The 2025 NFL league year is in full swing, and while big-name free agents have found new homes and rookie buzz dominates headlines, several veterans are still on the market, waiting for the right team to make the call. One of those lingering free agents? Former Steelers edge rusher Preston Smith.
Smith, 32, is no rookie to the league grind. He’s logged a decade of NFL experience, racking up over 60 career sacks, and he’s still got enough gas in the tank to be a difference-maker off the edge. After a midseason trade brought him from the Packers to the Steelers in 2024, Smith put up 2.5 sacks and 19 tackles in eight appearances, not eye-popping, but solid work for a mid-year plug-in.
Now, SB Nation’s Aaron Leming has pegged Smith as a potential target for the Chicago Bears, who are on the hunt for edge depth following the exits of Jacob Martin and Darrell Taylor.
Smith’s resume speaks for itself:
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168 tackles and 24.5 sacks in 4 seasons with Washington
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44 sacks over 6 seasons with the Packers
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Veteran leadership, postseason experience, and the ability to adapt to multiple schemes
Originally drafted by Washington in the second round in 2015, Smith developed into a consistent threat on the outside. His stint with Green Bay, secured through a $52 million deal, solidified his status as a premier rotational pass rusher. His high motor, ability to set the edge, and football IQ still make him a valuable locker room presence and on-field contributor.
As the Steelers move into youth mode, releasing Smith and drafting Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer in the fourth round, the writing’s on the wall. Pittsburgh is going younger and faster. But that doesn’t mean Smith’s NFL days are done.
For Chicago, who’ve already signed former Colts DE Dayo Odeyingbo, adding a seasoned edge like Smith would be a smart move. He may not be a long-term solution, but for a team that wants immediate pressure and mentorship for younger guys, Smith checks every box.
At this stage of his career, he’s not looking for a massive payday, just one last ride with a team that values what he brings: toughness, experience, and a proven ability to get to the quarterback.
If the Bears want to bolster their edge unit and keep things steady while their rookies grow, Preston Smith might be the veteran presence they didn’t know they needed.
