The Chicago Bears are sitting at 3-1 through the first month of the season, and they certainly look like they're poised to contend once again in the NFC, despite missing starting quarterback for the past two weeks. That means Chicago could be looking to add ahead of next month's trade deadline, which could feature a familiar face.
According to The Athletic's Jonathan Jones, a potential reunion between the Bears and edge rusher Khalil Mack is starting to gain some steam among NFL execs: "Khalil Mack to Chicago is something multiple league sources told me makes the most sense if both teams continue on their respective trajectories."
The Bears made a splash when they traded to Khalil Mack back in Sept. 2018, and he helped elevate their defense in a huge
way immediately and for the next couple of years. But amid injuries and a massive salary cap hit, general manager Ryan Poles released him just a couple months on the job.
In four seasons with the Bears, Mack logged 36 sacks, 52 QB hits, 163 tackles, including 35 tackles for loss, 14 forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries, two interceptions and 11 pass breakups. He missed most of his final year in 2021 due to injury.
While there was a belief Chicago could bring back Mack during free agency, he opted to re-sign with the Los Angeles Chargers on a one-year deal. But with the Chargers winless and spiraling, there's a belief they could look to deal some players and look to acquire draft picks to build for the future. That is, should their struggles continue.
For the Bears, their defense has been among the NFL's best over the last three weeks, despite a disastrous Week 1 outing against the Carolina Panthers. They still struggle to get pressure on the quarterback with their front four, so adding someone like Mack to pair opposite Montez Sweat cold help elevate their defense once again.
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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: NFL insider believes Bears could reunite with former star edge rusher
