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Montez Sweat

Montez Sweat Player Profile

Summary

Montez Sweat is a defensive end/edge‑rusher currently playing for the Chicago Bears in the NFL, after being traded from the Washington Commanders in 2023. He was selected in the 1st round (26th overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft. CBS Sports
At approximately 6′6″ and ~270 lbs (draft listing ~260–262), Sweat possesses exceptional physical traits for the edge position. CBS Sports Over his collegiate career at Mississippi State Bulldogs he established himself as a top pass‑rushing prospect, and in the NFL he has been a consistent contributor, including earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2023.

Strengths

  • Athletic freak traits: Sweat ran a 4.41‑second 40‑yard dash at ~260 lbs, showing rare speed for his size. CBS Sports His length (arms ~35¼″) and size give him a huge physical advantage. CBS Sports

  • Length and hand usage: He uses his long arms and active hands effectively to engage blockers, rip or jab, and create separation on the edge. Last Word On Sports

  • Run‑defense and pursuit: Despite being viewed primarily as a pass rusher, he has shown competence in run defense, setting the edge, chasing down plays and showing tenacity. Pride Of Detroit

  • Motor and effort: Known for finishing plays, hustle to the whistle, and bringing consistent effort on each down. Saturday Blitz

  • Versatility in schematic fit: Because of his length, athleticism and physical tools, he can be moved around the front, used in stunts or varied alignments, which adds value. Last Word On Sports

Weaknesses

  • Flexibility and bend at the edge: Due to his height/length, Sweat has sometimes struggled with pad level, staying low, and bending around the edge especially when faced with agile tackles or tricky blocks. 49ers Webzone

  • Rush plan / counter‑moves refinement: While his tools are elite, some evaluators noted that his move set was less refined, with a need for improved counters, plan vs blockers, and variation in his pass rush. Pride Of Detroit

  • Consistency / ceiling questions: Some pre‑draft analysis suggested that while his floor was high, the ceiling might be limited if technique and flexibility don’t improve. Pride Of Detroit

  • Production dip / expectation vs contract: More recently, his production has seen downturns relative to expectations linked to his contract, and some metrics suggest he’s not always maximized his physical gifts in every season. SI

Fit & Outlook

Montez Sweat projects as a very impactful edge defender, with a high floor given his physical gifts and proven production, but also with meaningful upside if he continues to refine technique and maintain consistency.

  • Short‑term: He should remain a primary pass‑rushing option for the Bears, expect double‑teams, high snap counts, and opportunities to make splash plays.

  • Mid‑term (next 2‑3 years): If he improves his bend, counters, flexibility and consistency, he could move into the “top of the tier” edge rusher category—someone who shapes offenses and commands attention weekly.

  • Ceiling vs Floor:

    • Floor: A strong starter edge rusher, says ~8‑12 sacks a season, good disruption and consistent production.

    • Ceiling: A dominant edge who can chase Pro Bowl / All‑Pro status, double‑digit sacks, high pressures, and be a foundational defensive lineman.

  • Key for next step: Staying healthy, refining technique (especially bend, counter moves), adapting to schemes that maximize his strengths (length, speed‑to‑power), and maintaining high effort while translating tools into consistent dominance.

  • Risk factors: If his flexibility or technique stagnate, or if production continues to dip while he carries a high contract, teams may begin to question value relative to cost.