Bears DC Dennis Allen makes admission after Jeffrey Simmons trade

It’s exciting times for the Chicago Bears, especially for Dennis Allen. The team landed Jeffery Simmons via a trade on Wednesday, and he will play a key role in the unit. The defensive coordinator made an honest admission on Friday.

Simmons is a four-time Pro Bowler and earned first-team All-Pro honors last season. The Bears sent their 2027 and 2028 first-round selections and a 2027 fourth rounder to the Tennessee Titans. They received the veteran defensive tackle and a 2028 fifth-round draft pick.

Meanwhile, Allen is in his second season with the team. He guided the defense last year in recording the most turnovers forced in 2025 with 32. However, his unit is widely considered the team’s weak link, which the Simmons trade addresses.

Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen speaks during Chicago Bears Training Camp at Halas Hall.

Dennis Allen expressed excitement to coach new Bears DT Jeffery Simmons

Allen shared his thoughts on coaching a players like Simmons. He admitted that it’s his first time to have a player under him who is as talented as the 19th overall pick in 2019.

“I don’t know that I’ve had anybody that’s been what I would consider this dominant,” Allen said. “I’ve had some good players that have played inside for us. David Onyemata comes to mind. But I don’t know that I’ve had anybody this disruptive.”

“I don’t know that I’ve had anybody that’s been what I would consider this dominant.”

Dennis Allen on Jeffery Simmons https://t.co/XGH2l0UtEq

— CHGO Bears (@CHGO_Bears) October 30, 2026

Simmons will make his Bears debut on Monday. They will visit the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Seattle Seahawks, at Lumen Field for a “Monday Night Football” matchup. Chicago is coming off back-to-back victories, including a 30-24 Week 7 win over the New England Patriots.

The Bears offense is one of the best in the NFL, and their title hopes will be further boosted if the defense improves. Simmons brings a lot of experience to the table and could also serve as a locker room leader. ESPN will air the Monday primetime game live at 8:15 p.m. ET.