Bears’ Pass Rush Needs Montez Sweat to Improve This Season

CHICAGO, Illinois – The Chicago Bears’ pass rush has fallen short this season, and defensive end Montez Sweat is expected to be key for improvement. The so-called ‘Tez Effect,’ which refers to the transformative impact Sweat had on the team since his arrival, has been missing since last season.

The Bears, sitting with a record of 2-2, are preparing to face the Washington Commanders, who currently stand at 3-2, in a Week 6 matchup at Northwest Stadium today. Sweat’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses is crucial as Chicago looks to strengthen their defensive line.

General manager Ryan Poles previously described Sweat as a ‘multiplier,’ indicating his significant influence on the field. The Bears acquired Sweat at the trade deadline in 2023, and his presence was hoped to enhance the team’s performance. However, fans and analysts alike are starting to question where the expected gains are.

Former head coach Matt Eberflus coined the term ‘Tez Effect’ to highlight how Sweat’s skills could elevate the entire defense. Yet, this season, the Bears have yet to see this expected shift, raising concerns about the unit’s overall effectiveness.

As the Bears prepare for tough competition against the Commanders, player performance, particularly from Sweat, will be under scrutiny. Fans anticipate that the team will capitalize on his talents to improve their defensive strategies