Three teams that should pursue Josh Sweat this offseason

As we’ve seen so many times in playoff football, the Philadelphia Eagles' dominant victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX reminded everyone just how valuable it is to be able to pressure the quarterback while only rushing four consistently.

A big part of that equation for Philadelphia was the play of Josh Sweat, who had 2.5 sacks and showed everybody why he’s in line to receive a big payday when free agency opens this March.

Spotrac currently projects Sweat to land a three-year deal worth north of $18 million per year. Here are three teams that should seriously consider making a big splash to land him this offseason.

Washington Commanders

The Commanders are in a good spot headed into the offseason. It’s no secret that they must improve on defense and with just north of $80 million in cap space, they have the resources to do that.

Washington has invested heavily at defensive tackle between Daron Payne, Jonathan Allen, and Johnny Newton, so if they’re looking to make a big splash to improve their pass rush look for it to be at edge rusher.

While Washington needs to make more than just one move to fix their defense, adding Sweat would give Washington a good group of pass rushers and give the defense an identity next season.  

Being that Jayden Daniels is still on a rookie deal for the next three seasons, the Commanders have the flexibility to dish out big money to free agents on three or four-year deals this offseason.  With Sweat not turning 28 until March, he’s someone that would fit well with Washington’s timeline to maximize this window of having a star quarterback on a rookie deal.

Chicago Bears

The Bears currently have a solid group of pass-rushers, but the unit needs another high-level producer opposite Montez Sweat to be a real strength and this move would accomplish that.

Coming into the offseason, Chicago has $65 million in cap space which gives them the flexibility to make a big splash like this while still addressing other needs.

Another factor for the Bears to consider is that in order to turn around a franchise that hasn’t had a winning season since 2018, it’s important to add veteran players like Sweat to lead the charge in establishing a winning culture.

Green Bay Packers

Green Bay currently has a solid group of pass rushers, but they aren’t at the level they need to be to be a major factor in a playoff run. 

After a slightly disappointing season from Rashan Gary and Lukas Van Ness, yet to take a big step, investing at edge rusher this offseason is something Green Bay needs to consider.  

With $37 million in cap space to work with, they have the resources to make an aggressive move like this to improve their pass rush.  

This move would also provide the added bonus of removing a key piece from the Super Bowl champion Eagles who will come in next season as the favorites to win the NFC.