Bears Break NFL Precedent for Jeffery Simmons, and Only a Super Bowl Will Justify the Cost

The Chicago Bears made NFL history on Thursday by trading for defensive tackle Jeffrey Simmons in a deal that, in the common draft era, no team has previously replicated. Chicago acquired Simmons from the Tennessee Titans in exchange for a pair of first-round picks—2027 and 2028—and a fourth-round pick in 2027, with a 2028 fifth-rounder returning to soften the draft-cost impact. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that no defensive tackle has ever been traded for multiple first-round selections since the common draft began in 1967. The article cites Simmons’ Pro Bowl and All-Pro recognition, including a first-team All-Pro nod in 2025, and advanced interior-defense production from Pro Football Focus, emphasizing his pass-rush and stoppage impact.