Blockbuster Trade Pitch Lands Bears $112 Million DE for Godfather Haul
Could Chicago Finally Be Turning the Corner?
In what could go down as one of the most aggressive trade pitches in recent NFL memory, the Chicago Bears are rumored to be in serious talks to land a $112 million superstar defensive end in a blockbuster deal dubbed by insiders as a “Godfather Haul.” If this deal goes through, it would send shockwaves throughout the league, signaling the Bears’ readiness to build an elite defense and challenge the NFC North hierarchy. The prized target? None other than Cleveland Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett, one of the most dominant pass rushers of the modern era.
Garrett, a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-Team All-Pro, is coming off yet another monster season that saw him post 14 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, and a league-leading 87 pressures. The 28-year-old is currently in the midst of a five-year, $125 million extension signed in 2020, of which $112 million remains. Given his consistent production and freak athleticism, it’s no wonder why he’s been the subject of trade buzz despite being the cornerstone of the Browns’ defense.
The Bears’ Vision: Immediate Contention
Chicago has been methodically rebuilding under GM Ryan Poles. With promising talent on offense — including newly acquired wide receiver Keenan Allen and DJ Moore, and potentially Caleb Williams waiting to be drafted with the No. 1 overall pick — it appears the front office is shifting its attention to defense. Adding Garrett would be the kind of all-in move that announces to the league: “We’re ready to win now.”
With their treasure chest of draft picks — including two first-rounders in 2025 — and a top-10 cap space position, the Bears are one of the few teams that can afford to not only pay Garrett’s enormous contract but also meet Cleveland’s asking price.
The “Godfather Haul” Offer
Sources close to the negotiations suggest the Bears have pitched a package that includes:
- 2025 First-Round Pick (via Carolina)
- 2025 Second-Round Pick
- Star CB Jaylon Johnson
- A 2026 Third-Round Conditional Pick
This trade would be monumental, stripping Chicago of some valuable future assets and a young defensive cornerstone in Johnson, who just inked a new deal of his own. But insiders believe Chicago is banking on the idea that Garrett’s impact will be immediate and transformative.
From a pass-rushing standpoint, the Bears finished in the bottom tier of the NFL last season. Despite improvements in other areas, their inability to generate pressure consistently was a glaring weakness. Garrett’s presence would not only improve their sack totals but also create more opportunities for takeaways and pressure-based turnovers, giving their new-look offense more possessions.
Cleveland’s Motivation: Rebuild or Reload?
On the surface, it’s hard to imagine the Browns parting with Garrett. But rumors out of Cleveland suggest that internal tensions — perhaps philosophical disagreements with new defensive staff or concerns about long-term cap flexibility — could be at play. The Browns also face uncertainty at quarterback, with Deshaun Watson’s health and performance still in question.
The Godfather haul would allow Cleveland to reboot key areas. Jaylon Johnson is a top-10 cornerback entering his prime and would immediately bolster their secondary. The two premium picks could be used to draft a QB successor or bolster the offensive line and defensive front. In many ways, it’s a high-risk, high-reward strategy — one that leans into flexibility over long-term financial strain.
League Reaction: Shock, Awe, and Caution
As expected, NFL analysts and fans were stunned when news of the potential trade leaked. “This is not a drill,” one anonymous executive reportedly said. “If Chicago pulls this off, they’re instantly one of the scariest defenses in the league.”
However, not everyone is sold. Critics argue that giving up a cornerstone cornerback and multiple high picks could leave the Bears thin in depth for years to come. NFL Network’s Kyle Brandt called it “a desperation play for a team that’s still figuring itself out.”
Still, most agree that landing Myles Garrett would be a game-changer. Pair him with rising linebacker Tremaine Edmunds and suddenly the Bears’ front seven becomes terrifying. It’s reminiscent of the Khalil Mack trade in 2018, which instantly vaulted Chicago into playoff contention.
Financial Fallout: Worth the Price?
Garrett’s contract will carry a cap hit north of $25 million annually, but Chicago’s flexibility makes the deal feasible. By 2026, with TV money increasing and the salary cap expected to skyrocket, Garrett’s deal may even look like a bargain relative to future edge rusher contracts.
Ryan Poles has made it clear he’s not afraid to swing big. His acquisition of Montez Sweat midseason in 2023 was the first sign of his long-term vision. Bringing in Garrett would be a continuation of that aggressive strategy — and one that could finally bring the Bears back to relevance.
What Comes Next?
At the time of writing, sources suggest the deal is 70% finalized, with only minor language and salary adjustments being negotiated. If the trade becomes official before the draft, expect Chicago to turn its full attention to surrounding their new franchise QB with offensive line help and maybe even another tight end weapon.
For Cleveland, fans may be bracing for the worst — losing a generational talent is never easy. But the incoming haul would provide much-needed capital to retool quickly, especially in a competitive AFC North.
Final Thoughts
Blockbuster trades are rare in the NFL, especially ones involving top-3 defensive players in their prime. If the Bears truly land Myles Garrett, they’re not just adding a star — they’re redefining the identity of their team.
From rebuilding to reloading, Chicago may be entering a new era. And if this deal becomes official, they’ll have made the loudest statement of the 2025 offseason.
Stay tuned. The Monsters of the Midway might finally be back.
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