Bears Explore Trade for Bengals' Shemar Stewart
The Chicago Bears are reportedly eyeing a trade for the defensive lineman ahead of the upcoming NFL deadline.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Football
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The Chicago Bears are considering a trade for Cincinnati Bengals defensive lineman Shemar Stewart to bolster their defensive line. The potential deal would send a conditional 2028 fourth-round pick to the Bengals, which could upgrade to a third-rounder based on snap counts.
Why it matters
The Bears are looking to replace Dayo Odeyingbo, who is currently on injured reserve with a quadriceps injury. Stewart, the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft, is currently buried on the Bengals' defensive depth chart.
Shemar Stewart was selected 17th overall in the 2025 NFL draft and signed a rookie contract valued at $18.9 million. In 2026, he has logged only 17 defensive snaps despite recording 11 sacks during his college career.
The players
Shemar Stewart
He is a defensive lineman who was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round of the 2025 NFL draft.
Dayo Odeyingbo
He is a defensive lineman currently playing for the Chicago Bears who is on injured reserve due to a quadriceps injury.
Jeremy Fowler
He is a sports journalist who covers the NFL and reported on the interest surrounding a potential trade for Shemar Stewart.
Chicago Bears
This is a professional football team based in Chicago that competes in the NFC North division.
Cincinnati Bengals
This is a professional football team based in Cincinnati that competes in the AFC North division.
The details
The Chicago Bears seek defensive reinforcements after establishing a 4-2 record and ranking sixth in the league with a 39.5 percent pressure rate. Adding Stewart would provide depth for the unit that has already recorded 17 sacks this season.
Timeline
Shemar Stewart was drafted 17th overall in 2025.
Jeremy Fowler reported on interest in Shemar Stewart on October 21, 2026.
The NFL trade deadline is November 10, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This potential move reflects a strategic push by the 4-2 Bears to maintain their competitive standing in a tight playoff race. By seeking to address a roster vacancy, the team aims to preserve their high defensive pressure rate through the remainder of the season.
Fantasy managers should note that Stewart's potential move could impact defensive line rotations in Chicago. His integration would be vital for maintaining the team's top-tier pressure rate as they look to secure a playoff position.
The takeaway
Team depth is critical for squads like the Bears that rely on high defensive pressure to win games. Improving roster flexibility before the November deadline can prevent a late-season collapse when key contributors suffer injuries.
What happens next
The NFL trade deadline is November 10, 2026, by which time any potential deal must be finalized.
Further reading
For more news on league personnel moves, visit the Football section.
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Should your local team prioritize trading for proven talent over younger, high-upside developmental players?
