CHICAGO -- The Chicago Bears are fielding trade inquiries on both quarterback Tyson Bagent and defensive end Khalil Mack ahead of the NFL trade deadline, league sources said Sunday.
The Baltimore Ravens, sitting at 4-4 in the AFC North, have reached out to the Bears regarding Bagent, multiple high-ranking NFL personnel executives said. The Ravens are down to rookie undrafted free agent Joe Fagnano after starting quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley suffered injuries. Jackson is on injured reserve with thumb surgery, while Huntley is dealing with turf toe.
Multiple league sources told Sports Illustrated's Jason La Canfora through the summer that the Bears were rebuffing all overtures for Bagent, who makes $4 million this year and $4 million next year. One NFL GM told La Canfora: "Chicago doesn't have to trade him. They like him … Wonder how hard they squeeze DeCosta?"
The Ravens' desperation at the position -- combined with the trade deadline -- may be what they need to get an offer Chicago cannot refuse, sources said.
Meanwhile, NFL Insider Ian Rapoport suggested on NBC's NFL Game Day the Bears may not be done exploring trades. "I'm told they are still calling around. Still looking on the edges of their defense. Wouldn't be surprised if a Khalil Mack trade was in the offer here. A possible reunion for Mack and the Bears," Rapoport said.
Mack, 35, who has spent much of his career with the Bears, played just 35 snaps in the Los Angeles Chargers' 24-9 loss to the Rams on Sunday. In seven games all starts, Mack has 21 tackles, 5 tackles for loss and 3 sacks. The Chargers, now 0-7, have been reluctant to deal the veteran pass rusher.
Mack addressed the trade rumors, saying via FOX Sports' Eric Williams: "You've got to be where your feet are, man, ultimately. That can be the most difficult thing when you're dealing with a lot of outside noise and stuff. Just trying to be where your feet are at all times. That's kind of been my thing in years past."
The Bears, at 4-4, are exploring options on both players as the deadline approaches, with the organization appearing reluctant to part with Bagent without a significant return and Mack's future depending on the Chargers' willingness to move him.
