Bears Acquire All-Pro DT Jeffery Simmons from Titans in Blockbuster Trade
Chicago sends two first-round picks and a fourth-round pick to Tennessee for the four-time Pro Bowler.
The Chicago Bears have acquired All-Pro defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons from the Tennessee Titans in a significant trade aimed at bolstering their defensive line. In exchange, the Bears sent their 2027 and 2028 first-round picks, along with a 2027 fourth-round pick to the Titans.
Simmons, a four-time Pro Bowl selection, has been a standout defensive tackle since the Titans drafted him 19th overall in the 2019 NFL Draft. He has recorded 414 tackles and 46.5 sacks in 106 career games. The trade makes him the first defensive tackle since 1967 to be traded for multiple first-round picks.
Tennessee Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk expressed gratitude for Simmons' contributions, stating, "There are few people like Jeff Simmons. We are forever grateful for all he has given this team and this city." She also highlighted his off-field impact through his Give ’Em A Reason Foundation.
The Bears, currently 5-2 and second in the NFC North, hope Simmons will significantly improve their defensive front. The team's pressure rate has been a concern, ranking tied for 20th in the NFL. The acquisition comes as star defensive end Montez Sweat is set to return after a two-game suspension, further strengthening the defense.
Simmons has signed a three-year contract extension with the Bears, keeping him under contract through the 2030 season. The Titans, now 1-6, appear to be entering a rebuilding phase with a 1-6 record and their top draft pick, quarterback Cam Ward, having struggled in his second season.