3 Chicago Bears who must step up amid Montez Sweat suspension

The Chicago Bears were already reeling after losing 31-7 to the Green Bay Packers in Week 5. But then matters were made even worse when Montez Sweat was suspended for two games for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug policy.

Sweat has become an integral part of Chicago’s pass rush. The Bears have spent years trying to find the right player opposite him. In 2026, the defensive end has put up seven tackles, four quarterback hits and two sacks. While his future with the team is now in question, his production will be difficult to replace immediately.

Especially since Dayo Odeyingbo is now expected to miss time with a quad injury. Down two key pass rushers, the Bears need a new plan in a hurry.

Chicago does have other intriguing pass rush options on the roster. But many haven’t had an opportunity to produce with other options in front of them. Now is their chance to show the Bears they deserve a bigger role in the pass rush rotation.

Austin Booker

Austin Booker has been the most impactful pass rusher on the Bears in the early going, as his four sacks and six quarterback hits lead the team. He will now be expected to take on even more responsibilities and will be locked into a starting role.

For as strong as Booker has been in 2026, he has just nine starts over his three-year NFL career. The pass rusher will need to prove he can stay consistent every snap he’s in the game. If so, Booker will be a difference maker long after Sweat and Odeyingbo return.

Chicago may make some major changes on defense come 2027. Booker will have a chance to not only help the Bears win the present, but secure his spot on the roster moving forward.

Shemar Turner 

Shemar Turner was activated off of the Physically Unable to Perform list to take Sweat’s roster spot. An ACL injury limited the defensive lineman to just five games as a rookie. When he steps on the field in 2026, he’ll be a bit of an unknown.

Still, Turner was a second-round in 2025. The Bears have high expectations for what he can offer the franchise. If there was ever a chance to prove his second-round pedigree, the time has now come.

How the Bears decide to use Turner coming off of injury is not yet known. But now fully healthy, Turner will finally get a chance to get after the quarterback again.

Jamree Kromah

Jamree Kromah has been inactive through the first five games of the season. But Chicago kept him on the active roster for a reason. Week 6 could mark the first time Kromah officially suits up for the Bears.

The pass rusher turned plenty of heads during the preseason. Through the three games, Kromah put up three sacks, four tackles for a loss and a forced fumble.

The Bears have been waiting to see if Kromah can be a true contributor for their defense. With a clear need at defensive tackle, he status may look different than it has in Week 6.

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