Montez Sweat Suspended for Violating NFL’s Drug Policy

Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat received a two-game suspension without pay for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing drugs. Currently in his eighth season in the league and his third full year with the Bears, Sweat will miss upcoming games against the Atlanta Falcons and New England Patriots, scheduled for Week 6 and Week 7 respectively. The league plans to reinstate him on October 23.

Details about the substance Sweat tested positive for were not shared. His suspension occurs as the Bears experience additional challenges on their defensive line. Dayo Odeyingbo exited the team’s recent loss to the Green Bay Packers due to a quad injury and has not returned to the field. Head coach Ben Johnson has yet to update Odeyingbo’s status as of Monday.

In a move to bolster their roster, the Bears activated Shemar Turner from the physically unable to perform list. Turner had been sidelined with a torn ACL sustained on October 26, 2025. Despite this reinforcement, defensive coordinator Dennis Allen stated it would be unrealistic to expect Turner or anyone recently off the PUP list to handle 50 to 70 plays in a game immediately. This implies that Turner’s presence won’t fill the gap left by Sweat in the near term.

This season, Sweat has contributed seven tackles and two sacks over the team’s first five games. His performance remains crucial to the Bears’ defense, notably affecting their game planning during his suspension.