Chicago Bears predicted to sign game changing edge rusher in 2026 NFL free agency

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Eric Root | Last updated Feb 11, 2026 10:31 PM ET

With free agency being just around the corner for the NFL, the Chicago Bears will be looking to fill some much needed holes for their defensive front.

Despite having an incredible 2025 season, Chicago has a lot to improve on. Specifically, the pass rush needs major improvement.

As everyone knows, the Bears’ defensive line underperformed in 2025. The lack of pass rush was a key weakness for the team throughout the season. Fox Sports’ Greg Gauman has predicted that the top defensive player in 2026’s free agent class will be signing with Chicago.

Trey Hendrickson is predicted to sign with the Chicago Bears in 2026

Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) celebrates a stop in the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 18 game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025. The Bengals won 19-17 to finish the regular season at 9-8.

Gauman listed the Bengals edge rusher as the fourth best available player among the 2026 free agent class and predicts he will sign with the Bears.

What are potential landing spots for the top NFL free agents?@gregauman made his predictions

Read more: https://t.co/XqSVK3MVDZ pic.twitter.com/CR5jtFglaR

— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) February 11, 2026

After having a lackluster 2025, Hendrickson is expected to leave the Bengals following contract issues the previous offseason and following a core muscle surgery.

Hendrickson has been listed by many as a potential fit for the Bears since last offseason. It was also reported that general manager Ryan Poles checked in on the availability for the Bengals star during the 2025 trade deadline.

Is Trey Hendrickson worth the investment?

Trey Hendrickson celebrates a defensive stop – Credit: Albert Cesare / The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The four time Pro Bowl edge rusher would be an instant game changer to Dennis Allen’s defense. Due to his letdown season in 2025, the Bears might be able to snag Hendrickson for a cheaper deal than expected.

Another positive for signing Hendrickson is that the team won’t have to spend draft capital by trading for a pass rusher. Chicago could then have a pass rush consisting of Hendrickson, Montez Sweat, and potentially the 25th overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.

The Bears must do something big to fix their pass rush in 2026. If the team can do that, their chances at being a Super Bowl contender could skyrocket.