Bears Reportedly Not Pursuing Top Linemen Targets

Adam Schefter downplays rumors of Bears interest in Maxx Crosby, Trey Hendrickson, and Tyler Linderbaum

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Chicago Bears are not actively pursuing top offensive and defensive linemen targets like Maxx Crosby, Trey Hendrickson, and Tyler Linderbaum in free agency. Schefter said the asking price for Crosby may be too high, Hendrickson is unlikely to land in Chicago, and Linderbaum is too expensive for the Bears' current salary cap situation.

Why it matters

The Bears are expected to be major players in free agency this offseason as they look to rebuild their roster, so Schefter's comments pour cold water on some of the biggest names they've been linked to. This could mean the Bears turn their attention to more affordable options on the offensive and defensive lines.

The details

Schefter appeared on a local Chicago radio show and provided updates on the Bears' potential free agent targets. He said he's not convinced Crosby will be traded from the Raiders, and even if he is, the Bears may not be able to afford him. Schefter also stated there are no ties between the Bears and Hendrickson, while Linderbaum is likely too expensive given Chicago's salary cap constraints. Instead, the Bears could look to more budget-friendly options like Tyler Biadasz and Lloyd Cushenberry III to address their needs on the offensive line.

  • The Bears recently traded wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick, signaling they are open to making moves this offseason.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who has been linked to the Bears in free agency rumors.

Trey Hendrickson

A defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals who was rumored to be a potential target for the Bears.

Tyler Linderbaum

A center prospect from the 2022 NFL Draft who was speculated as a possible Bears target, but may be too expensive for their current salary cap situation.

Adam Schefter

An ESPN NFL reporter who provided updates on the Bears' free agent plans during a local radio interview.

Tyler Biadasz

A center for the Dallas Cowboys who could be a more affordable option for the Bears to address their needs on the offensive line.

Lloyd Cushenberry III

A center for the Denver Broncos who could also be a potential target for the Bears to bolster their offensive line.

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What they’re saying

“He said that while he is not convinced that Crosby gets dealt, if he does, then the Bears are in the driver's seat.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN NFL Reporter (Waddle and Silvy)

“He also said that there are no ties between the Bears and Trey Hendrickson.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN NFL Reporter (Waddle and Silvy)

“Linderbaum is too expensive, and instead, Tyler Biadasz and Lloyd Cushenberry III could be better options.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN NFL Reporter (Waddle and Silvy)

What’s next

The Bears will need to continue exploring more affordable options on the offensive and defensive lines as they look to rebuild their roster this offseason.

The takeaway

While the Bears were rumored to be interested in high-profile linemen like Crosby, Hendrickson, and Linderbaum, Adam Schefter's comments suggest the team may need to adjust its free agent strategy and focus on more budget-friendly targets to address their needs up front.