Bears Eyeing DE Maxx Crosby in Free Agency

Chicago looking to bolster defensive line with top pass rusher

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Chicago Bears are reportedly interested in signing free agent defensive end Maxx Crosby this offseason. Crosby, one of the top pass rushers available, could provide a major boost to the Bears' defensive line as they look to improve on a 6-10 season.

Why it matters

The Bears had just 33 sacks last season, ranking 27th in the NFL. Adding an elite edge rusher like Crosby could transform their defense and make them a more formidable team in the NFC North.

The details

Crosby, 25, is coming off a season with the Las Vegas Raiders where he recorded 12.5 sacks and made the Pro Bowl. He is expected to command a lucrative multi-year contract in free agency, but the Bears have the salary cap space to potentially outbid other suitors.

  • The 2023 NFL free agency period begins on March 15.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A 25-year-old defensive end who has emerged as one of the top pass rushers in the NFL after being a fourth-round draft pick by the Raiders in 2019.

Chicago Bears

An NFL franchise based in Chicago, Illinois that plays in the NFC North division.

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What they’re saying

“Crosby would be a perfect fit for the Bears' defense and could really take them to the next level.”

— Leila Rahimi, Sports Analyst, The Score (Chicago Sports Tonight)

What’s next

The Bears will need to act quickly once free agency opens on March 15 if they hope to sign Crosby, as he is expected to draw significant interest from multiple teams.

The takeaway

Signing Maxx Crosby would be a major coup for the Bears as they look to rebuild their defense and become a contender in the NFC North. His elite pass rushing ability could transform their entire unit.