This summer, the Chicago Bears should make three transactions that might change the game.

As the Chicago Bears approach the summer months in preparation for the 2025 NFL season, they have an opportunity to transform their team and make moves that could help propel them from mediocrity to playoff contention. With the organization struggling in recent years, the summer of 2025 presents a critical juncture for the franchise. Chicago has a solid foundation with emerging stars like quarterback Justin Fields, but there is still work to be done to ensure the team is competitive in a loaded NFC.

This article will examine three key transactions the Bears should consider this summer—moves that could reshape the franchise, elevate their competitive stature, and place them on a more promising trajectory for the upcoming season. These potential moves—whether in free agency, the trade market, or through the draft—could change the game for the Bears and set them up for long-term success.

1. Trade for a Premier Wide Receiver

For much of the 2023 and 2024 seasons, the Bears struggled to provide Justin Fields with adequate weapons on the outside. Fields’ development as a passer has been hindered by a lack of dynamic, reliable wide receivers, which has stunted the offense’s growth and ability to compete against high-powered teams in the NFC. While the Bears did invest in some talent in the receiver room, such as Darnell Mooney and Chase Claypool, they need an elite playmaker to elevate their offense and truly give Fields a chance to thrive.

The Situation:

The Bears’ current receiving corps lacks a true No. 1 wide receiver who can take over games and consistently make big plays. While Mooney has shown flashes of potential, and Claypool has the physical tools to be a game-changer, neither player has proven to be a consistent force. The Bears need a top-tier wideout who can create separation, stretch the field, and be a security blanket for Fields when the offense struggles.

The Solution:

This summer, the Bears should make a trade for a premier wide receiver—someone who can not only be a reliable target for Fields but also command respect from opposing defenses. There are a few candidates in the trade market who could fit the bill:

1. DeAndre Hopkins (Arizona Cardinals): Despite being in the twilight of his career, Hopkins remains one of the most reliable and skilled receivers in the NFL. His route running, hands, and ability to make clutch catches in key situations are attributes that the Bears desperately need. A trade for Hopkins could provide an immediate upgrade to the Bears’ receiving corps, as he would give Fields a proven go-to target who can make plays on both short and long passes.
2. Keenan Allen (Los Angeles Chargers): Another experienced wide receiver, Allen, has been a key part of the Chargers’ offense for years. He may not be in the prime of his career, but Allen remains one of the league’s best route runners and possession receivers. His ability to get open consistently and create mismatches would be a game-changer for Chicago’s offense.
3. DJ Moore (Carolina Panthers): Moore is a younger option who would provide Fields with a dynamic and explosive playmaker. Moore has consistently put up impressive numbers with inconsistent quarterback play in Carolina, and a move to a team like the Bears could help him take his game to the next level. His deep-threat ability and big-play potential would allow the Bears’ offense to stretch the field and diversify their attack.

Impact:

Adding an elite wide receiver to Fields’ arsenal would instantly improve the offense. It would open up the playbook, give Fields a reliable target in key situations, and allow the Bears to become more aggressive in their passing game. A player like Hopkins or Moore would stretch the field, helping the running game as well and giving Chicago an explosive offensive weapon that opposing defenses would have to account for every week.

2. Sign a Veteran Cornerback in Free Agency

The Bears’ defense has been solid in recent years, but it has often lacked the ability to make game-changing plays when needed. The secondary, in particular, has been a weak point, as Chicago has struggled to defend against high-powered passing attacks. The cornerback position, in particular, has been an area of concern, with players like Jaylon Johnson showing flashes of promise but struggling with consistency.

In 2025, the Bears should target a veteran cornerback in free agency to bolster their secondary and help shore up the defense. A seasoned corner who has experience playing against top-tier wide receivers can help Chicago’s young corners grow and allow the defense to perform at a higher level.

The Situation:

Chicago’s cornerbacks have been inconsistent at best in recent years. While Johnson has shown that he has the potential to be a top-tier corner, there hasn’t been much help opposite him. The Bears need a reliable No. 2 cornerback who can cover top receivers and provide stability to the secondary.

The Solution:

Several veteran cornerbacks could be available in free agency who would be a strong addition to the Bears’ defense:

1. James Bradberry (Philadelphia Eagles): Bradberry has been one of the most consistent cornerbacks in the league over the past several years, playing at a high level for both the New York Giants and the Eagles. His size, athleticism, and ball skills would complement Johnson’s playmaking ability and make Chicago’s secondary much tougher to beat.
2. J.C. Jackson (Los Angeles Chargers): After a strong start to his career with the New England Patriots, Jackson has struggled to find consistency with the Chargers. Still, his potential remains high. A change of scenery could help Jackson regain his form, and his ball-hawking ability would make him an excellent addition to the Bears’ defense.
3. Patrick Peterson (Minnesota Vikings): While Peterson is nearing the end of his career, he has still shown that he can play at a high level. His leadership and experience would be invaluable for Chicago’s young corners, and his ability to cover top receivers could be just what the Bears need.

Impact:

Signing a veteran cornerback like Bradberry or Jackson would provide a huge boost to Chicago’s defense. It would improve the secondary, allowing the Bears to better match up against the league’s best wide receivers and take pressure off their pass rush. The presence of a reliable veteran corner would also help Johnson develop his skills further, while creating a more balanced and effective defensive unit overall.

3. Trade for an Offensive Lineman

The Bears’ offensive line has been a long-standing issue, particularly in pass protection. While Fields is a mobile quarterback who can extend plays with his legs, the Bears need to give him better protection upfront to allow him to develop into a true franchise quarterback. The offensive line has struggled with consistency, and it’s been one of the key reasons why the offense hasn’t been able to fully unlock its potential.

The Situation:

Despite efforts to improve the offensive line, the Bears still have several weak spots in their line that need to be addressed. In particular, the interior offensive line and the right tackle position have been sources of constant pressure on Fields. If the Bears want to make a serious playoff push in 2025, they need to improve their offensive line to give Fields the time and protection he needs to thrive.

The Solution:

This summer, the Bears should look to acquire an offensive lineman through trade. There are a few players on the trade block who could help shore up the offensive line:

1. Laremy Tunsil (Houston Texans): Tunsil is one of the best left tackles in the NFL, and he could provide immediate stability to the Bears’ offensive line. His ability to protect the quarterback’s blindside would be a huge asset for Fields and could improve the overall performance of the offensive line.
2. Andre Dillard (Philadelphia Eagles): Dillard, who has been a backup for most of his career, could be a solid option for Chicago. He has starting experience and is an agile and skilled tackle who could help solidify the Bears’ line.
3. David Montgomery (Detroit Lions): Montgomery is not only a talented running back, but the Bears could explore adding an offensive lineman from the trade market as a potential move that complements their long-term vision for the offensive line.

Impact:

Adding a top-tier offensive lineman would be one of the most significant moves the Bears could make this summer. It would provide immediate protection for Fields and allow him to progress as a passer. Additionally, a stronger offensive line would enhance the Bears’ running game, taking pressure off Fields and creating a more balanced offensive attack. Solidifying the line should be a priority for the Bears, and acquiring a top-tier lineman via trade could be a game-changing move.

A Summer of Change for the Chicago Bears

The summer of 2025 represents a critical opportunity for the Chicago Bears to make moves that will significantly impact their future. By trading for a premier wide receiver, signing a veteran cornerback, and acquiring an offensive lineman, the Bears can improve on both sides of the ball and provide Justin Fields with the tools he needs to succeed.

These three transactions would not only address the team’s most glaring weaknesses but also position the Bears to compete in the NFC and make a serious push for the playoffs. The front office and coaching staff have the chance to make smart, calculated moves this summer—moves that could change the trajectory of the franchise for years to come.

If the Bears execute these transactions successfully, the 2025 season could be a turning point in their long-awaited return to playoff contention.