Chicago Bears acquire defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons in blockbuster trade
The Bears traded two first-round picks and a fourth-rounder to the Tennessee Titans for defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, who expressed excitement about joining Chicago and addressed his previous comments about quarterback Caleb Williams.
Chicago acquired defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons after a trade that sent two first-round selections—one in 2026 and another in 2028—plus a 2027 fourth-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick to the Tennessee Titans. Simmons, who was drafted by the Titans in the first round in 2019, described the move as a “blessing” but noted the personal difficulty of leaving his three-year-old daughter and family in Nashville. > "Yesterday was pretty hard to have that phone call with my family and to leave my daughter," he said at a press event at Halas Hall. > "It felt great to get on the practice field and be back with Montez (Sweat), my road dog from Mississippi State. I'm excited to be a Chicago Bear."
Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen welcomed the addition, likening the trade to an early Christmas present. > "He's a hell of a football player with tremendous skill and personal character," Allen said, adding that Simmons’ professionalism and film study should help him integrate quickly. The Bears plan to phase Simmons in gradually, with his snap count to be determined for the upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks.
Teammates highlighted Simmons’ versatility. Guard Jonah Jackson called him a “dynamic player” who can excel both against the run and in pass rush, while defensive tackle Kentavius Street said Simmons will command double teams and open opportunities for other defenders. General manager Ryan Poles noted that interior pressure is a key part of the Bears’ defensive strategy and expects Simmons to elevate the play of his fellow linemen.
Simmons also addressed his past “painted nails” remarks about quarterback Caleb Williams. He said the comments were part of his on-field banter and that, now as teammates, he looks forward to supporting Williams. > "Those comments a couple of years ago about his nails are just lips. I'm looking forward to helping him get the ball," Simmons said.
Offensive coordinator Press Taylor recalled hearing the trade news at Halas Hall and joked about the timing of an upcoming game against the Titans, adding that he had previously found Simmons a challenging opponent while serving as Jacksonville’s offensive coordinator.