In an unexpected move at the trade deadline, the Chicago Bears have solidified their defense by locking in defensive end Montez Sweat with a four-year contract extension worth $98 million in new money, according to reports from NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. The deal includes an impressive $72.9 million guaranteed, making Sweat a valuable asset for the Bears moving forward.

Sweat's new contract places him among the top earners in his position, with an average salary of $24.5 million per year, surpassing Rashan Gary's recent deal. This substantial extension amounts to a total deal worth $105 million, making it a significant investment for the Bears.

The Bears' decision to acquire Sweat from the Washington Commanders in exchange for a 2024 second-round pick raised eyebrows, especially considering their current 2-6 record. However, the move to extend his stay in Chicago comes as no surprise, as Bears general manager Ryan Poles expressed his desire to secure a new deal for Sweat efficiently.

The agreement ensures that Sweat, a fifth-year professional, will remain with the Bears until 2027, becoming a vital building block for the team's future endeavors. During his tenure with the Commanders, Sweat showcased his talent, accumulating an impressive 35.5 sacks, nine forced fumbles, 47 tackles for loss, and 85 quarterback hits in 67 starts. Despite his consistent performance, Washington opted to part ways with both Sweat and his teammate Chase Young during their contract years.

With Young joining forces with Nick Bosa in San Francisco, Sweat immediately becomes the Bears' defensive standout. The team has struggled with generating pressure this season, recording only 10 sacks in eight games, the lowest in the league. Currently, T.J. Edwards and Yannick Ngakoue lead the defense with two sacks each. However, Sweat has the potential to surpass his previous career-best of nine sacks this season, as he already has 6.5 sacks to his name.

The Bears are eager to witness Sweat's immediate impact on the field as they face the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. With this lucrative extension in place, the team can now enjoy the prospect of having Sweat's exceptional skills at their disposal for years to come.