The 2026 Chicago Bears have been as successful as many had hoped. Despite being in a tough division, they are one of the league's top teams. Chicago is 6-2 and riding a three-game winning streak. The current roster has shown promise, but with the trade deadline coming up on November 10th, they could fill some remaining holes. No move will be as big as the trade for Jeffery Simmons. Simmons has already proven to be a difference-maker. If Chicago wishes to bolster their defense, a few names are worth watching.
Nahshon Wright
Chicago's biggest weakness is clear; the secondary has been torn apart. Every game, it feels like an opposing receiver breaks free for a long score. There seems to be very little communication and a lot of blown coverages. Right now, it is hard to trust the current options. Malik Muhammad has been one of the biggest breakout surprises, but that's about it. Finding a true difference-maker in the trade market is difficult. However, they could consider a familiar option.
Nahshon Wright perfectly defined the Bears' defense last season. He allowed big plays but excelled at taking the ball away. Wright left for the Jets over the offseason as Chicago rebuilt their secondary. The 28-year-old cornerback hasn’t repeated the success. He only appeared in three games in 2026. A reunion with the Bears has been rumored, and it may not cost more than a late-round pick. He isn’t elite but could be a solid rotational piece.
Riq Woolen
Another intriguing option to bolster the secondary is Riq Woolen, whose combination of imposing physicality, elite athleticism, and proven coverage ability made him a formidable presence in Seattle’s defensive backfield. This past offseason, Woolen signed a one-year deal with the Eagles, hoping to rebuild his market. It has been a solid year, but Philadelphia has had a rough season. They could look to stock up on draft picks, even if it's only around the fourth round. The 27-year-old is athletic and tracks the ball well while it's in the air. He is a stronger talent than Wright and could slot in as a starter. It isn’t the flashiest trade, but it would strengthen the secondary.
Khalil Mack
Chicago already made a big splash on the defensive line by trading for Simmons. However, they may not be done. The Bears have been linked to Khalil Mack for a few weeks. He was the defensive leader while playing in Chicago. The Chargers have had an awful year and should look to trade veterans for draft picks. Since Mack is only under contract this year, he could be on the move.
However, it has sounded like they may be unwilling to part ways with him. Mack isn’t a difference-maker anymore, but he is a great talent. He could help elevate the Bears' defensive line to the next level. They looked solid but could use more proven talent. If the Chargers do trade Mack, then Chicago should be one of the top teams to watch. A low-cost reunion could help both sides. Los Angeles receives a draft pick before losing him, and Chicago gets back defensive help.
Final Analysis
The Bears offense looks ready to lead the team to the playoffs. However, they could use more defensive help. Wright or Woolen would add depth to a weak secondary. Mack could add another splash to the defense. Chicago has proven to be a strong team, and adding another piece could solidify their playoff push.
