Despite the Chicago Bears’ 7-10 record, their recent performance in five out of the last seven games showcased notable improvement. A key contributor to their success has been defensive lineman Montez Sweat, who played a crucial role in the team’s victories.
In the season finale against the Green Bay Packers, resulting in a 17-9 loss for the Bears, Montez Sweat delivered an outstanding performance. His remarkable display during this game left an indelible mark, securing a notable place for Sweat in the annals of NFL history.
Which NFL record did Montez Sweat establish?
Montez Sweat etched his name in the NFL record books by achieving a rare feat during the 2023 season. In a historic accomplishment, Sweat became the first player ever to lead two different teams in sacks within the same season.
The remarkable journey unfolded as Sweat contributed 6.0 sacks for the Chicago Bears after their Week 18 game. The same player recorded 6.5 sacks for the Washington Commanders this season. His combined total of 12.5 sacks between the two teams strengthened his status as a standout pass rusher. The feat let him finish the season as the sack leader for both franchises.
The impactful performance didn’t merely secure a record; it also played a pivotal role in shaping the defensive landscape for the Bears. Since joining Chicago, the former Commanders player’s ability to disrupt quarterbacks from the edge has contributed to the team’s defensive resurgence.
Sweat’s consistent impact on the field has been evident through his achievement of recording a sack in every game he played for the Bears. This consistent disruption has been a driving force behind the Bears’ defensive success. Because of him, the unit is now leading the NFL in interceptions with an impressive tally of 22 and maintaining a staunch run defense by allowing an average of just 84.0 yards per game.
The strategic trade that sent edge-rushers Chase Young and Montez Sweat to the San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Bears, respectively, on October 31 was initially met with uncertainty for the Commanders. Nevertheless, Sweat’s subsequent dominance with the Bears has not only justified the trade but also elevated him to record-breaking heights.
Following the impactful trade, the Bears secured Sweat’s future by signing him to a four-year extension worth $98 million. The deal included significant financial commitments, with $41.96 million fully guaranteed and a total of $72.86 million in guarantees.
This extension reflected the Bears’ confidence in Sweat’s abilities. Subsequently, it set the stage for the edge-rusher to finish the 2023 season with career highs in sacks, totaling an impressive 16 and proving his versatility with 63 total pressures.
Is Montez Sweat selected for Pro Bowl this season?
For the second consecutive year, the Pro Bowl format is eschewing an actual game in favor of NFC vs. AFC skill competitions spread across multiple days in Orlando. Meanwhile, Montez Sweat secures a spot on the NFC roster for the 2024 Pro Bowl.
To acknowledge the honor of being chosen for his inaugural Pro Bowl appearance and representing the vibrant city of Chicago, Sweat expressed his gratitude after being voted to represent the Bears on the NFC team.
“I am honored to be selected to my first Pro Bowl and to represent the great city of Chicago,” Sweat said.
In expressing his appreciation, Sweat extended gratitude to his fans, recognizing their role in his selection. The Bears player also mentioned the crucial support from his teammates, coaches, support staff, and family, attributing their collective influence to his success this season.
“What makes this honor special is that the fans played a role in me being selected. I am truly grateful for my teammates, coaches, support staff and my family for all the support this season. I wouldn’t be here without them.”
Sweat’s Pro Bowl selection adds to the Bears’ representation, with cornerback Jaylon Johnson also earning a nomination for this season’s Pro Bowl. Since being drafted by the Bears in the second round of the 2020 draft, Johnson has consistently stood out as a key defensive asset. In this season, he tied for the team lead in interceptions with a career-high four.
Keep an eye out for the latest updates as these Bears players prepare to make their mark in the Pro Bowl, representing both their team and the city of Chicago with pride and skill.
