Bears get exciting offseason rumor on Maxx Crosby, Trey Hendrickson

The Chicago Bears are looking to return to the playoffs next season after winning the NFC North in 2025. Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams have the offense functioning at a high level, and the skill players and offensive line are strong.

But the defensive side of the ball needs some work. While there are multiple DBs hitting free agency, if the Bears can re-sign one or multiple of those players, they will be in a great spot. However, the team still will need a big improvement at the pass rusher.

According to a rumor from ESPN's Courtney Cronin, both Trey Hendrickson (free agent) and Maxx Crosby (trade) are players who are expected to be linked to the Bears this offseason as realistic options to improve the pass rush.

Bears linked to Hendrickson, Crosby for pass rush help

"Names such as Crosby, who seems headed for a divorce with the Raiders, and Hendrickson, who is a free agent, will be linked to the Bears ahead of free agency," Cronin writes. "Chicago could also add via the draft with the 25th pick."

Seeing both Hendrickson and Crosby linked to the Bears is very exciting. The Bears need to add to their pass rush rumor, as Montez Sweat and the current crop of linemen aren't good enough to get pressure.

Having a good pass rush is a must in today's NFL, and adding someone like Crosby or Hendrickson would be a great way to improve the unit.

More: Bears' list of 2026 NFL draft picks, free agents and cap space going into offseason

Of the two, Hendrickson will be a lot easier to acquire. He's set to be a free agent, and after an injury-shortened 2025 season, the Bears might be able to sign him on a discount.

The same cannot be said for Crosby, who is one of the more highly valued players in the NFL, and the Raiders will be asking for a king's ransom in return for him.

One potential deal for Crosby could be DJ Moore and a 1st round pick. It would give the Raiders a good wide receiver and some valuable draft capital.

But, regardless of what the price might actually be, the Bears would be forced to give up a fortune to acquire someone like Crosby. They're going to be linked to him this offseason, and it would be a very fun addition if Poles could make it work.

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