Chicago Bears’ Montez Sweat breaks silence on PED suspension

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Chicago Bears’ Montez Sweat breaks silence on PED suspension

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Dan Fappiano | Last updated Oct 28, 2026 4:47 AM ET

While they went 2-0 in that span, the Chicago Bears have been without the services of pass rusher Montez Sweat. The defensive end has been serving out a suspension for violating the NFL’s performance enhancing drug policy.

Now back with the team, Sweat is poised to be active in Week 8 against the Seattle Seahawks. But before stepping foot back on the gridiron, the Bears veteran wanted to explain his side of the situation, via Courtney Cronin of ESPN.

“It definitely was accidental,” Sweat said. “It was a surprise. But you take a lick on the chin and keep moving forward.”

“I take the responsibility full upon myself,” he continued. “It was nothing with the nutritional staff here or the training staff here. It was things I was doing on my own. Yeah, take that on the chin and move forward.”

Sweat didn’t divulge exactly what led to the suspension, instead opting to quickly move past his two-game absence. Still, the pass rusher didn’t shy away from criticism and is now ready to return to the Bears.

Chicago Bears welcome Montez Sweat back

In terms of Sweat’s future with the franchise, his suspension will throw a wrench into things. There are no more guarantees on his contract, making it much easier for Chicago to release him. For now though, the Bears are focused on how the defensive end can help their lofty playoff goals.

Through his first five games in 2026, Sweat put up seven tackles, four quarterback hits and two sacks. As evident by his 55.9 grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking 90/112 edge rushers, he hasn’t necessarily lived up to the hype. However, the Bears know Sweat can be a pivotal source of pressure. He had 10 sacks and 18 quarterback hits in 2025.

With his injury now behind him, Chicago is counting on the veteran to return to that form. If he can, the Bears will only be a much scarier opponent.

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

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