Montez Sweat Returns for Bears After PED Suspension
The defensive end expressed regret for his violation and stated he has no intention of cheating the game.
Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat is set to rejoin the team for their upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks after serving a two-game suspension for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy. Sweat, 30, stated that the positive test result came as a surprise and that he does not know what caused it.
"It was a surprise, but you take a lick on the chin and keep moving forward," Sweat said. He also offered an apology to his teammates and the Bears fanbase, emphasizing that he never wants to intentionally "cheat the game."
The suspension meant Sweat had to face his coach, Ben Johnson, after the violation. "It was tough," Sweat admitted. "Nobody wants to look someone in the eye after you’ve done something detrimental like that to the team, but those are things you have to do to move forward."
The Bears secured victories in both games during Sweat's absence, defeating the Atlanta Falcons and the New England Patriots. Sweat acknowledged the team's "next-man-up mentality" and expressed happiness at being back with his teammates, stating that being in the locker room with them was what he missed the most.
Sweat is in his eighth NFL season and fourth with Chicago. He was acquired from the Washington Commanders midway through the 2023 season and subsequently signed a four-year contract extension worth $98 million. In 47 games with the Bears, he has recorded 23.5 sacks. This season, in five games, Sweat has accumulated two sacks. He will be active for the Monday night matchup against the Seahawks.