Bears defensive lineman Montez Sweat is happy to be in a different environment.
The Commanders sent Sweat to the Bears at last season's trade deadline, and he quickly agreed to a four-year contract worth up to $98 million with Chicago.
in Chicago Sun-Times interview Sweat said this week that he was excited to leave Washington, where he compiled a 28-45-1 record during his four-and-a-half seasons there.
AP
“Losing and having people around you accept that loss as a normal part of your life has been detrimental and costly,” Sweat said. “It can affect you at times. You have to stay hungry and know you want to win.”
With Sweat in the lineup, the Bears defense immediately improved.
He recorded six sacks and 25 tackles in nine games since the trade.
“I've definitely been able to transition into a better situation for myself,” Sweat said.[Shoot]This year was the year I accomplished it all, my first Pro Bowl appearance, my first double-digit sacks, I got to earn some honors that I always wanted but never got to earn at Washington, so it was definitely a good end for me.”
Sweatt also said he has taken on a more vocal role.
“I've grown into a leader,” he said. “I've always liked to lead by example, but lately I feel like I'm the one doing the talking more, encouraging the players more and helping them be more confident.”
As for the manager, there are some good signs.
The team fired manager Ron Rivera in January and replaced him with Dan Quinn.
They also selected LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
A test of where each franchise stands will come when the Commanders host the Bears on Oct. 27.
