Bears Sign QB Austin Reed and Acquire WR Ben Skowronek in Trade with Rams

In an exciting move for the team, the Chicago Bears signed undrafted free agent QB Austin Reed from Western Kentucky on Thursday. This addition brings depth to the Bears' quarterback roster and provides an opportunity for Reed to showcase his skills at the professional level.

But the Bears' activity didn't stop there. They also made a trade with the Los Angeles Rams to acquire WR Ben Skowronek in exchange for a late-round pick swap in 2026. According to sources, the trade was confirmed by NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport.

The Houston Texans will be part of this trade as well, sending a 2026 sixth-round pick to the Rams for Skowronek and a 2026 seventh-rounder. The Texans saw an opportunity to add Skowronek to their wide receiver corps and were willing to part with a late-round pick to make it happen.

Earlier reports had suggested that Skowronek was expected to be released by the Rams. However, this trade not only secures his future in the NFL but also provides the Rams with an additional asset in the form of Houston's 2026 sixth-round pick.

The Bears' acquisition of both Austin Reed and Ben Skowronek showcases their commitment to bolstering their lineup through both free agency and trades. The team is looking to make significant improvements and add more depth to their roster with these additions.

As the 2026 NFL season approaches, the Bears, Rams, and Texans are all hopeful that these moves will pay dividends. The teams aim to utilize these new players to strengthen their respective positions and achieve success on the field.

Overall, the Bears' signing of QB Austin Reed and the trade for WR Ben Skowronek demonstrate the ongoing wheeling and dealing happening across the NFL as teams make strategic moves to build competitive rosters for the upcoming season.