Getty
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 28: Darnell Wright #58 of the Chicago Bears blocks Jalen Carter #98 of the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on November 28, 2025 in Philadelphia, United States. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
The Chicago Bears could once again find themselves connected to one of the most intriguing trade rumors of the NFL offseason.
After weeks of speculation about Chicago pursuing Maxx Crosby, a new name has emerged. It could reshape the Bears’ defensive line.
According to multiple reports, the Philadelphia Eagles have received trade calls regarding Pro Bowl defensive tackle Jalen Carter.
ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler first reported that Philadelphia had been taking calls on the star defender. The development quickly sparked league-wide interest.
“The Eagles have received trade calls on Carter,” Fowler reported while discussing Philadelphia’s roster decisions as the team weighs several looming contract extensions.
Shortly after that report surfaced, Bears insider Ben Devine suggested Carter would be exactly the type of player Chicago should pursue if he truly becomes available.
“Jalen Carter is exactly what the Chicago Bears need most on defense,” Devine wrote on social media. “However, the Eagles wanting to trade him before having to pay him speaks volumes.”
Ben Devine
Jalen Carter is exactly what the Chicago Bears need most on defense. However, the Eagles wanting to trade him before having to pay him speaks volumes.
Carter, a two-time Pro Bowler who was also named second-team All-Pro in 2024, has emerged as one of the most disruptive interior defenders in the NFL since entering the league in 2023.
Now the question is whether Ryan Poles and the Bears will pursue a potential blockbuster trade.
Bears Could Pivot to Carter After Missing on Crosby
The Bears have been among the most active teams connected to defensive trade rumors this offseason.
Chicago was heavily linked to Crosby before the star edge rusher was ultimately dealt to the Baltimore Ravens on Friday. That move left the Bears still searching for a major upgrade along the defensive front, a need that has been widely discussed around the league.
Reports have since suggested Chicago is one of several teams that have contacted Philadelphia to inquire about Carter’s availability.
Bearsszn
RUMOR: The Chicago Bears are one of the 5 NFL teams have called the Eagles regarding DT Jalen Carter, per @Easton__Butler
This comes after @JFowlerESPN had said the Eagles were taking calls for him. How would we feel if the Bears traded for Jalen Carter? 👀
According to Easton Butler of 247Sports, the Bears are among five teams that have called the Eagles regarding a potential trade involving the star defensive tackle. The San Francisco 49ers, Green Bay Packers, Seattle Seahawks and Las Vegas Raiders were also reportedly among the teams checking in on Carter’s situation.
Carter’s presence in the middle could significantly improve the Bears’ pass rush. It would also help stabilize a defensive tackle group that remains a major offseason need.
Carter’s Talent Could Tempt the Bears Despite Concerns
While Carter’s on-field performance has been exceptional, his career has also included several controversies that could impact his trade value.
Before entering the NFL, Carter was involved in a highly publicized incident connected to a fatal crash in Athens, Georgia.
More recently, he also faced disciplinary scrutiny during the 2025 season.
He was also involved in an altercation with Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott during the 2025 season.
Despite those concerns, Carter’s production on the field has remained undeniable.
Since being drafted ninth overall in 2023, he has consistently drawn double teams while still generating pressure from the interior. This is something few defensive tackles are capable of doing at an elite level.
Because of both the off-field history and the looming cost of a massive contract extension, some around the league believe Carter could be acquired for less than what a player of his caliber would normally command.
Still, the biggest mystery surrounding the situation may be Philadelphia’s willingness to even listen to trade offers.
For a player widely viewed as a franchise-caliber defender, the Eagles entertaining calls could signal a surprising shift. It could potentially open the door for an aggressive team like the Bears to make a blockbuster move.