Chicago Bears insider explains quiet trade deadline day decision

Imagn Images

Chicago Bears insider explains quiet trade deadline day decision

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Dan Fappiano | Last updated Nov 13, 2026 3:52 PM ET

The Chicago Bears were certainly active leading up to the trade deadline, swinging a blockbuster deal for All-Pro Jeffery Simmons. But on deadline day itself, the Bears decided to stay quiet.

Chicago is reeling a bit in the draft pick department, seeing as they moved two firsts and a fourth for Simmons. Furthermore, his addition fixes plenty of holes on defense itself. At 7-2 and undefeated since the defensive tackle’s arrival, the Bears’ plan seems to be working as is.

But at the same time, there remain clear issues on Chicago’s roster. The team’s cornerback room has struggled throughout the campaign while the Bears lost tight end Cole Kmet to a season-ending injury. Fans were clamoring for additions at both positions leading up to the trade deadline.

With the Bears deciding against making another move, they’re prepared to fight for a Super Bowl title as established. Ultimately, Chicago trusts the depth already on their roster.

Chicago Bears not sweating quiet trade deadline

Nov 8, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons (99) reacts after the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Talia Sprague-Imagn Images

While the Bears were willing to pay a hefty price to acquire Simmons, general manager Ryan Poles wasn’t going to just start throwing picks around. He wanted to be smart with Chicago’s draft capital, as the team’s core has largely been built on it.

Furthermore, the team has relied on their depth throughout any injury problems the first half of the year. The Bears will continue to do so to aid their playoff push, via Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune.

“Here’s one thing I would remind you of: The Bears have touted their depth since they formed the 53-man roster,” Biggs wrote. “Ben Johnson said recently they have players on the practice squad who are performing at a level where they can be counted on in games. It’s time for that depth to be tested.”

“The list of players on the street who can help is thin,” he continued. “So the Bears and every other contender will have to solve roster issues that pop up between now and the end of the season with depth they have accumulated. The Bears have projected the belief that they’re comfortable in that position.”

The Bears have a difficult task in front of them with so many NFC North matchups in front of them. But even without further trades, the franchise feels confident in building off of their hot start.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: