The Colts Are Officially Selling

The Indianapolis Colts have made it clear that they are moving in a different direction, and the Chicago Bears should take advantage of the opportunity.

After starting the season 2-5, Indianapolis has begun moving on from some of its biggest names, trading 8 time Pro Bowl guard Quenton Nelson to Seattle and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to San Francisco.

With the Colts looking toward the future, veteran defensive tackle Grover Stewart has emerged as another potential trade candidate.

For a Bears team that desperately needs help along its defensive line, Stewart could be exactly the type of addition Chicago needs.

Stewart Would Immediately Improve Chicago’s Defensive Line

The Bears have struggled to establish consistency along their defensive front, making defensive tackle an important position to address before the November 10 trade deadline.

Stewart would bring experience, physicality, and a proven ability to stop the run.

Through 7 games in 2026, Stewart has recorded 22 tackles and half a sack for Indianapolis.

While those numbers might not jump off the page, his impact goes beyond traditional statistics.

In 2024, Stewart recorded a career high 74 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks while starting all 17 games.

At 33 years old, Stewart remains an experienced interior defender who can occupy blockers and make life difficult for opposing running backs.

Chicago does not necessarily need another defensive tackle who produces double digit sacks. It needs someone who can control the line of scrimmage and help the defense get off the field.

Stewart could provide exactly that.

Indianapolis Has Every Reason to Listen to Offers

Following the departures of Nelson and Buckner, it is becoming increasingly clear that Indianapolis is prioritizing its future.

The Colts received a 2027 third round pick and a 2028 fifth round pick for Nelson, while Buckner was moved for a 2027 fourth round selection.

Stewart is playing in the final season of a three year, $39 million contract signed in 2024.

With unrestricted free agency approaching in 2027, Indianapolis risks losing him without receiving direct trade compensation.

Rather than letting another veteran potentially leave, the Colts could continue collecting draft picks to help rebuild their roster.

For Chicago, this creates an opportunity to acquire a proven defensive lineman without necessarily committing to a long term contract.

Chicago Cannot Ignore Its Defensive Line

If the Bears want to compete with the best teams in the NFC, improving their defensive front must become a priority.

Stewart would give Chicago another physical presence in the middle while helping take pressure off the rest of the defensive line.

His ability to defend the run could also create more favorable situations for Chicago’s pass rushers.

The Bears have invested heavily in building their offense around Caleb Williams, but winning meaningful games late in the season requires a defense capable of making stops.

Adding Stewart would be a step toward addressing that need.

Ryan Poles Needs to Make the Call

I believe Stewart is one of the more realistic trade targets Chicago should pursue.

He might not be the biggest name available, but he addresses an obvious weakness without requiring the Bears to chase another expensive superstar.

The biggest concern is his age and expiring contract.

Chicago should not sacrifice valuable draft capital for a potential short term rental.

However, if Indianapolis is willing to accept a reasonable offer, general manager Ryan Poles should seriously consider making the move.

The Colts are looking toward the future. The Bears should be focused on winning now.

And adding Grover Stewart could help Chicago get one step closer to becoming a legitimate NFC contender.