In a move to strengthen their pass rush, the Chicago Bears acquired linebacker Darrell Taylor from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick. Taylor, a 2020 second-round pick, missed his rookie season due to a leg fracture but has since experienced success as an edge rusher with 21.5 sacks in 49 games played.
Coach’s Excitement
Bears head coach, Matt Eberflus, expressed his enthusiasm for adding Taylor to the roster, citing his sack production and pass-rushing ability as valuable assets that align well with the team’s defensive scheme. The acquisition of Taylor comes after the Bears‘ pursuit of another linebacker, Matthew Judon, fell through due to contract negotiations.
Taylor was set to earn $3.116 million in base salary for the upcoming season, a figure that the Seahawks were unwilling to pay for a situational edge rusher. Despite his success as a pass rusher, Taylor’s ability to defend the run has been questioned, leading to his designation as a restricted free agent earlier this year.
While Eberflus commended the efforts of the Bears‘ defensive line during training camp, the team remains focused on enhancing their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks. With the lowest sack percentage and second-fewest sacks in the league last season, Chicago recognizes the importance of upgrading their pass rush.
Trade Activity
The trade for Taylor marks the second transaction made by Seahawks general manager John Schneider in as many days, following the deal that sent cornerback Michael Jackson to the Carolina Panthers. With approximately $8.5 million in cap space remaining after the trade, Seattle has positioned themselves for future roster moves.
The addition of Darrell Taylor to the Chicago Bears‘ defense is a strategic move aimed at boosting the team’s pass rush and overall defensive efficiency. With a proven track record as a sack producer, Taylor brings a valuable skill set to the Bears‘ lineup as they look to address deficiencies from the previous season.
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