Chicago is going all in on a playoff run, and it just paid a historic price to do it.
The Chicago Bears acquired All-Pro defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons from the Tennessee Titans on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, sending two picks in the first round to Tennessee.
What did the Bears give up for Jeffery Simmons?
The Bears sent the Titans their picks in the first round of the 2027 and 2028 drafts, plus a pick in the fourth round of the 2027 draft. Chicago also received a pick in the fifth round of the 2028 draft.
Jeffery Simmons is the first defensive tackle since 1967 to be traded for more than one pick in the first round, according to ESPN Research.
It is the boldest move yet by Bears general manager Ryan Poles, who had never before traded multiple picks in the first round. In 2023, he traded the top overall pick to Carolina for receiver DJ Moore and picks, one of which became quarterback Caleb Williams.
Why did the Titans trade him?
The Titans general manager said the team never tried to trade Simmons and had turned away many calls. That changed when Poles, whom he knew from their time with the Kansas City Chiefs, called Wednesday night with an offer too good to pass up.
The Titans head coach said that when a team stands at one win and six losses, others start fishing, and eventually one threw a hook big enough that no one could say no.
Simmons signed an extension worth $105.8 million over three years before the season, with $100 million guaranteed, keeping him under contract through 2030.
A day before the trade, Jeffery Simmons said he had heard nothing from his agent or the team and was focused only on the present.
How good is Jeffery Simmons?
Simmons, 29, was drafted by Tennessee in the first round in 2019 and spent his entire career there. In eight seasons, he has 46.5 sacks, 72 tackles for loss and 96 quarterback hits.
He was named an All-Pro on the first team last season after posting 11 sacks, a career high. Since 2019, he ranks second among defensive tackles in sacks and tied for first in forced fumbles.
This season, he leads the Titans with four sacks and has the highest pass rush win rate of any defensive tackle in the league, 27%. He has played nearly 87% of Tennessee’s defensive snaps.
How does Jeffery Simmons help Chicago?
The Bears have struggled to pressure quarterbacks without blitzing. Over the past two seasons, their standard rush has produced pressure on 25% of plays, the fourth lowest rate in the league. The defense has had trouble getting pressure since its current coordinator arrived in 2025.
Chicago ranks 23rd this season in pass rush win rate from its interior defenders. Simmons also reunites with defensive end Montez Sweat, his former college teammate at Mississippi State.
The Bears, who have five wins and two losses, have made clear they are aiming for a deep playoff run. Their head coach said this week that the general manager was turning over every stone to improve the team.
What is Jeffery Simmons’ legacy in Tennessee?
Simmons was elected a team captain for six straight seasons. The Titans’ controlling owner thanked him for how he played, led and represented the team, and praised his foundation’s work in Middle Tennessee and his home state of Mississippi.
For Jeffery Simmons, the trade opens a new chapter with a contender after years as the face of the Titans’ defense. The trade deadline is Nov. 10, and more moves could follow.
