The Chicago Bears are facing a familiar problem as they approach the 2026 offseason: they need more help on the edge of their defense. Despite having Montez Sweat as the focal point of their pass rush, the Bears have struggled to generate consistent pressure with their front four. While they signed Dayo Odeyingbo to a three-year, $48 million contract last offseason, his season-ending Achilles injury cut short his first year in Chicago. With Odeyingbo's injury and the need for more pass rush help, the Bears are considering free agency options. However, one player they should avoid signing is Kwity Paye, a former first-round pick who will be 27 years old when free agency opens. Paye's production has declined sharply in 2025, with only 4.0 sacks compared to 8.0 in 2024. His impact plays have also become less frequent, with only nine QB hits in 16 games. Paye's camp is likely to seek a multi-year deal averaging well into the $15-20 million range, which the Bears should avoid due to their need for consistent one-on-one matchups, particularly on passing downs. Another player to steer clear of is Boye Mafe, who has a career-low 2.0 sacks in 16 games this year. With more promising options available, such as Trey Hendrickson, Jaelan Phillips, and Khalil Mack, the Bears would be better off inking one of them rather than risking it with Paye or Mafe.
