The Chicago Bears were one of the most exciting teams in the NFL this season thanks much in part to their dynamic offense led by quarterback Caleb Williams, but defensively, it was another story for the Bears.
Chicago finished 29th in the league in yards allowed and 23rd in points allowed in 2025, so changes certainly need to be made on that side of the ball.
While the Bears could definitely stand to add another pass rusher, they could also use some work in the secondary. Cornerback Jaylon Johnson is a cut candidate after a disappointing campaign, and safety Jaquan Brisker has probably played his last game in the Windy City.
Chicago does not have a ton of financial flexibility, so it probably won’t be able to land anyone of significance in free agency. The Bears could, however, get creative on the trade market, and Anthony Miller of Bear Goggles On has pitched a very enticing trade candidate for the club: Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III.
Could the Chicago Bears pull off a trade for Jessie Bates III?
Dec 29, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III (3) returns an interception for a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams in the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Miller acknowledges that a potential Bates trade may be a bit of a stretch, but with former Bears executive Ian Cunningham now the Falcons general manager, perhaps he and Ryan Poles could connect on a deal.
“Bates is a stellar defender the Falcons love to have in their secondary, but they might be thinking about the future and bringing in younger talent,” Miller wrote. “If Chicago can get Bates back there with [Kevin] Byard, this could be an elite safety room.”
Miller’s proposal has Chicago sending a third-round pick back to Atlanta.
Bates racked up 98 tackles, three interceptions and six passes defended in 2025, earning a Second-Team All-Pro selection.
The 28-year-old was originally selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft and spent the first five years of his career with the Bengals, notching Second-Team All-Pro honors in 2020. He signed with the Falcons in 2023 and rattled off 132 tackles, six picks, three forced fumbles and 11 passes defended, making his first Pro Bowl while achieving Second-Team All-Pro recognition yet again.
Bates has also been incredibly durable, having played in all 17 games three straight seasons. He is entering the final year of his contract and is slated to earn a shade over $14 million in 2026.
There is no doubt that acquiring Bates would be a monumental addition for the Bears’ defense.
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