Despite the Chicago Bears’ recent struggles against the Green Bay Packers, standout defensive end Montez Sweat has made a bold declaration regarding the Bears’ prospects against their rival in the upcoming 2024 season. Speaking on Chris Long’s Green Light podcast, Sweat reflected on the past season and expressed optimism about the Bears’ future.
Sweat’s journey in the previous season included a mid-season trade from the Washington Commanders to the Chicago Bears. Following his arrival, the Bears’ defensive performance notably improved. The team’s ranking in various defensive categories saw significant progress, including a rise from 28th to 20th in points allowed, 23rd to 12th in yards allowed, and 22nd to third in takeaways for the remainder of the season. Additionally, the Bears accumulated 11 sacks in the five games following Sweat’s acquisition
During the podcast, Long discussed the NFC North landscape, particularly mentioning Jordan Love and the potential rivalry between the Bears and Packers. Long’s remarks prompted Sweat to make a confident assertion: “I am letting you know right now, man, I am not losing to Green Bay this year. I can’t do it. I can’t do it, man. I am not losing Green Bay. We created a real rivalry over there.”
Sweat’s bold statement reflects his determination and sets the stage for an intense rivalry between the Bears and the Packers in the upcoming season. As a key player on what is shaping up to be a formidable defense, Sweat’s contributions will be crucial to the Bears’ success in challenging their divisional rivals
“I’m not losing to Green Bay this year. I can’t do it.”
– @_sweat9 pic.twitter.com/Rkc9BW7DTe
— Trey² (@PeanutChillman) April 9, 2024
The historical records between the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears are relatively even, with the Packers holding 107 wins to the Bears’ 95 since their first game in 1921. However, in recent years, the Bears have struggled against the Packers, holding a 2-18 record in their last 20 matchups.
Montez Sweat’s confident statement about not losing to the Packers in 2024 has sparked hope among Bears fans. Many are optimistic about the team’s future, especially with the potential addition of USC quarterback Caleb Williams in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Sweat’s preference for playing alongside an elite edge rusher suggests the Bears may be looking to bolster their defense with the ninth overall pick in the draft. This, coupled with the defensive-minded approach of head coach Matt Eberflus, has Chicago fans excited about the team’s prospects for the upcoming season.
Overall, optimism is high in Chicago, and fans are hopeful that Sweat’s statement will come true, leading to a successful season for the Bears, including victories over their rival Packers.
