NFL Preseason Week 3 is set to kick off tonight, but amidst the excitement, the Chicago Bears and the rest of the league are gearing up for the upcoming roster cut-down. With a deadline of Tuesday at 3 p.m. CT to trim preseason rosters from 90 to 53 players, trade rumors are swirling as teams strive to solidify their rosters.

According to Brad Biggs of the Tribune, the Bears may have their sights set on reinforcing their defensive tackle position. While edge rushers, offensive linemen, and return specialists are also possible targets, the Bears could be on the lookout for hidden gems among defensive tackles who hit the waiver wire or become free agents after being cut. Biggs suggests that the Bears could potentially trade a late-round pick for a rotational backup or a player with valuable experience.

This insight from Biggs underscores the significance of the defensive tackle position for the Bears. Though much of the team's defensive line focus has been on the edge/defensive end position, questions remain beyond names like Andrew Billings, Gervon Dexter Sr., and Zacch Pickens on the depth chart. Players such as Byron Cowart, Michael Dwumfour, Keith Randolph Jr., Dashaun Mallory, and Jaylon Hutchings have yet to prove their mettle, leaving the Bears potential room to explore the trade market for additional help.

It's no secret that the Bears have been actively seeking defensive line reinforcements throughout the offseason. While they currently hold the ninth position on the waiver wire, the team may opt to be proactive in their pursuit of a reliable defensive tackle. General Manager Ryan Poles has been keeping an eye on the market for offensive line help as well, but the return of Nate Davis to the lineup could potentially alter their priorities.

During an episode of HBO's Hard Knocks, Poles expressed his unwavering commitment to finding options that would elevate the team's performance. This mindset could prove fruitful as the trade deadline approaches. The Bears will be well-positioned to make moves, holding multiple late-round picks, including their own selections in the fifth and sixth rounds, a potential fourth-rounder from the Steelers depending on Justin Fields' playing time, and a sixth-round pick acquired from the Dolphins via the Chase Claypool trade.

As the preseason finale approaches, attention will be focused on the defensive tackle position to see if any standout performances influence the Bears' decision-making. With vast potential and some lingering concerns about depth along the interior of the defensive line, the Bears will undoubtedly keep their options open leading up to the cut-down deadline.

While the trade market remains unpredictable, fans can expect the Bears to be active participants as they seek to solidify their roster ahead of the regular season. Stay tuned for further updates as the trade deadline looms and the Bears navigate the ever-changing landscape of NFL roster rebuilding.