Bears Trade Proposition Supplants Disappointing RB For Ex 1,000 Yard Rusher
The Chicago Bears snuck past the Las Vegas Raiders in a mistake-filled thriller – for both teams – 25-24, on Sunday afternoon.
Whilst the Bears were certainly not perfect on the defensive side – despite two interceptions from former two-time All-Pro safety, Kevin Byard – the area that really got fans going was the run game.
Chicago Bears’ Running Backs Not Performing Well
Despite a game-sealing touchdown, D’Andre Swift had yet another disappointing game against Las Vegas, managing just 2.7 yards per carry on the day, and a similarly poor 3.3 YPC on the season.
And whilst there were high hopes for him over the past couple of seasons, former fourth round pick, Roschon Johnson has effectively been frozen out of the team, having been given no carries over the past two weeks since returning from a foot injury.
Rookie seventh round pick, Kyle Monangai, had a better day than Swift in week 4, but on the season has largely been playing with similar mediocre levels of efficiency.
It seems to be, more than anything, that head coach, Ben Johnson, is looking for his lead back to truly move the offense forward. Now, he is almost certainly not going to find him on the trade block ahead of November’s deadline, but there is a chance that he can find a new lead back – or at least one that gives a bona fide competitive push to Swift and Monangai.
Rico Dowdle Makes Sense For The Bears
So in this trade proposal, the Bears make a trade for Carolina Panthers backup running back, Rico Dowdle.
Dowdle came over from the Dallas Cowboys this past offseason, where he managed 1,079 yards rushing in his first season as the RB1. However, the Cowboys were not keen on retaining him, and instead the Panthers signed him to a modest one year, $2.75 million deal, with incentives that could get him up past the $6 million figure in 2025.
But the ex-Cowboy is very much RB2 in Carolina, behind Chuba Hubbard – who was signed to a four year extension last November.
In this proposal, the Dowdle has the opportunity to see not only get more attempts rushing, and eventually take over as the starter, but to operate in an offense filled with far more high-quality skill weapons, operated by offensive guru, Ben Johnson.
The South Carolina alum has not managed to eclipse 10 carries this season, and his efficiency metrics are way down from last season, going from 4.6 yards per carry in 2024, to 3.0 over the past four games.
Yet, how much of that is down to the crumbling offense, rather than Dowdle’s change in ability is certainly worth noting – especially since he is still just 27 years of age.
Behind the Bears’ interior offensive line that, at least on paper, has talent – and with one of the most respected up-and-coming offensive minds in the business in Ben Johnson, Dowdle could return to being a 1,000 yard + rusher, and finally give quarterback, Caleb Williams, his outlet in the ground game that the team have so desperately needed.
Chicago Bears receive: Rico Dowdle, 2026 seventh round pick
Carolina Panthers receive: 2026 fifth round pick
9 Teams Submit Trade Offers for Packers LB Micah Parsons — Market Heating Up Fast
In a jaw-dropping turn of events, Green Bay Packers linebacker Micah Parsons has emerged as a top target on the trade market, with nine teams reportedly submitting offers for his services. The 24-year-old defensive standout, widely regarded as one of the most dynamic and versatile linebackers in the NFL, now finds himself at a crucial crossroads in his career. Under the leadership of head coach Matt LaFleur, Parsons has been an anchor of the Packers’ defense, but with increasing trade interest, his future in Green Bay has become a topic of widespread speculation.
Parsons, who was drafted by the Packers in 2022, quickly made his mark as a ferocious tackler and playmaker. Known for his exceptional athleticism, speed, and ability to disrupt plays, Parsons has been one of the most feared linebackers in the league. His impact has been undeniable — both against the run and in coverage. As a leader on defense, Parsons has set the tone for the Packers, consistently being a game-changer on the field.
In an exclusive statement, Parsons shared his thoughts on the trade rumors, saying, “Matt LaFleur told me there were nine teams interested in trading for me. I said, if there’s truly a place where I can get a real shot – like a starting LB role – then let me go. But if not, I’m staying with the Packers, the place that’s shaped me, giving everything I’ve got and waiting for my moment to come.”
Despite being a central figure in the Packers’ defensive scheme, Parsons’ future with the team is uncertain. Green Bay is currently navigating a rebuilding phase, with an eye on both long-term success and immediate improvements. Trading away a player of Parsons’ caliber could provide significant value in return — likely yielding high draft picks or immediate assets to strengthen other areas of the roster. However, letting go of one of the league’s best young linebackers would be a difficult pill to swallow for a defense already undergoing changes.
The trade market for Parsons has reportedly heated up, with nine teams expressing interest in acquiring the versatile linebacker. His ability to play all three linebacker positions, along with his pass-rushing prowess and ability to cover running backs and tight ends, makes him an ideal fit for a number of teams looking to bolster their defense. Whether a team needs a leader for the long haul or a high-impact player to make a difference immediately, Parsons has quickly proven his worth.
Despite the swirling rumors, Parsons has made it clear that his loyalty lies with the Packers. “This is the team that drafted me, and I’m forever grateful for the opportunity,” Parsons said. “But if there’s a chance for me to get a real shot somewhere else, I’ll consider it. If I stay, I’ll continue to give everything I have to Green Bay and help this team succeed.”
With the trade deadline approaching, the Packers now face a difficult decision. Will they part ways with one of their most valuable assets, or will they keep Parsons as the cornerstone of their defense? As nine teams reportedly vie for his services, Micah Parsons' future in Green Bay remains one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the final days before the trade deadline.
