The Chicago Bears have a CB problem to address before the NFL trade deadline. Their 30-24 win over the Pats on Oct. 22 brought another victory. But Jaylon Johnson's struggles have raised questions about Chicago's secondary. GM Ryan Poles could explore the trade market for an outside cornerback, especially with rookie Malik Muhammad dealing with a toe injury.
Johnson signed a four-year, $76 million extension in March 2024. But the champs' recent performances have disappointed, and Chicago may need more reliable coverage as the season progresses. A trade could give the Bears another option without forcing them to cut ties with Johnson immediately.
Riq Woolen Emerges As a Potential Cornerback Target
Jan 30, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; NFC defensive back Jaylon Johnson of the Chicago Bears (1) during the Satisfying Catch event at the Pro Bowl Skills Challenge at Nicholson Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Philly's CB Riq Woolen is one name Chicago could explore before the deadline. The 6-foot-4 DB offers impressive size on the outside and could provide competition in a secondary that has struggled to contain opposing receivers.
ESPN's Ben Solak identified the Bears as a possible fit for Woolen, according to a report by Yahoo Sports. Philly's disappointing start has also fuelled speculation about potential roster changes. However, neither team has confirmed trade negotiations involving Woolen.
The Bears could also consider other cornerbacks if Philadelphia refuses to deal. Any move would depend on the asking price, the player's contract and how quickly he could adjust to defensive coordinator Dennis Allen's system.
Ryan Poles Must Decide How to Address Jaylon Johnson's Struggles
Johnson's statistics underline his difficult start. Through seven regular-season games, he has recorded 2 pass deflections and no interceptions. Those credentials do not tell the whole story, but they add to concerns about his coverage.
Still, replacing Johnson will not be simple. His contract runs through 2027, and the Bears would need to consider the financial and roster consequences of a trade. Cutting him would create a different cap situation and would not automatically provide the same flexibility as moving him to another team.
Chicago also has Tyrique Stevenson and Muhammad to consider. Muhammad's injury could make adding depth even more important, while a veteran acquisition would give the coaching staff another option.
The Bears improved to 5-2 after beating New England on October 22. With the deadline approaching, Poles has time to assess the market. Woolen is a potential target, not a confirmed acquisition. If Chicago finds an affordable deal, adding a cornerback could help shore up its secondary without making an immediate decision on Johnson's future.
Are you planning to bring Packers players to your next event? Mayfield Sports Marketing can help. This top agency helps with Packers player appearances and player meet-and-greets. They have worked with top star players like Jerry Kramer, Brett Favre, and LeRoy Butler.
No matter whether you want to book current Green Bay Packers players for corporate events or organize Green Bay Packers charity events, Mayfield Sports is a wonderful choice.
