How Montez Sweat suspension affects Chicago Bears’ 2027 plans

Imagn Images

How Montez Sweat suspension affects Chicago Bears’ 2027 plans

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Dan Fappiano | Last updated Oct 14, 2026 2:26 PM ET

The Chicago Bears will be without Montez Sweat over their next two games after he was suspended for violating the NFL’s Performance Enhancing Drug Policy. In their immediate future, the Bears are solely focused on earning a pair of wins. But when Chicago truly evaluates their roster, that suspension could be more impactful than initially thought.

While the Bears enter Week 6 ranked ninth in total defense, allowing 311.4 yards per game, there have been some noticeable flaws. Twice Chicago has allowed 30+ points, including to their rival Green Bay Packers in Week 5. For all the heights the offense can reach when fully healthy, the defense hasn’t been able to consistently match that level of play.

As for Sweat, he has put up seven tackles, five quarterback hits and two sacks through the first five weeks. His 55.9 grade from Pro Football Focus ranks 81/106 edge rushers.

Sweat has done a lot of good for the Bears. But Chicago may opt to completely revamp their pass rush situation over the offseason. Sweat’s suspension now makes that a bit easier.

Chicago Bears’ Montez Sweat faces costly suspension

Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat (98) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

In the immediate aftermath of the suspension, Sweat will lose $2.3 million of his 2026 salary. But long-term, there are no more guarantees on the defensive tackle’s contract, via Michael Ginnitti of Spotrac.

“Bears DE Montez Sweat will forfeit $2.3M of 2026 salary per his 2-game suspension for violating the league’s PED policy,” Ginnitti wrote. “Additionally, the $12.7M remaining on Sweat’s 2026 salary is now unsecured, as the PED suspension voided all future guarantees. Sweat is due a non-guaranteed $21M in 2027.”

The fact Sweat’s contract is now non-guaranteed makes it much easier for Chicago to move on. If designated a post June 1 cut, he would cost the Bears just over $4 million in dead cap. And they’d have an extra $21 million to rebiuld their line with.

Sweat has been with the Bears since 2023, so it may not be the easiest of cuts. But at least financially, there is a clear path Chicago could take if they want to move on.

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

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