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INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 24: General manager Ryan Poles of the Chicago Bears speaks to the media during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 24, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
The Chicago Bears may not be planning a quiet offseason after all.
While speaking during NFL Combine week, Bears general manager Ryan Poles delivered a short but powerful message that immediately fueled speculation across the NFL.
When asked directly whether the Bears would be interested in pursuing big-time players on the trade market this offseason, general manager Ryan Poles didn’t hesitate:
“Absolutely. We are making the call.”
Ben Devine
Here was Ryan Poles response when asked about if he will be interested in big-time players on the trade market. “Absolutely. We are making the call.”😳
via @WaddleandSilvy on @ESPN1000
That was Poles’ response, according to Bears insider Ben Devine. While specific names were not mentioned, the intent was clear. If a star becomes available and the price makes sense, Chicago plans to be aggressive.
For a team coming off an 11-6 season and an NFC North title, many around the league believe the Bears are one big move away from being a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
Bears Positioning for a Big Swing
Poles emphasized that Chicago must balance urgency with long-term sustainability. The Bears believe they have their franchise quarterback in Caleb Williams, who is still on his rookie contract. That financial flexibility creates a critical window to load the roster with premium talent before a massive extension becomes necessary down the road.
“We want to win championships now,” Poles said this week. “But we have to be very conscious of how we put this team together.”
That’s where the trade market becomes intriguing.
Chicago is navigating some salary cap pressure right now, and Poles admitted he’s already taken calls from other teams checking in on potential moves. Veteran wide receiver DJ Moore and tight end Cole Kmet are among the players whose names have come up as the Bears sort through different roster scenarios.
Still, his comments about “making the call” signal something bigger than minor roster tweaks.
What Could a Bears Blockbuster Look Like?
Poles has shown before that he isn’t afraid to be bold. The trade for Montez Sweat reshaped the defense in 2024.
With Chicago now viewed as a serious NFC threat, one more elite piece could push them over the top.
That leaves the door open for a marquee pass rusher if one unexpectedly becomes available.
Across the league, teams are dealing with cap issues and tough contract decisions. The Bears could look to capitalize.
If the Las Vegas Raiders truly remain “open to listening,” Maxx Crosby would immediately vault to the top of any wishlist. A relentless, game-wrecking edge rusher in his prime would change the dynamic of the Bears’ defense.
And if the New York Giants pivot toward a defensive reset, even a name like Kayvon Thibodeaux could generate calls.
Elite pass rushers rarely become available, but when they do, Poles just made it clear he intends to pick up the phone.
Poles also emphasized the Bears won’t recklessly mortgage the future. But they won’t sit idle either.
And when a general manager publicly says, “Absolutely. We are making the call,” about big-name trades, it’s a signal that big things could be on the horizon.
Don’t be surprised if Chicago makes one of the biggest calls of the entire offseason.