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Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images
NFL teams in need of a defensive tackle have suddenly found another option after Gervon Dexter Sr. of the Chicago Bears was added to the trade block. There should be a fair share of suitors for the 24-year-old.
Dexter has appeared in 49 games, starting 33 of them since his arrival to Chicago in 2023. He started all 17 games in 2025, putting up 44 tackles, 11 quarterback hits and a career-high six sacks. Furthermore, Dexter's 72.7 pass rush grade from Pro Football Focus ranked 20/134 defensive linemen.
The elephant in the room is that the defensive tackle is set to be a free agent after the season. That's why he has become available via trade in the first place. If the Bears aren't planning on signing him to an extension, it makes sense to try and recoup some draft capital rather than let him walk for free.
But at the same time, any team acquiring him must be prepared to dole out some cash in their own right. That could hurt Chicago in trade discussions. But it isn't often a 24-year-old, 17-game starter becomes available this late in the offseason.
The Bears are sure to have discussions with plenty of teams around the league. But the Atlanta Falcons make the most sense as a potential suitor.
Falcons must trade for Bears' Gervon Dexter
Atlanta Falcons general manager Ian Cunningham speaks at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center.
Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Falcons hired Ian Cunningham as their general manager this offseason. Previously, he served as assistant general manager on the Bears. Of any non-Chicago executive, Cunningham may have the best idea of what Dexter brings to the team on and off the field. That knowledge of Dexter as a player and Chicago's organization at large may make it easier for Cunningham to pull off a deal.
Atlanta's defense has been decimated heading into Week 1. Linebacker Jalon Walker suffered a season-ending injury, while pass rusher James Pearce has been suspended for the first eight weeks of the season. Dexter wouldn't fix all of their problems, but he would at least give the Falcons a capable pass rusher in the short-term and a potential defensive building block in the long-term.
As it stands, Maason Smith and Brandon Dorlus are the team's top two interior defensive lineman. Smith earned a 49.1 grade from Pro Football Focus (ranking 103/134) defensive linemen, while Dorlus' 63.4 grade ranked 46th. Adding Dexter to the mix gives the Falcons much greater depth and helps a clear need across their defense.
During the 2025 season, Atlanta ranked 15th in total defense, allowing 326.6 yards per game. To be true competitors in the NFC South, and NFC at large, they know they need to climb up the ranks.
Cunningham is now building out his vision of the Falcons. Success won't be found overnight. But as Atlanta tries to find their vision, their new GM calling his old boss over Dexter shouldn't be ruled out.