The Bearsā quiet trade for Garrett Bradbury might not be the big move fans expected ā but it could actually set up something much bigger. šš„
Bearsā Garrett Bradbury Trade Could Open Door for Maxx Crosby Blockbuster
The Chicago Bearsā trade for center Garrett Bradbury may look like a minor move on the surface, but it could actually pave the way for a major blockbuster deal.
Chicago acquired Bradbury from the New England Patriots for a 2027 fifth-round pick, filling the sudden hole left by Drew Dalmanās retirement.
But the modest price and relatively low salary could signal something bigger.
Bradbury Deal Leaves Cap Space Open
Bradbury is set to earn only about $4.7 million in 2026, making him an affordable addition.
Thatās important because Chicago recently cleared significant salary cap space through multiple moves:
- Trading WR DJ Moore to the Bills
- Releasing LB Tremaine Edmunds
- Dalmanās unexpected retirement
Those changes freed roughly $45 million in cap space, leaving the Bears with about $32 million available, with potential for even more through contract restructures.
Maxx Crosby Rumors Continue to Build
With that new financial flexibility, speculation has intensified about the Bears making a push for Las Vegas Raiders star pass rusher Maxx Crosby.
Crosby is currently under a three-year, $106.5 million contract and is scheduled to earn close to $36 million in 2026.
If Chicago wants to make a blockbuster move, they now have the financial room to pursue it.
Why the Bradbury Move Matters
Some analysts have questioned the Bradbury trade because his recent performance hasnāt been elite.
His recent center rankings have slipped:
- 2022: 10th among centers
- 2023: 31st
- 2024: 33rd
- 2025: 30th
But the trade cost very little and doesnāt limit Chicagoās ability to make bigger moves.
That may have been the real point.
The Bigger Plan in Chicago
Head coach Ben Johnson and general manager Ryan Poles appear focused on building around quarterback Caleb Williams.
If Bradbury becomes the starting center, the Bears could still pursue upgrades elsewhere ā especially on the defensive line.
Thatās where someone like Maxx Crosby could become a game-changing addition.
What Happens Next
The NFLās legal tampering period begins soon, and Chicago could still make more moves.
Possible next steps for the Bears:
- Add another offensive lineman
- Invest heavily in the defensive line
- Explore a blockbuster trade for Crosby
If that happens, the Bradbury deal may end up looking like the first step in a much bigger offseason plan.
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