Chicago Bears edge rusher Montez Sweat is set to return against the Seattle Seahawks on Monday night after serving a two-game suspension. His comeback would typically simplify the defensive line rotation for coordinator Dennis Allen, but the emergence of Daniel Hardy has created a more intriguing scenario.
Hardy seizes opportunity
While Sweat was sidelined, Hardy stepped into a larger defensive role and produced 1.5 sacks and four quarterback hits in victories over the Atlanta Falcons and New England Patriots. Head coach Ben Johnson noted Wednesday that Hardy has affected quarterbacks as well as anyone over the past two weeks and deserves increased defensive snaps. Hardy, who led the Bears with 19 special teams tackles in 2025, recorded a full sack against the Falcons and a half-sack versus the Patriots while maintaining his special teams duties.
Sweat faces renewed challenge
Sweat registered two sacks in his first five games before the suspension and had 10 sacks last season. Johnson praised his run defense but wants more impact as a pass rusher, noting opponents often slide protection toward Sweat or use extra contact to slow him. The coach emphasized that Hardy's production could create cleaner one-on-one opportunities for Sweat. Sweat told ESPN the positive test for a banned substance was accidental, accepted responsibility, and described the suspension as devastating.
Deeper rotation adds flexibility
With Dayo Odeyingbo on injured reserve, Chicago has needed multiple edge contributors. Austin Booker has four sacks through seven games, and Allen has also generated pressure by blitzing defensive backs such as Kyler Gordon. Against Seattle, Allen can deploy fresh rushers throughout the game and tailor combinations for early downs and passing situations. Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold possesses weapons that can punish a defense if pressure fails to arrive, making the Bears' expanded pass-rush options a significant asset.
