Could the Chicago Bears Seek a Reunion With a Former Pro Bowl Pass Rusher?
With free agency approaching, NFL teams are starting to examine all possible options to strengthen their roster. In Chicago, the rumor mill is heating up, and one familiar name is back in the spotlight. As the Bears look to build on recent momentum and strengthen their defense, speculation has begun about a potential reunion with a former Pro Bowl pass rusher. Could bringing back a franchise icon be the move that helps elevate this unit to the next level?
News about Khalil Mack has been fairly quiet so far, as the 34-year-old is contemplating retirement. After playing for 12 seasons, there is not much more that he could accomplish. Additionally, his body has faced a lot of wear and tear. This makes the possibility of retirement even more realistic if he looks to preserve his health. However, there have been rumors stirring about a potential return to Chicago for Mack.
One of the reasons for a return to Chicago could be his desire to join a contending team. His list of awards and honors is something many players would wish for. This includes making the Pro Bowl nine times and being named an All-Pro three times. The biggest accomplishment for the former first-round pick was winning Defensive Player of the Year in 2016. Statistically speaking, in his career, he has 113 sacks and 36 forced fumbles. Despite all the individual achievements, he has yet to win a Super Bowl.
This past season, Chicago took the league by storm and proved itself as a competitive team. Adding a player like Mack would help push the team to the next level, as it would solve one of their biggest weaknesses. In 2025, the Bears recorded only 35 sacks. The lack of pressure contributed to the team allowing the fourth-most yards per game and the 10th-most points per game. Despite only playing in 12 games this past season, the 12-year veteran recorded five and a half sacks and four forced fumbles. They may not be as elite as in past years, but it would still bring a much-needed presence to the Bears' defense.
Outside of the boost he would give the defense, many fans would welcome him back to Chicago with open arms. When the Bears traded for him in 2018, it was a massive deal that helped transform the team into a playoff contender. The success following that season was not as good, but Mack still left a lasting impact. In four years, he recorded 36 sacks and 14 forced fumbles. Without him, the magical year in 2018 may not have been possible.
As free agency draws closer, the possibility of a reunion between the Bears and Mack presents both risk and reward. While age and durability are fair concerns, his experience, leadership, and proven ability to disrupt offenses could provide the exact spark Chicago’s defense needs. Beyond the stat sheet, his return would symbolize unfinished business for both sides, which is a chance to chase the one achievement that has eluded him. If the Bears are serious about contending, bringing back a franchise icon might not just be a sentimental move, but a strategic one.
