CHICAGO — Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat is under renewed scrutiny as analysts label his four-year, $96 million contract a major misstep following a disappointing 2024 performance.
Originally acquired via trade in 2023, Sweat entered the season with high expectations to anchor the Bears’ pass rush. However, NFL analysts and fans alike are questioning whether his $24.5 million annual salary is justified, especially after registering just 5.5 sacks, 9 tackles for loss, and 12 quarterback hits over 16 games in 2024.
NFL Analyst Flags Sweat’s Contract as One of League’s Worst
In a recent breakdown of the NFL’s most problematic contracts, FanSided’s Lou Scataglia called the Bears’ deal with Sweat one of the league’s biggest liabilities heading into the 2025 season. While acknowledging that Sweat is a solid player, Scataglia emphasized that most fans likely don’t realize just how expensive his deal is relative to his statistical output, stating:
“Sweat is a very good player, but I bet you had no idea he’s getting paid nearly $25 million per year… it’s not been [GM Ryan Poles’] best move.” (BearGogglesOn)
Statistical Profile: Does Sweat Deserve the Criticism?
Despite the criticism, Montez Sweat’s full performance over his time with the Bears tells a slightly more complex story. Since arriving in Chicago, Sweat has:
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Played 25 games
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Recorded 11.5 sacks
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Tallied 26 QB hits
His 2023 campaign — split between the Commanders and the Bears — was a career highlight, with 12.5 total sacks, making him the first player in NFL history to lead two teams in sacks in the same season.
Critics argue that his 2024 dip in productivity doesn’t justify his elite salary tier. However, defenders of the contract point to the intangible benefits he brings — such as drawing double teams that free up opportunities for teammates.
Bears Bolster D-Line for 2025, Hoping for a Rebound
In an effort to unlock Sweat’s full potential, the Bears have revamped their defensive line this offseason:
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Free agent additions: Dayo Odeyingbo and Grady Jarrett
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NFL Draft: Shemar Turner selected in the second round
The hope is that these additions will prevent opponents from focusing solely on Sweat, allowing him to return to double-digit sack form in 2025.
High Expectations, High Stakes
While Montez Sweat still holds the potential to dominate, the pressure is clearly mounting. Another sub-6-sack season in 2025 could turn questions into full-blown regret for the Bears’ front office and fans alike.
“Another season with under six sacks and it might be time to hit the panic button,” BearGogglesOn concluded in its analysis.
Do you think Montez Sweat can bounce back in 2025 and live up to his contract? Should the Bears reconsider their long-term investment? Drop your thoughts in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
