Bears urged to make move after $71 million DT demands trade

The Chicago Bears will begin their training camp on Wednesday, looking to have a deeper playoff run next season. Several teams around the league have started theirs, with rosters being finalized. However, some signings could still occur at this stage of the offseason.

Big-name free agents are available, along with players who have requested trades. Chicago could add pieces that may play big roles for the team in 2026.

The Bears already bolstered their lineup by addressing positional needs via free agency and the draft. They plugged their gaping hole at safety with the addition of former Seattle Seahawks star Coby Bryant and incoming rookie Dillon Thieneman.

Coby Bryant Chicago Bears — Ex-Seattle Seahawks safety Coby Bryant (8) against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl LX.

Chicago Bears encouraged to acquire Buccaneers star

Vita Vea may have already played his last snap for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. NFL Media’s Mike Garofalo reported on Monday that the defensive tackle requested a trade, and Bears fans are urging the team to make a move for him.

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“RYAN POLES IF YOU CAN HEAR ME BRING HIM TO THE BEARS ,” a comment on Instagram wrote.

“Man this would be a GameChanger, but knowing the bears we won’t do shit and watch a rival or NFC team get him,” another said.

“Vea, Grady, and Dexter would be crazy,” a user wrote.

“Give them Jarrett & 3rd or 4th round. That’s it,” a reaction read.

“Please be aggressive poles,” pleaded another.

“Let’s cut Gordon , and use that extra 13MIL to bring him in!” suggested a fan.

Vea, who signed a four-year, $71 million extension in 22, was the No. 12 pick in 2018 and has spent his entire career with Tampa Bay. He is a one-time Super Bowl champion and two-time Pro Bowler who is known for his toughness and availability. The 31-year-old appeared and started in all 17 regular-season games in 2025, recording 34 combined tackles consisting of 18 assisted and 16 solo efforts. Vea added 4.5 sacks and two pass deflections.

His potential addition will give the Bears an experienced nose tackle that could be a difference-maker on the defensive line. Chicago aims to improve its run defense after giving up 134.5 yards per game last season. It ranked sixth in the league.