th overall pick in the 2019 draft from Mississippi State. He extended his thanks to both fans and former teammates and looked ahead: “I’m excited & looking forward to what’s to come.”
This season, Sweat has continued his impressive performance with 21 solo tackles and 6.5 sacks in just eight games. His consistent record of notching at least five sacks for the past five seasons places him among the top six players in the league.
The Bears are poised to reap the rewards of Sweat’s talents, particularly in an area of need – their pass rush. They currently trail in the league with a mere 10 sacks, with no other team having fewer than 15. Sweat’s addition is expected to bolster a defensive end group that has accounted for only five sacks this season.
Fans can anticipate Sweat’s first game in a Bears uniform to take place this Sunday when they face off against the New Orleans Saints, as confirmed by head coach Matt Eberflus. With this deal, the Bears are not only gaining a proven pass rusher but also displaying a commitment to building a formidable defense for seasons to come.
