The Chicago Bears continue to search for ways to strengthen their pass rush heading into the 2025 season, and for good reason.
While Chicago added Dayo Odeyingbo this offseason opposite Montez Sweat, the duo looked ineffective in limited action against the Kansas City Chiefs in the team’s final preseason game, leaving some concerned not only with the depth behind them, but with the entire unit.
One name that could make sense on the trade market is Arizona Cardinals edge B.J. Ojulari. A former second-round pick out of LSU, Ojulari has already shown flashes of being a disruptive force when healthy, and his affordable rookie contract makes him an intriguing target for a team looking to bulk up its pass rush.
We think adding a young, high-upside player like Ojulari to complement Sweat and company might not be a bad move for Chicago to make right now. Let’s discuss.
A Look Back at Ojulari’s NFL Career So Far
GettyThe Chicago Bears should gauge trade interest in Cardinals edge rusher B.J. Ojulari.
Ojulari entered the league as the 41st overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft by the Cardinals after a standout career at LSU. As a rookie, he made an immediate impact, starting all 17 games and finishing with 40 tackles (five for loss), six QB hits, 4.0 sacks and a pass defended.
His motor and ability to bend around the edge gave Arizona a glimpse of his long-term potential. Unfortunately, his second season with the Cardinals never materialized, as a torn ACL kept him on the sidelines for the entire year.
At LSU, he notched 129 tackles, 25 tackles for loss and 16.5 sacks in 34 career games, earning first-team All-SEC honors as a junior. The ability he’s shown to play across multiple fronts should intrigue Allen and the Bears.
From a contract standpoint, Ojulari enters 2025 in the final year of his rookie deal with a cap hit of just $2.34 million. That makes him an affordable, low-risk option for any team willing to bet on his return to form after injury. If healthy, there’s no doubt he could contribute in meaningful ways in Chicago.
What Could a Trade for B.J. Ojulari Look Like for the Chicago Bears?
A realistic trade proposal might see the Bears send a 2026 third-round pick to the Cardinals in exchange for Ojulari. At just 23, the Cardinals may not want to part with him, but they do have a bit of a log jam at DE with the likes of new addition Josh Sweat and Darius Robinson. A Round 3 pick might sway Arizona. Bears GM Ryan Poles should at least try.
What makes Chicago such an intriguing fit is Allen’s presence as defensive coordinator. His Saints defenses consistently finished in the top 10 in scoring defense, also excelling on third downs and in the red zone. Allen’s scheme thrives on pressure and physicality, and Ojulari’s explosiveness off the edge would give him the kind of chess piece he likes to move around.
Allen’s defenses have always relied on players who can disrupt without compromising discipline, and Ojulari’s college and rookie tape suggest he can fit that mold.
Ojulari wouldn’t be asked to carry the load right away, but his presence would add major depth to Chicago’s pass-rush rotation. We think it would behoove the Bears to look into adding him.
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