The Chicago Bears spent much of the offseason exploring ways to upgrade their pass rush, including reported interest in elite edge rusher Maxx Crosby. But as top-tier options come off the board and trade talks stall, a more realistic alternative has emerged in linebacker Von Miller.
The veteran is a free agent after his one-year contract with the Washington Commanders expired.
According to a recent breakdown by Bleacher Report analyst Gary Davenport, Miller has been identified as a potential fit for Chicago.
“Von Miller may no longer be the player who went to eight Pro Bowls over his first nine seasons and was named the MVP of Super Bowl 50,” Davenport wrote.
“But last year in Washington, Miller had nine sacks in just 420 snaps. He is likely looking to land with a team that has a legitimate shot at a long postseason run.”
That balance of experience, production, and situational impact is exactly why Miller has become a name to watch for the Bears.
Despite an encouraging 11-win season and a playoff appearance, the Bears still have a glaring issue on defense without consistent pressure off the edge.
The team finished last season with just 35 sacks, ranking tied for 28th in the NFL. While Montez Sweat led the way with 10 sacks, the supporting cast failed to deliver steady production.
Interior defender Gervon Dexter provided occasional disruption, but the outside pass rush remained inconsistent throughout the year.
Why a move for Von Miller makes sense
That lack of depth is what makes the Miller discussion relevant for teams like Chicago, who need to create some stability in their defense.
Even at 37, Miller showed last season that he can still be effective in a reduced role. His nine sacks on just 420 snaps highlight a key trait the Bears currently lack.
A move for Crosby failed to materialize due to the Las Vegas Raiders‘ demands for two first-round picks.
While head coach Ben Johnson does not necessarily need another every-down edge rusher, they need a rotational player who can impact obvious passing downs, create pressure alongside Sweat, and provide leadership in critical late-game situations.
That is where Miller fits naturally into the equation. His résumé speaks for itself as a former Super Bowl MVP with the Denver Broncos.
Miller has long been regarded as one of the most dominant postseason pass rushers of his era and starred for the Buffalo Bills between 2022 and 2024.
That type of playoff experience carries added value for a young locker room still learning how to compete deep into January.
Financial realism also plays a role
Unlike blockbuster trade targets or younger free agents commanding long-term deals, Miller represents a cost-effective solution.
According to projections from Spotrac, his next contract could land around one year and $5.8 million. For a team like the Bears operating with limited financial flexibility, that kind of short-term investment is far more manageable than pursuing a high-priced edge rusher on a multi-year deal.
It also preserves cap space for future roster building while still addressing an immediate need. If Chicago ultimately pursues Miller, it would likely signal a broader strategy rather than a long-term fix.
The team is still expected to explore edge rusher talent in the upcoming draft, meaning Miller could serve as a veteran bridge while younger players develop.
In that sense, the fit makes logical sense. For a Chicago team transitioning from rebuilding to contending, that balance may be exactly what the front office is looking for.
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