Commanders Acquire Promising Rookie Pass Rusher from Bears
After spending most of his rookie season on the Chicago Bears' practice squad, defensive lineman Jalen Harris is now joining the Washington Commanders.
Washington claimed Harris from the Bears' practice squad on November 20, as noted in the official transaction records of Washington.
With the loss of defensive end Efe Obada for an unknown duration and ongoing injury concerns for DE James Smith-Williams, the Commanders sought to bolster their defensive line. Harris, who signed as an undrafted free agent from the University of Arizona with the Bears, showed potential during preseason and, although not making the main roster, remained with the team on the practice squad.
In recent weeks, Harris has become the third Bears player, and the second defensive lineman, to be signed from their practice squad. Previously, the Atlanta Falcons acquired defensive lineman Travis Bell, and center Doug Kramer was taken by the Arizona Cardinals, though he was later released and re-signed by the Bears.
Meanwhile, the Bears' pass rush has seen a significant uplift with the addition of former Commanders edge Montez Sweat, acquired in a trade involving a 2024 second-round pick. Sweat's arrival has invigorated Chicago's defense, contributing with hurries, quarterback hits, and sacks. His impact has been felt beyond the stats, with coaches and teammates acknowledging his positive influence on the field and in the locker room.
Although losing Jalen Harris, the Bears' defensive line, including Yannick Ngakoue and DeMarcus Walker, has been performing well recently, with Sweat's addition proving to be a strategic gain for the team.
| POLL | ||
21 NOVEMBRE | 68 ANSWERS Commanders Acquire Promising Rookie Pass Rusher from Bears Should the Bears sign a new pass rusher? | ||
| Yes | 50 | 73.5 % |
| No | 18 | 26.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
