Montez Sweat: Why Was He Suspended? Mississippi State Career and Jersey Number

Montez Sweat is one of the most recognizable defensive players in the NFL. Known for his size, speed and ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks, Sweat developed into an elite pass rusher during his college career at Mississippi State. He later entered the NFL as a first-round draft pick and became a key defensive player for the Chicago Bears.

However, searches about Montez Sweat often raise questions about whether he was suspended, his connection to Mississippi State and the jersey number he wears.

Here is a closer look at his college career, suspension question and football background.

Why Was Montez Sweat Suspended?

There is no reliable public record confirming that Montez Sweat received a suspension during his Mississippi State football career or his NFL career. Therefore, claims that he was suspended should be treated cautiously.

Sweat played two seasons at Mississippi State, from 2017 through 2018. During that period, he became one of the most productive defensive ends in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

He earned first-team All-SEC recognition in both seasons and established himself as a major defensive prospect ahead of the 2019 NFL Draft.

It is important to distinguish a confirmed disciplinary suspension from an injury-related absence or an ordinary roster decision. There is no verified evidence establishing that a suspension affected his Mississippi State career.

Montez Sweat at Mississippi State

Montez Sweat played college football for the Mississippi State Bulldogs between 2017 and 2018. Before joining the program, he attended Michigan State and later played at Copiah-Lincoln Community College.

He arrived in Starkville in January 2017 and quickly became an important part of the Bulldogs’ defensive line.

During his two seasons, Sweat appeared in 26 games and recorded:

• 101 total tackles
• 29.5 tackles for loss
• 22 sacks
• One forced fumble
• One fumble recovery

His ability to get into the backfield made him one of the most dangerous defensive players in the SEC.

Montez Sweat’s 2017 Season

Sweat made an immediate impact in his first season with Mississippi State in 2017. He recorded 10.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss, leading the SEC in both categories.

His performances earned him first-team All-SEC honors from the Associated Press and conference coaches.

He also helped the Bulldogs finish with nine victories, making the season an important step in the development of the team’s defense.

Montez Sweat’s 2018 Season

Sweat returned for his senior season in 2018 instead of entering the NFL Draft early. He continued to perform at an impressive level.

He recorded 11.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss in 13 appearances. His outstanding performances earned him first-team All-American recognition from several organizations.

He was also named a semifinalist for the Bednarik Award, which recognizes the nation’s top defensive player.

His final college season strengthened his reputation as one of the leading defensive prospects in the 2019 draft class.

What Number Does Montez Sweat Wear?

Montez Sweat wears No. 98 for the Chicago Bears.

The defensive lineman also wore No. 9 while playing for Mississippi State during the 2018 season.

His jersey number has become familiar to Bears fans since he joined the franchise in 2023. The number 98 identifies him as one of Chicago’s prominent defensive players.

Montez Sweat’s NFL Career

Sweat entered the 2019 NFL Draft after completing his college career at Mississippi State. The Washington Redskins selected him with the 26th overall pick in the first round.

He made an immediate transition to professional football and became an important part of Washington’s pass rush.

In October 2023, Washington traded Sweat to the Chicago Bears. He subsequently signed a four-year contract extension with Chicago.

His combination of length, athleticism and pass-rushing ability has made him a valuable defensive player in the NFL.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was Montez Sweat suspended?

There is no verified public record confirming that Montez Sweat was suspended during his Mississippi State or NFL career.

Did Montez Sweat play for Mississippi State?

Yes. Sweat played for the Mississippi State Bulldogs in 2017 and 2018 after transferring from Copiah-Lincoln Community College.

What number is Montez Sweat?

He wears No. 98 for the Chicago Bears. He wore No. 9 at Mississippi State in 2018.

How many sacks did Montez Sweat record at Mississippi State?

He recorded 22 sacks in 26 games across two seasons with Mississippi State.

When was Montez Sweat drafted?

The Washington Redskins selected him with the 26th overall pick in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft.

Conclusion

Montez Sweat built his reputation through outstanding performances at Mississippi State before becoming a first-round NFL draft selection. His college career included 22 sacks, 101 tackles and two consecutive first-team All-SEC selections.

Regarding the suspension question, no reliable public evidence confirms that he was suspended. He currently wears No. 98 for the Chicago Bears, while his Mississippi State jersey number was No. 9.