Chicago Bears Discuss Potential Trade Deals for Gervon Dexter

The Chicago Bears have engaged in trade discussions involving defensive tackle Gervon Dexter ahead of the 2026 NFL season, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz on August 25, 2026. Multiple scenarios exist that could send the 24-year-old defensive lineman to a new franchise.

The reports surfaced shortly after Dexter exited Tuesday's practice early alongside a trainer. Selected in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, the former Florida product is entering the final year of his four-year rookie contract. Moving Dexter would create $1.67 million in salary cap savings while leaving $472,000 in dead money for Chicago.

During his three seasons with Chicago, Dexter appeared in 49 games, accumulating 115 total tackles, 13.5 sacks, 42 quarterback hits, 10 tackles for loss, and four fumble recoveries. In 2025, he started all 17 games, recording a career-high six sacks along with 44 total tackles.

Despite his career-best sack totals, Dexter faced low run-defense evaluations from Pro Football Focus over his tenure, scoring grades of 36.2, 60.3, and 43.9. The performance coincided with broad defensive line struggles for the Bears, who allowed 361.8 total yards per game last year.

Trading Dexter would significantly alter the depth of Chicago's interior defensive line, where veteran Grady Jarrett serves as a projected starter. Defensive tackle depth includes Neville Gallimore, Kentavius Street, James Lynch, and sixth-round rookie Jordan van den Berg, who received first-team repetitions during recent practice sessions.

Outside teams previously inquired about Dexter's availability during the winter, though no deal was finalized at the time. The franchise currently holds $4.6 million in available cap space as final roster cutdowns approach.