The Chicago Bears are facing a significant setback on defense, and it has nothing to do with an injury. Veteran defensive end Montez Sweat has been suspended for two games without pay after violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Schefter reported Tuesday that Sweat will be eligible for reinstatement Friday, Oct. 23, following Chicago's Week 7 matchup against the New England Patriots.
The suspension means the Bears will be without one of their most experienced defensive players as they look to build momentum during the early stages of the season. Sweat's absence comes at a difficult time for Chicago, which is looking to rebound from a disappointing 31-7 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. The Bears entered that matchup having won two consecutive games, including victories over the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Jets.
However, Green Bay brought that momentum to an abrupt halt, exposing several areas of concern for Chicago. Now, the Bears must prepare for their upcoming games without one of their most recognizable defensive contributors. Sweat has been an important part of Chicago's defensive front since arriving from the Washington Commanders in a trade during the 2023 season.
The former Mississippi State standout was originally selected by Washington with the 26th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. He spent more than four seasons with the Commanders before Chicago acquired him in exchange for a second-round draft pick. Shortly after the trade, the Bears signed Sweat to a four-year, $98 million contract extension, making him one of the highest-paid defensive players in franchise history.
The investment reflected Chicago's belief that Sweat could become a cornerstone of its defense. During his first full season with the Bears in 2024, Sweat recorded 5.5 sacks, providing a veteran presence on a defensive line that was still developing. He followed that performance with another productive campaign in 2025, recording 10 sacks while continuing to serve as one of Chicago's primary pass-rushing threats.
Through five games this season, Sweat has recorded two sacks, including one in Chicago's season-opening victory over the Carolina Panthers and another against Philadelphia. Although his production has fluctuated, Sweat's experience and ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks have remained important parts of the Bears' defensive approach. His absence will now force Chicago to adjust how it generates pressure along the defensive front.
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