The Chicago Bears have a new question on everyone's mind: Will anyone surpass Montez Sweat for the team lead in sacks in 2026? Since arriving via trade midway through the 2023 season, Sweat has been the undisputed sack leader for the Bears. But as the new season approaches, it's time to examine whether his reign will continue.

Sweat's journey with the Bears has been a mixed bag. In his first partial season (2023), he racked up 6 sacks in just 9 games. However, in a full 16-game slate in 2024, he managed only 5.5 sacks—still enough to lead the team, but a noticeable dip. Last year, he bounced back with 10 sacks, proving he can still dominate. Yet, with only two double-digit sack seasons in his seven-year career, the question is fair: Can he hold onto the crown?

Let's break down the top contenders who could dethrone Sweat in 2026.

Austin Booker: The Rising Star
After an All-Pro preseason, expectations were sky-high for Booker entering his second season. But an injury sidelined him until Week 9 against the Bengals. He made an immediate impact with a sack in that game, but then went quiet until Week 15. Despite the slow start, he finished his sophomore campaign with 4.5 sacks in 10 games, including 3.5 in the final four contests. With Bears GM Ryan Poles yet to add another edge rusher, Booker looks poised to start opposite Sweat in 2026. If his snap count reaches career highs, he could flirt with double-digit sacks—and don't be surprised if he snatches the team sack crown.

Gervon Dexter Sr.: The Interior Threat
Another player expected to benefit from more talent around him is fourth-year pro Gervon Dexter Sr. "Big Dex" has steadily improved as a pass rusher, increasing his sack totals from 2.5 as a rookie to 5, then to 6 last season. Could he surpass Sweat? If Sweat repeats his 2024 output of just 5.5 sacks, absolutely. But it largely depends on Dexter taking a major step forward in his development and securing the lion's share of snaps at defensive tackle. He'll also need a revamped—and hopefully healthy—secondary to give him extra time to get to the quarterback.

So, Bears fans, who will lead the charge in 2026? Will Sweat hold off the challengers, or will a new name rise to the top? Stay tuned—this battle is just heating up.