Bears Host 24-Sack Pass Rusher for Visit Amid Urgent Defensive Need
Bears Host 24-Sack Pass Rusher for Visit Amid Urgent Defensive Need
Bears Host 24-Sack Pass Rusher for Visit Amid Urgent Defensive Need
Chicago, IL – March 2026
The Chicago Bears entered the offseason with one of the most pressing defensive issues in the league. A lack of consistent pass rush that severely limited their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
After finishing the 2025 season with just 35 sacks and ranking near the bottom of the NFL in pressure rate, the need to upgrade the edge position has become a top priority for the organization.
That urgency is now driving immediate action.
With multiple veteran pass rushers still available on the market, the Bears have shifted focus toward cost-effective options who can provide immediate impact without long-term financial commitment.
One name has quickly emerged as a realistic target.
According to league sources, the Bears have hosted veteran edge rusher A.J. Epenesa for a visit following the collapse of his previously reported deal with the Cleveland Browns.
Epenesa re-entered the market after the Browns backed out of a one-year agreement due to concerns following his physical. Despite that setback, his production and durability history continue to make him an intriguing option.
Across his NFL career, Epenesa has recorded 24 sacks, 53 quarterback hits, and 29 tackles for loss over 91 games, showing consistent ability to generate pressure as part of a rotation.
From a financial standpoint, the situation remains complicated for Chicago. With extremely limited cap space, the Bears are expected to pursue a short-term, team-friendly deal if negotiations advance.
Internally, the visit is viewed as a low-risk evaluation rather than a guaranteed signing. The coaching staff is believed to be assessing both his health status and potential fit within a transitioning defensive scheme.
For the Bears, the approach is clear. Address the need, scan the market, manage the cap, and act when opportunity presents itself.
And with the draft approaching, every move now carries added urgency.
