The first two weeks of the NFL’s free agency period is in the books and for the Chicago Bears, there are still some holes on he roster to address. With Chicago’s cap situation, they don’t have much to spend in terms of free agents.

They will likely make some moves to free up some cap space but is there a move to make to address a big need?

NFL.com’s Matt Okada went through the biggest needs for each team, for the Bears he listed secondary. He also had a solution for the Bears to fix that secondary and it includes making a few moves, like a trade for a veteran.

Analyst urges Chicago Bears to trade for a veteran

In Okada’s piece, his solution for the Bears is to draft a safety at No. 25 overall to pair with Coby Bryant. He also wants the Bears to trade for a veteran at defensive back to pair along with Jaylon Johnson. After the Bears lost Nahshon Wright, they need to find some depth at the position.

“It’s probably going to take several more moves, as Chicago needs to not just patch the holes but improve its defense to compete for the division again in 2026,” Okada wrote. “Many mocks have the Bears addressing the defensive line with their first-round pick (No. 25 overall), but drafting Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren there would be a strong addition to the secondary rebuild. An aggressive trade for a starting DB also wouldn’t hurt: I’d make calls for guys like Denzel Ward, Marlon Humphrey, Riley Moss and Budda Baker.”

Those are all very interesting names but do they make sense for the Bears? Ward would be an upgrade over what the Bears have now in Tyrique Stevenson who struggled again last season. Terell Smith is set to return after missing all of last year but will he be able to be counted on?

If Chicago does want to solve that rather than drafting a defensive back, it would work out. But something tells me they will stand pat and look at the draft to fill the void.

The post Chicago Bears urged to trade for key position ahead of 2026 NFL Draft appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Of all the needs that the Chicago Bears have this off-season, adding offensive linemen to protect Caleb Williams must remain a top priority. For all the talk about adding on defense, the fact remains that the Bears will not go anywhere if Williams is constantly under duress in 2026.

Already, Chicago has traded DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills for center Garrett Bradbury, who will replace the recently retired Drew Dalman. They also have brought back backup swing tackle Braxton Jones.

This all being said, Chicago would do well to address the offensive line even more in free agency, and they could nab on of the Green Bay Packers‘ remaining free agents.

The Chicago Bears named as potential suitor for Green Bay Packers LT Rasheed Walker

Bleacher Report recently released a list of the top 50 free agents still remaining in the NFL. They also named potential landing spots for the top ten players on their list.

Their number one overall free agent remaining is former Packers left tackle Rasheed Walker, and they named the Bears as a suitor:

“Starting-caliber left tackles are always at a premium, and while Rasheed Walker isn’t elite, he is starting-caliber. Pro Football Focus ranked him 41st among 89 qualifying offensive tackles in pass protection this past season, and Walker has appeared in all 17 games in each of the past three seasons.

“Having turned 26 in February, Walker has long-term value and room to improve.

“While Walker’s technique and play strength could both be improved, his 6’6”, 324-pound frame and strong movement skills are desirable. He has the baseline traits needed to grow in a variety of blocking schemes.

“Walker should be the top free-agent target of every team with a need at left tackle and money to spend. Dan Moore Jr., who is probably a tier below Walker, commanded a four-year, $84 million contract a year ago.”

Potential Suitors: Chicago Bears, Cleveland Browns

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears may not be able to do Maxx Crosby trade after latest report
• Caleb Williams’ two-word message for Bears’ star
• Bears sign Jedrick Wills Jr. in NFL free agency

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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It appeared that the Maxx Crosby situation had been settled when the Las Vegas Raiders agreed to trade the star defensive end to the Baltimore Ravens, effectively ending the Chicago Bears‘ chances of landing him.

However, the Ravens have since backed out of the trade, which has re-opened the door for the Bears to swoop in and snatch Crosby.

But is it really advisable for Chicago to do that at this point? The Bears were apparently willing to surrender a pair of first-round picks to bag Crosby, but with concerns emerging regarding Crosby’s knee, the Raiders have probably lost some leverage (even if they are maintaining their asking price for now).

There are certainly other viable pass-rushing targets available for Chicago, both via free agency and trade. And of course, the Bears could always take their chances in the NFL Draft, which is slated to be rather deep at edge rusher.

One possibility for Chicago? New York Giants star Kayvon Thibodeaux.

The Chicago Bears should try to trade for Kayvon Thibodeaux

Thibodeaux has been floated as an option for the Bears since the end of the season, and it still makes perfect sense.

Yes, the 25-year-old is coming off of a rough year in which he logged just 2.5 sacks in 10 games, but he has displayed his potential in the past. During his second NFL season in 2023, for example, Thibodeaux racked up 50 tackles, 11.5 sacks and three forced fumbles.

The Giants drafted Abdul Carter last spring and also have Brian Burns on the roster, so with Thibodeaux entering the final year of his deal, it doesn’t make much sense for them to keep him. Surely, New York would be willing to part with Thibodeaux in exchange for a Day 2 pick, and Chicago might be willing to pay that price.

The Bears could send the 89th overall pick to the Giants in exchange for Thibodeaux, which would give Chicago a very talented player alongside of Montez Sweat at a much more affordable price than Crosby.

Obviously, going from Crosby to Thibodeaux is a pretty steep dropoff, but it’s not like Thibodeaux is a bum.

The Bears should absolutely be on the phone with Big Blue trying to complete a deal here.

The post Bears could swing much cheaper trade amid Maxx Crosby drama appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears have definitely been active in free agency, but they haven’t made any significant splashes, which is certainly disappointing for a fanbase that was initially expecting the team to swing a trade for Maxx Crosby.

After failing to land Crosby, the Bears still have a need at edge rusher, and while it’s possible they may roll with Austin Booker as their No. 2 pass rusher alongside of Montez Sweat next season (or simply punt to the NFL Draft), there is still time for Chicago to add some depth at the position.

Fortunately, numerous intriguing edge rushers remain available in free agency, and while Trey Hendrickson probably won’t be taking his talents to the Windy City, there are some affordable — bur productive — options left.

Anthony Miller of Bear Goggles On has cited a very interesting potential target in that regard: Jadeveon Clowney.

The Chicago Bears could sign Jadeveon Clowney

Clowney has never really lived up to the initial expectations placed upon him when the Houston Texans selected him with the No. 1 overall pick back in 2014, but he has still carved out a very solid NFL career.

This past season, for example, Clowney registered 41 tackles and 8.5 sacks with the Dallas Cowboys, marking the fifth time in his professional tenure that he has logged eight or more sacks. He would also come rather cheap for the Bears.

“With his predicted price only being over $5 million, the Bears would be crazy to not consider signing him at that price,” Miller wrote.

Chicago currently has a tick over $10 million in cap space, so there is definitely enough room for the club to sign Clowney. And considering how effective he has been even in his older age (he turned 33 years old in February), it seems like a slam-dunk move for the Bears.

Clowney played in 44 percent of the Cowboys’ defensive snaps in 2025, so he could fill part-time role in Chicago’s edge rusher rotation. And if the Bears want even more insurance, they could then select another pass rusher in the middle to later rounds of the draft next month.

No, Clowney isn’t a superstar, but he is an impact player, and Chicago should absolutely be on the phone with his agent trying to bring him aboard.

The post Bears connected to move for former No. 1 pick in potential free agent coup appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Ever since the Super Bowl, there has been buzz about the possibility of the Chicago Bears chasing Kenneth Walker in NFL free agency. The four-year NFL veteran is coming off of a season that saw him rush for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns. However, it was his performance in Super Bowl LX that has made him a hot name on the market.

Walker rushed for 135 yards and had 161 all-purpose yards in the Seattle Seahawks‘ dominating win over the New England Patriots.

But while he is expected to be among one of the most sought-after players in NFL free agency, it does not appear that the Bears will be the ones doing the chasing.

The Chicago Bears are not likely to sign Kenneth Walker in NFL free agency

According to Bryan Perez who covers the Bears for Sports Illustrated, Chicago fans should not count on the team being players for Walker for one very simple reason: they do not need him.

Perez wrote:

“The Bears simply don’t have a major need at running back.

“Chicago already features a productive backfield led by D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai, allowing the offense to smash opposing defenses with high-level production. With the offensive system under head coach Ben Johnson designed to spread touches in a running back by committee, investing the $15 million per season or more that it could take to land Walker would seem foolish.”

This is most certainly true, as Chicago must focus more on improving its defensive line and finding quality offensive line depth. Those positions are not cheap, and free agency dollars will be better spent focusing on them instead of on running back.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears agree to deal with defensive end before free agency
• Bears’ strange Maxx Crosby report can only mean one thing
• Bears could land monster 6-foot-4, 288 pound pass rusher

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears have a number of needs that they need to address this off-season. Undoubtedly, with the legal tampering period of NFL free agency opening today, they will have plenty of opportunities to do so. Along with the NFL Draft next month, Chicago can add a number of talented players to their roster.

That being said, they would also do well to bring back some of their own impending free agents. Already, the Bears have agreed to deals with D’Marco Jackson and Daniel Hardy.

With players allowed to talk to teams starting today, the Bears would do well to lock up another player, Kevin Byard, as soon as possible.

The Chicago Bears should re-sign safety Kevin Byard

One of the positions that Chicago needs to address quickly in free agency is safety. Both of their starting safeties from the last few years, Byard and Jaquan Brisker, are set to hit the open market.

Brisker is going to get a nice second NFL contract from another team, but the 32-year-old Byard will be more affordable, and perhaps even better in the short-term. After all, the was an All-Pro last season while leading the league with seven interceptions.

Brisker struggled with injuries early in his career but, because he is younger, will command a longer and more expensive deal. On the other hand, Byard will get a shorter contract due to his age.

The fact is that the Bears defense led the NFL in turnovers forced last year, and Byard was the one who forced the most, account for nearly one-third of their interceptions total.

If Chicago wants to both improve on defense while still ensuring they can generate takeaways, it only makes sense to bring Byard back.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears agree to deal with defensive end before free agency
• Bears’ strange Maxx Crosby report can only mean one thing
• Bears could land monster 6-foot-4, 288 pound pass rusher

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

The post Chicago Bears urged to re-sign All-Pro as highest priority move in NFL free agency appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are prepared to be aggressive during the legal tampering period of the 2026 NFL offseason. They have some holes that they need to fill and some cap space to play around with. While the legal tampering period begins tomorrow, there is one free agent who they have been reportedly linked with. Let’s take a closer look at who it is and why he’s someone Bears fans are familiar with.

The Chicago Bears could target Alex Anzalone in free agency

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler wrote an article discussing what he has heard heading into the legal tampering period portion of free agency. He would discuss what the Bears could be doing on the defensive side of the ball. Below is what he wrote:

“The Chicago Bears freed up around $17 million in cap space with the D.J. Moore trade, which they will need in free agency to aid the defense. Yes, they could use pass-rush help. But I don’t sense Chicago is desperate for a splashy pass rusher. Much will depend on price. Interior rush help could be the way to go. To replace Tremaine Edmunds, Alex Anzalone is a name to watch. Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen was with him in New Orleans and he’s good in coverage. At safety, my sense is the Bears will attempt to re-sign Kevin Byard III over the weekend but will let Jaquan Brisker walk.”

The third-round pick in the 2017 draft has been with the Detroit Lions for the previous five seasons, meaning he is comfortable in the NFC North. Anzalone played in 16 games last season and recorded 95 total tackles (52 solo, 43 assisted) with four tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, six quarterback hits, nine pass deflections, and an interception.

With the Bears linked to an outside linebacker, it will be intriguing to see if this is the big splash they want to make or if there are other names that will be joining Chicago for the 2026 season. Fowler did not mention a projected contract, so that will also be a major factor in whether this will actually happen.

The post This free agent is a name to watch for the Chicago Bears this offseason appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears missed out on swinging a trade for star pass rusher Maxx Crosby this past week, as the Las Vegas Raiders sent Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens for a pair of first-round draft picks.

The Bears were viewed by many as favorites to land Crosby for quite some time, but apparently, Chicago was never that interested, as ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that while the Bears “monitored the situation,” they never really made a strong push to land him.

Naturally, Bears fans were aggravated over that fact. Chicago just captured the NFC North division title and won a playoff game, so the hope was that the Bears would acquire Crosby to take that next step into Super Bowl contention.

Instead, Chicago decided to stand pat, ultimately choosing to hold on to its draft capital.

Given the steep price for Crosby, the Bears’ decision is wholly understandable, and it can only mean one thing heading into 2026.

The Chicago Bears had a clear reason for avoiding Maxx Crosby

We know that Chicago needs help with its pass rush, as only two Bears players registered five sacks or more in 2025: Montez Sweat (10) and Gervon Dexter (six).

However, there is one player on Chicago’s roster who seems to be a clear breakout candidate for the front seven next season: Austin Booker.

Booker missed some time due to injury in 2025, but he managed 35 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 12 quarterback hits in just 10 games. He flashed significant potential this past year, and it stands to reason that Ryan Poles and Bears brass are hopeful that he will raise his game to the next level in 2026.

Plus, this NFL Draft class is very deep at the edge rusher position, so Chicago can always pluck one in the draft next month.

You can surely understand why the Bears — who also have salary cap issues, mind you — did not want to part with two first-round draft choices in exchange for Crosby, who, by the way, is recovering from knee surgery.

Booker could turn into a double-digit sack player next fall, and Chicago may very well draft its next stud at the end of April.

It’s easy to be frustrated over the Bears’ choice to steer clear of Crosby, but Chicago fans may end up relieved when the dust settles.

The post Chicago Bears’ strange Maxx Crosby report can only mean one thing appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears have a great deal of work to do this off-season in regards to their roster. They have certainly set themselves up for success, though, with the cost-saving measures they have taken so far. While Drew Dalman‘s retirement was unexpected, it did clear up some much-needed cap space. Furthermore, Chicago has parted ways with wide receiver DJ Moore and linebacker Tremaine Edmunds.

All told, these moves have given the Bears about $34 million in cap space with which to work.

That being said, they have many needs to fill and must be smart about how they spend this money. One player that they likely will not choose to pay is safety Jaquan Brisker, who is set to be a free agent.

Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker could join Matt Eberflus on the San Francisco 49ers

Earlier this week, it was reported that former Bears head coach Matt Eberflus had been hired as an assistant defensive coach by the San Francisco 49ers. He is not the defensive coordinator; that role was filled by Raheem Morris.

Eberflus himself was fired as the defensive coordinator of Dallas Cowboys after just one season earlier this winter. Now that he is with San Francisco, Matt Barrows, who covers the 49ers for The Athletic, believes Brisker could join him there:

“The 49ers showed interest in Brisker before the 2022 draft, before Eberflus’ Bears ended up taking him in the second round. He was also Brown’s teammate at Penn State. If the 49ers want to spend money to shore up the position, Brisker would be a good addition.”

The only problem with this, as Barrows notes later, is that San Francisco is pretty well set at the safety position already. With other needs on their roster, they likely would not give Brisker the kind of salary that he could receive elsewhere.

That being said, a reunion with Eberflus would be a benefit for the soon-to-be former Bears safety. He allowed the lowest completion percentages of his career playing under the former Chicago head coach, and might be less prone to giving up big plays if he were to sign in San Francisco.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears trade of DJ Moore to Bills is a win-win for both teams
• Bears receive high grade for DJ Moore trade with Bills
• Bears release Tremaine Edmunds ahead of NFL free agency

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears had quite the busy day on Thursday. First, they traded wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills for a second round pick. This move freed up millions of dollars in salary cap space that the team can use to address other needs on their roster.

Not long after the trade was announced, it was also revealed that Chicago had released linebacker Tremaine Edmunds in a move to free up even more salary cap space. The Bears had previously given Edmunds permission to seek out a trade. However, it is obvious now that no suitors could be found.

Chicago Bears linebacker Tremaine Edmunds could sign with the New York Giants

After Chicago released Edmunds, several NFL analysts responded to the news with the team they believe will be his next landing spot:

I mean……. Probably a Giant https://t.co/WfLvcJH3qF

— Alex Wilson (@AlexWilsonESM) March 6, 2026

The Giants had interest in trading for Tremaine Edmunds. They will definitely have interest in signing him now that he’s a free agent. https://t.co/Eqep06d12G

— Anthony Rivardo (@Anthony_Rivardo) March 6, 2026

We’ll find out how real the Giants’ interest is now because no one was trading for that contract https://t.co/kDsREdXcCF

— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) March 6, 2026

Never got the sense Giants were interested in trading for Edmunds. We’ll see if they have interest now that he’s a feee agent. https://t.co/UqsAN2rWjk

— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) March 6, 2026

As one can see, the New York Giants were heavily linked to Edmunds in potential trade talks. However, due to his immense cap hit, they, and every other NFL team, decided not to trade for him. Now, they can sign him for less money as a free agent.

Meanwhile, the Bears saved $15 million by releasing the Pro Bowl linebackers and now have $34 million in salary cap space available.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears trade of DJ Moore to Bills is a win-win for both teams
• Bears receive high grade for DJ Moore trade with Bills
• Bears release Tremaine Edmunds ahead of NFL free agency

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears completed a blockbuster trade with the Buffalo Bills earlier this week, sending wide receiver D.J. Moore and a fifth-round pick to the Bills in exchange for a second-rounder.

It was quite the return for a Bears squad that had been very disappointed with Moore’s production over the last couple of seasons, and now, they’ll have another early-round draft choice to add another piece to a roster that won the NFC North this past season.

But perhaps Chicago isn’t done wheeling and dealing.

Bleacher Report’s Brad Gagnon has linked the Bears to yet another major trade with Buffalo, tabbing Chicago as a top landing spot for tackle Dion Dawkins.

Considering the Bears have a need at left tackle, acquiring Dawkins would make sense, but is it too little, too late for Chicago to land the five-time Pro Bowler?

Should the Chicago Bears steer clear of Dion Dawkins?

Dawkins has long been one of the best tackles in football, but Gagnon noted that the 31-year-old has shown some signs of decline.

“Remember how the Bill Belichick-era Patriots famously knew exactly when to cut bait on so-called staples? This might be that time for Buffalo and Dawkins, who gave up a career-high 42 pressures and posted the worst Pro Football Focus pass-blocking efficiency grade of his career in 2025,” Gagnon wrote.

But how bad was Dawkins really?

He still posted an 81.5 pass-blocking grade as a whole this past season, and his 73.9 overall PFF grade was very respectable.

The biggest issue when it comes to Dawkins is his $24.4 million cap hit for 2026. The Bears have a difficult financial situation as it is, so absorbing Dawkins would prove difficult. The veteran has two years remaining on his deal, and his cap hit jumps to $25 million in 2027.

Chicago might be better off just finding a one-year stopgap at left tackle while it waits for Ozzy Trapilo to get healthy. Or maybe the Bears can simply draft someone if they don’t think Trapilo is the long-term answer to protect Caleb Williams’ blind side.

All things considered, trading for Dawkins is probably not the way to go for Chicago.

The post Chicago Bears linked to yet another major trade with Buffalo Bills appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Sports broadcaster Colin Cowherd urged the Chicago Bears to take bold action to improve their defense and lineup. After significant roster activity this week, the team is overhauling its lineup.

Starting center Drew Dalman shocked the team by retiring from the NFL at just 27. His departure forced Bears General Manager Ryan Poles to quickly adjust his strategy ahead of free agency negotiations. Adding to the shakeup, the team traded wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills for a second-round pick.

Many analysts say the Bears could pursue Raiders defensive standout Maxx Crosby to fill a major defensive need. Crosby has emerged as one of the NFL’s most talked-about trade candidates this offseason.

Despite interest from several teams, the 28-year-old is not a free agent and remains under contract with the Raiders. He signed a three-year, $106.5 million extension in March 2025, keeping him under contract until 2029. It made him one of the league’s highest-paid non-quarterbacks. The All-Pro defensive end has spent his entire career with the Raiders since being drafted in 2019.

Crosby remained one of the NFL’s most productive defensive players despite the Raiders finishing with a 3–14 record last season. He recorded 10 sacks, 73 tackles, and 28 tackles for loss. He also had two fumbles and an interception in 15 games. Those performances earned him his fifth straight Pro Bowl nod, despite a knee injury sidelining him late in the season.

Being benched for the final two games of the season reportedly sparked tensions between Crosby and the Raiders. He strongly opposed the move, insisting he was physically capable of finishing the regular season. According to CBS Sports, Crosby’s relationship with the team is strained. Multiple teams, including Chicago, are reportedly interested in him if he becomes available.

Colin Cowherd urges Chicago Bears to pursue Maxx Crosby trade amid roster needs

Cowherd called on the Bears to pursue a trade for Crosby. Speaking on his program “The Herd,” he argued that the team’s current lineup situation makes the move both urgent and logical.

“Go for it. Ben Johnson’s an aggressive guy. Ryan Poles is an aggressive GM. Go for it,” Cowherd said. “It’s the number one need: edge pressure. It’s not a roll of the dice.”

The veteran sports broadcaster called it a rare opportunity for an elite talent to become available.

“He’s an elite player,” he said. “[He] leads the NFL since he entered in tackles for losses. He’s two years younger than Myles Garrett, who was just the defensive player of the year… You have to strike when the iron is hot.”

Cowherd noted that Dalman’s sudden loss shows how quickly an NFL lineup can fall apart. He added that Chicago must make the most of the final two years of quarterback Caleb Williams’ rookie contract before his salary rises.

“Dalman, who they just paid a fortune to last year, retired. At 27, he’s like, ‘Yeah, I’m done.’ Interior O-lineman beat you up physically. I’m done,” Cowherd said. “And so the Bears with Caleb Williams were the number one pass-blocking unit and the number seven run-blocking unit, and anchoring that was this great center from the Falcons that they made a deal for a year ago, Drew Dalman. He just retired. And so you only got two years left with Caleb Williams on the rookie deal. He’s going to get expensive real quick.”

“Ben Johnson is an aggressive guy. Ryan Poles is an aggressive GM. Go for it… It’s not a roll of the dice, he’s an elite player.”@colincowherd think the Bears should go all-in and trade for Maxx Crosby pic.twitter.com/qn5VLN8S6r

— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) March 4, 2026

Bears to look to opposing teams’ moves for inspiration

Cowherd also drew parallels to other NFL teams that took passive or aggressive approaches to roster decisions. He suggested those examples could serve as a blueprint for the Bears.

“Cincinnati Bengals let (their star defensive end) Trey Hendrickson walk. Well, they’ve been talking about a new contract for two years. They don’t sign him, they’re passive,” he said.

“The (Los Angeles) Rams just did it,” he continued. “Rams said, ‘Listen, we need one element to our roster. We’re close, but we gotta get an elite corner.’ There were some good corners in the first round of the draft, they’re like ‘Nah, let them, let’s go get (All-Pro cornerback Trent) McDuffie’.”

The broadcaster noted that Crosby’s admiration for Johnson could make the trade easier to finalize.

“By the way, here’s Maxx Crosby, who apparently loves Bears coach Ben Johnson,” Cowherd said. After watching a short video of Crosby in an interview, saying that he respects Johnson “a lot,” he added: “Yeah, it sounds like he’s just planting a seed for the Chicago Bears.”

The post Colin Cowherd urges Chicago Bears to ‘go all-in’ on $106.5 million star appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Despite the Chicago Bears defense struggling badly on the pass rush side, the secondary was able to dominate in the takeaway game, leading the NFL in takeaways.

More news: Chicago Bears make bombshell trade with Bills for curious compensation: Report

One of the biggest reasons the Bears dominated in takeaways was due to defensive captain and fan favorite Kevin Byard.

The 2025 leader in interceptions will be a free agent when the league year for the NFL begins next week. However as expected, the Bears have no desire to let Byard leave.

The odds of Kevin Byard returning to the Chicago Bears keep increasing

More news: Chicago Bears: missing pieces on offense and defense revealed of 2026 NFL season

According to ESPN 1000’s David Kaplan, the chance of the Bears bringing the All-Pro safety back for 2026 is a “70-30” chance.

On his “Coffee with Kap” segment via his YouTube, Kaplan said that he was told that both the Bears and Byard are working to agree on a deal that is fair for both sides.

https://Twittercom/thekapman/status/2028787707837591877?

It seems increasingly likely that the Bears will be bringing back their star safety for what could be the start of a “Super Bowl window” in 2026.

Byard’s leadership and playmaking ability is a major value to this Bears team.

The post Chances of Chicago Bears resigning top safety increasing: Report appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears had one of the most drastic turnarounds in 2025. After going 5-12 the year before, Chicago hired Ben Johnson as their head coach. Additionally, they surrounded him and franchise quarterback Caleb Williams with the tools they needed to revamp their offense.

Defensively, the Bears brought in Dennis Allen as their defensive coordinator. Under his guidance, Chicago’s defense led the NFL in turnovers forced, but ranked near the bottom of the league in yards and points allowed per game.

Additionally, the Bears are primed to lose several of their most important players to free agency. As a result, the needs the team must focus on are clearly identifiable.

The Chicago Bears are urged to acquire Maxx Crosby (or Trey Hendrickson) and address left tackle

Bleacher Report recently released an article in which they identified the missing pieces on offense and defense for each NFL team. Offensively, the Bears are in pretty good shape. Or at least they were until Drew Dalman suddenly retired. Additionally, the prospect of losing Braxton Jones in free agency has revealed a bit of a concern at left tackle:

“Unfortunately, the Bears will again be searching for an answer at left tackle. Ozzy Trapilo’s promising rookie season ended on a disappointing note with a patellar tear that could see him miss all of 2026. Bringing back Braxton Jones or drafting another Day 2 project like Markel Bell could be an option.”

Ozzy Trapillo will not be able to play in 2026 and Jones is not guaranteed to return in free agency. Left tackle, and now center, must be key areas of focus this off-season.

On the defensive side of the ball, it should come as no surprise that BR, like many fans and other analysts, would love to see the Bears add Maxx Crosby via trade or sign Trey Hendrickson in free agency. Indeed, either one of those moves would greatly benefit Chicago’s defense.

That being said, they also must address the safety position with Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker hitting free agency.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears’ QB Caleb Williams’ message after massive career announcement
• Reason for Bears’ center Drew Dalman retirement revealed
• Jaquan Brisker predicted to leave Bears for a NFC rebuilding team

For More Chicago Sports

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The post Chicago Bears: missing pieces on offense and defense revealed of 2026 NFL season appeared first on ChiCitySports.

It is no secret that the Chicago Bears are going to have to address their safety room this off-season. After an All-Pro and Pro Bowl nod in 2025, Kevin Byard is set to become a free agent. At 32 years old, there is a good chance that his next NFL contract will be his last. Whether he wants to remain with the Bears is yet to be seen.

Jaquan Brisker, on the other hand, is hitting free agency for the first time in his NFL career. Wherever his next contract takes him, it will likely be a significant raise from what he made on his Bears rookie deal.

What is more, there has not been much talk of Chicago being willing to retain him anyway. Some of this has to do with the Bears’ salary cap situation.

But there will be plenty of teams interested in Brisker, including the Dallas Cowboys.

Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker predicted to sign with the Dallas Cowboys

In a recent article in which USA Today‘s Christian D’Andrea predicted where 32 of the NFL’s top free agents will end up, he linked Brisker to Dallas:

“Dallas has one of the worst cap situations in 2026, which may disqualify Jerry Jones from many of the spring’s top free agents. Fortunately, there’s a lot of space that can be freed up by restructuring and extending star players the Cowboys want to keep around.

“That could liberate them to bolster the secondary with Brisker, who can handle several roles in the defensive backfield and may come at a reasonable price after four good, rarely great seasons in Chicago.”

Spotrac has Brisker’s market value has three years and $33.3 million, which seems to be the kind of contract that the cap-strapped Cowboys could make work.

Christian Parker, the new defensive coordinator in Dallas, may even be able to help Brisker improve in his weakest coverage areas. Parker, after all, is a defensive back guru who has helped many young secondary players find success in the NFL.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears trade proposal sends Tremaine Edmunds to Tennessee Titans
• NFL reacts to Bears HC Ben Johnson’s off-season move
• Former Bears QB Justin Fields sees Packers rumors heat up

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

The post Chicago Bears: Jaquan Brisker predicted to depart for rebuilding NFC team in 2026 appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are widely viewed as one of the top potential destinations for Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, and Crosby himself may want to play for the defending NFC North champions.

But would the Bears be making a mistake in trading for the five-time Pro Bowler?

The Raiders are apparently seeking a Micah Parsons type of package in return for Crosby, meaning they would like a pair of first-round draft picks in a deal. Some have wondered whether or not Crosby — who racked up 73 tackles and 10 sacks in 15 games this past season — is worth a similar haul.

Additionally, some new concerns have emerged regarding Crosby thanks to a report from Michael Silver of The Athletic, and Chicago may want to take heed.

Apparently, Crosby doesn’t have much respect for quarterbacks in practice.

Should the Chicago Bears avoid a Maxx Crosby trade?

Silver revealed that Crosby has actually been very difficult to corral.

“As Crosby blossomed into one of the league’s best players, [Jon] Gruden’s full-time successors in Las Vegas — Josh McDaniels, Antonio Pierce and Pete Carroll — found themselves powerless to contain him,” Silver wrote.

Based on the rest of Silver’s revelation, Caleb Williams and the Bears might be a bit wary of bringing Crosby into the fold.

“Crosby, several witnesses say, would frequently violate one of football’s most sacred practice rules by making contact with red-jersey-clad quarterbacks — and get away with it,” Silver added.

And Crosby’s reasoning for breaking the rules? One witness exposed a pretty harsh quote from the star pass rusher.

 “His attitude was, ‘If you don’t want me to do it, then block me.’ And nobody was in position to challenge that,” the source said.

On one hand, you have to appreciate Crosby’s aggression and work ethic. But on the other side of the coin, you don’t want to have to worry about your quarterback getting injured in practice, and you also don’t want any of your players not adhering to the coaching staff.

Will this stop Chicago from pursuing a trade for Crosby? Certainly not, but head coach Ben Johnson should immediately be prepared to lay down the law if the Bears do ultimately acquire the former fourth-round pick.

The post Bears, Caleb Williams might be wary of Maxx Crosby trade after scathing report appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears certainly had one of the most exciting defenses in the NFL last year. After all, they led the league in turnovers forced and turnover differential. That being said, they made a living on being a bend but don’t break defense, which made their overall numbers rather unspectacular.

Indeed, the Bears ranked 29th in the NFL, giving up 361.8 total yards per game. They ranked 21st in the NFL allowing 227.4 passing yards per game, and 27th in the league allowing 134.5 rushing yards per game. Chicago’s scoring offense ranked 24th in league, as they allowed 24.4 points per game.

Clearly, if the Bears are going to take the next step to competing for a Super Bowl, they need to improve those numbers.

Chicago Bears linked to New Orleans Saints CB Alontae Taylor ahead of NFL free agency

Even though Chicago all of a sudden has more salary cap space that they thought they would following the retirement of Drew Dalman, they still need to be wise with how they spend their money.

To that end, one affordable free agent cornerback that they could target is Alontae Taylor from the New Orleans Saints. Tyler Dragon of USA Today recently listed Chicago as the best fit for Taylor, writing:

“Taylor has the versatility to play in the slot or outside corner. His seven career sacks rank first in Saints history for sacks by a cornerback. The Bears ranked 29th in total defense, the worst among all playoff teams in 2025.”

While Dragon’s argument makes sense, it should be noted that Taylor had a rough go of it over the last two years. Granted, he was playing on a woeful Saints defense.

That being said, over the last two seasons, Taylor has allowed 1,460 yards and 13 touchdowns when targeted. In 2024, opposing quarterbacks had a passer rating of 111.0 when targeting him. He improved in this facet in 2025, but still gave up a 98.2 passer rating when targeted.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears predicted to land 4x Pro Bowl pass rusher in free agency
• Raiders’ Maxx Crosby wants to join Bears (report)
• Bears insider exposes deeper problems than fans think

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

The post NFL Rumors: Chicago Bears linked to former Saints CB to improve overall defense appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Last off-season, the Chicago Bears signed free agent center Drew Dalman to help fix their woeful offensive line. He certainly played a huge role in the unit’s turnaround, making the Pro Bowl in his first season with the Bears. It also turns out that his first year in Chicago is also his last. Despite having two more seasons left on his contract, the 27-year-old surprisingly retired from the NFL yesterday.

Obviously, this decision leaves the Bears with a glaring hole to fill. The can, of course, look in the NFL Draft for a center because this year’s crop of interior offensive linemen is pretty deep.

However, Chicago may want a veteran center for the time being as they continue their quest to take their next step to Super Bowl contention. If this is the case, there are several affordable options on the impending free agent market.

1. Tyler Biadasz

Chicago did not waste any time looking for a replacement at center. Not long after Dalman’s retirement was reported, it was also announced that they were hosting Tyler Biadasz on a visit:

The #Bears are hosting free agent center Tyler Biadasz on a visit, source said. The former #Commanders starter was recently released and now is available before the frenzy begins. pic.twitter.com/83dx8sec4X

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 3, 2026

Biadasz, who went to college at Wisconsin, was recently released by the Washington Commanders. He spent the first four seasons of his career with the Dallas Cowboys and made a Pro Bowl in 2022.

As a bonus: it is pretty well-known that Chicago’s rival, the Green Bay Packers, are interested in Biadasz. Ryan Poles could swipe one of their few free agent targets right out from under them.

2. Sean Rhyan

Speaking of the Packers, they are not expected to bring back impending free agent interior lineman Sean Rhyan. A former third round pick, Rhyan has experience mostly as a guard in the NFL.

However, when Green Bay’s starting center, Elgton Jenkins, went down with a broken leg midway through last season, Rhyan was the one the Packers chose to fill that role.

He performed admirably, though far from perfectly. If Chicago were to go this route, they could sign him to a short-term contract and allowing him to play while they draft and develop their center of the future.

Worst case scenario: they sign him and he ends up being an above-average guard for the Bears.

3. Cade Mays

Cade Mays started his career with the Carolina Panthers as an offensive guard. Over the last two years, though, he has been their starting center.

The concern here, though, is that he has not played a full 17 games in a season once in his four-year career. That being said, that is part of what makes him so affordable in free agency.

PFF gave Mays a 69.4 pass blocking grade in 2025, which ranked 13th among centers. However, he also had a 58.4 run blocking grade, which ranked 33rd among centers.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears predicted to land 4x Pro Bowl pass rusher in free agency
• Raiders’ Maxx Crosby wants to join Bears (report)
• Bears insider exposes deeper problems than fans think

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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For weeks, the Chicago Bears have been named as a team to watch regarding Maxx Crosby. The Las Vegas Raiders superstar has been the subject of trade rumors for quite some time. Since the Bears have a need at edge rusher, they are, indeed, a logical fit.

That being said, the Raiders reportedly want the same kind of package the Green Bay Packers gave up for Micah Parsons. That is, two first round picks and a high-impact player.

It is yet to be seen, of course, if Chicago will be willing to give up that kind of package in order to get Crosby. However, one NFL analyst suggests they may not need to.

Chicago Bears predicted to sign Trey Hendrickson in NFL free agency

In a recent article in which he predicted the biggest free agent signing for every NFL team this off-season, Christian D’Andrea of USA Today forecasts the Bears landing four-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Trey Hendrickson:

“The Bears could make a move to land Maxx Crosby via trade. Or they could opt for the older Hendrickson without having to cough up significant draft considerations to recharge their pass rush. Hendrickson missed the bulk of 2025 with injury and had a career-low 14 percent pressure rate after averaging better than 19 percent in his four years as a Bengal that preceded it.

“But even a 14 percent pressure rate would be signfiicantly better than what Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo put up last fall.”

Prior to missing most of 2025, Hendrickson had back-to-back seasons in which he totaled 17.5 sacks each year.

The problem, though, is that Chicago does not have any salary cap space currently, and even when they become cap compliant, Hendrickson is sure to receive a massive contract in free agency.

The Bears may not be able to afford him. That being said, having him on the line would do wonders to improve the pass rush.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears trade proposal sends Tremaine Edmunds to Tennessee Titans
• NFL reacts to Bears HC Ben Johnson’s off-season move
• Former Bears QB Justin Fields sees Packers rumors heat up

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

The post NFL Rumors: Chicago Bears predicted to land 4x Pro Bowl  Cincinnati Bengals pass rusher in free agency appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Things seem to be looking pretty for the Chicago Bears right now, as they just won the NFC North division title and captured a playoff victory.

Caleb Williams appears to have a very bright future in front of him, and Ben Johnson is one of the top head coaches in all of football. But are things not quite as rosy for the Bears as most fans might believe?

Chicago has been tabbed as the favorite to land Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, which is certainly exciting. But there are reasons to be concerned about whether or not acquiring Crosby would actually be in the team’s best long-term interest.

The Bears don’t have the friendliest salary cap situation, and they would probably have to surrender a pair of first-round draft picks to pry Crosby away from the Raiders.

Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic feels such a deal could be dangerous for Chicago.

The Chicago Bears have more problems than you may believe

While there are plenty of reasons to feel optimistic about the Bears’ chances in 2026 (especially if they bag Crosby), Fishbain has thrown up some caution flags regarding the team’s roster construction.

“Those are not the most reliable players at this juncture, which is why edge rusher is high on any Bears wish list for the offseason, not to mention a force from the interior … oh, and a weakside linebacker, two safeties, maybe help at corner, a left tackle … you see where I’m going?” Fishbain wrote.

Throw center into the mix too now that Drew Dalman announced his sudden retirement.

Chicago is currently $7.5 million over the salary cap, and Crosby carries a $35.8 million cap hit for 2026. He is under contract through 2029 thanks to the three-year, $106.5 million extension he signed with Las Vegas last March, so if the Bears land the five-time Pro Bowler, they’ll be in it for the long haul, for better or for worse.

“But they will really need him to be a long-term star, while finding a way to still be above average across the board, to make sure that this isn’t just a home run for 2026,” Fishbain added.

Assuming Crosby is healthy (he underwent knee surgery over the winter), there is no question that the 28-year-old will make Chicago better next season. But given all of the other holes plaguing the roster, swinging a deal for the superstar pass rusher is definitely risky.

The post Chicago Bears insider exposes deeper problems than fans may think appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears have been tabbed as one of the top potential trade destinations for Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, and a report surfaced on Monday that a deal could happen as soon as this week.

The Bears are in dire need of pass-rushing help, so Crosby seems like a natural fit. After all, the 28-year-old is a five-time Pro Bowler with four double-digit sack campaigns under his belt, including 10 sacks to go along with 73 tackles and 20 quarterback hits in 15 games this past season.

But the price to acquire Crosby would be exorbitant, and Lou Scataglia of Bear Goggles On feels that Chicago might be making a mistake if it swung a trade for the superstar.

“Firstly, the asking price could be two first-round picks. In today’s NFL, the way to sustain success is to draft and develop,” Scataglia wrote. “Some of the best teams in the NFL today are built through the NFL Draft, so parting with, potentially, two first-round picks would strip the front office’s ability to find blue-chip talent.”

The Dallas Cowboys received two first-round picks in exchange for Micah Parsons just before the start of last season, so Crosby would probably fetch a similar price.

That’s not the only reason why Scataglia thinks landing Crosby would be a mistake, either.

Would the Chicago Bears be making a mistake trading for Maxx Crosby?

For Scataglia, the con of trading for Crosby would be two-fold. It’s not just the cost in terms of draft capital; it’s also what it would do to the Bears’ finances.

“Secondly, Chicago’s cap situation isn’t that great, as they are currently over the cap by about $6.5 million,” Scataglia added. “Unfortunately, the Bears simply aren’t flush with cap space like a team should be with a quarterback on his rookie deal.”

Crosby signed a three-year, $106.5 million extension with the Raiders last March, a deal that will take him through 2029. He carries a $35.8 million cap hit for 2026. The hit dips to $29.8 million in 2027, and there is an out in his contract after that season.

Clearly, Crosby would be expensive in every single aspect, which shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone. And let’s be honest: the Bears have now ascended to contender status, so in order to take that next step, they might have to pay a handsome price.

We’ll see if Chicago ultimately swings a deal for Crosby in the coming days or weeks.

The post Chicago Bears hit with shocking Maxx Crosby warning amid trade buzz appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are expected to be busy this offseason after winning the NFC North and advancing to the Divisional Round of the playoffs this past year.

The Bears definitely need some help on the defensive side of the ball, where they ranked 29th in the NFL in 2025. They especially need help with their pass rush, which is why they have been linked to a trade for Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby since before the season even ended.

Crosby obviously won’t come cheap. He is a five-time Pro Bowler and is under contract through 2029 thanks to a three-year, $106.5 million extension he signed with the Raiders. But with Las Vegas once again in rebuilding mode, he might be available in the right deal.

Anthony Miller of Bear Goggles On envisions a scenario in which Chicago would land Crosby, and it involves a massive NFL Draft move.

Chicago Bears predicted to land Maxx Crosby in huge NFL Draft trade

Miller has proposed a trade in which the Bears would send the 25th overall pick and their 2027 first-round selection to Las Vegas in exchange for Crosby.

“The Bears have been linked to Crosby for most of the offseason and could make a play to get him, despite the Raiders being reluctant to move him,” Miller wrote. “After having just 35 sacks last year, Crosby is more than worth the two first-round picks for him as he has been a five-time Pro Bowler and has racked up 69.5 sacks in seven seasons.”

A package that includes two first-round draft choices could be enough to make the Raiders budge, especially considering that was what the Dallas Cowboys received from the Green Bay Packers in exchange for Micah Parsons just before the 2025 campaign.

Crosby racked up 73 tackles, 10 sacks, an interception, a couple of forced fumbles and six passes defended in 2025. It should be noted that the 28-year-old missed the final two games of the season due to a knee injury and underwent surgery because of it, but he is expected to be ready for training camp.

The Bears are in dire need of a dominant defender along their front seven, and Crosby would be just what the doctor ordered.

The post Bears connected to gargantuan trade that would shake up the NFL Draft appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears definitely need some help along the interior of their defensive line. Grady Jarrett was a massive disappointment during his debut campaign in Chicago, and Gervon Dexter could be on the move via trade.

The Bears’ defense as a whole was problematic this past season, finishing 29th in the NFL. With Chicago knocking on the door in the NFC thanks much in part to an explosive offense, it’s time general manager Ryan Poles did what was necessary to fix things on the other side of the ball.

Unfortunately, the Bears have a complicated financial situation, so they probably won’t be able to spend a ton of money in free agency. That means they will likely have to rely on the NFL Draft to fill their most prominent holes.

On that note, Anthony Miller of Bear Goggles On has identified a potential solution for Chicago up the middle: Florida Gators star Caleb Banks.

Chicago Bears predicted to draft Caleb Banks

In a three-round mock draft, Miller predicted the Bears to select Banks with the 25th overall pick, even after the mammoth 6-foot-6, 330-pound defender cut his Scouting Combine workout short due to uncomfortable cleats.

“Banks demonstrated his athletic abilities at Florida, but a foot injury cost him all but three games last season. He tested well at the NFL Combine as he had the second-longest broad jump with 9’6″,” Miller wrote. “Chicago needs help at defensive tackle with Grady Jarrett underperforming horribly in 2025, and Dexter might now be traded. Banks easily comes in as a Day 1 starter that [Dennis] Allen can develop into a great starter for the next few years.”

Banks is definitely an intriguing player and is probably one of the most classic examples of a boom-or-bust prospect.

The 22-year-old spent his first two collegiate campaigns at Louisville before transferring to Florida in 2023. His sample size of production is rather small, with the vast majority of it coming in 2024 when he registered 21 tackles, seven tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks.

The fact that Banks underwent foot surgery this past season is certainly concerning, especially for a man of his size.

That being said, there is no doubt that Banks’ potential is tantalizing, and the Bears could potentially land a star if they take him in the first round this April.

The post Chicago Bears linked to mammoth 6-foot-6 defender amid trade talks appeared first on ChiCitySports.

With the cap space situation the Chicago Bears are currently in, there are likely going to be some surprising cuts and trades this offseason.

More news: Chicago Bears’ Ben Johnson continues beef with Green Bay Packers in a hilarious moment

A highly speculated trade candidate has been fan favorite tight end Cole Kmet. Due to the emergence of Colston Loveland, Kmet has been a name to watch as a trade candidate.

However, Bears insider Brad Biggs is reporting that the idea of Kmet being traded is very unlikely.

Cole Kmet likely to stay with the Chicago Bears in 2026

More news: Chicago Bears free agent doubtful to resign following Ryan Poles’ comments

The Bears insider told 104.3 The Score that it’s more likely that the Bears will “rework and extend his contract than trade him in the offseason”.

The Bears really value Cole Kmet, @BradBiggs says.

"They're not evaluating him through the lens of fantasy football statistics," he says.

Biggs finds it more likely that the Bears will rework and extend his contract than trade him this offseason. pic.twitter.com/xiUyNLw5lI

— 104.3 The Score (@thescorechicago) February 25, 2026

Biggs noted that the Bears value Kmet “very highly”. He also mentioned the value Kmet has in both the run game and passing game from a blocking standpoint is a significant reason he’s likely to stay.

With how Ben Johnson loves to run a lot of 12 personnel in games, the idea of keeping Kmet makes too much sense.

The Bears have a clear tight end duo in both Kmet and Loveland that can last many years in the league.

The post Chicago Bears potential trade candidate expected to stay on team: Report appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are certainly open for business this offseason. Not only are they shopping some of their own players, but they are also on the hunt for some significant additions.

More particularly, the Bears are looking to add an edge rusher, which is why they have been repeatedly linked to trades for both Maxx Crosby and Kayvon Thibodeaux. Considering Chicago totaled just 35 sacks in 2025, it makes complete sense.

However, the Bears have now received some really tough news on the trade market.

The New York Jets just traded edge rusher Jermaine Johnson to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat, setting the tone for the edge rusher market heading onto March. The Titans paid a hefty price for Johnson, surrendering one of the NFL’s best nose tackles.

That means Chicago will have to pay up if it wants to acquire a star pass rusher of its own.

Will the Chicago Bears still try to trade for an edge rusher?

Johnson is not an elite defender by any stretch. He’s a good player for sure, but he isn’t Crosby. He’s probably more similar to Thibodeaux. But now, Tennessee just established a pretty significant price for other edges by landing him.

Are the Bears willing to pay a significant cost to acquire a pass rusher via trade? Or will they just fall back on the NFL Draft?

The good news is that this year’s draft class is loaded with talent at the edge rusher position, so Chicago can just select one of the many talented players on the board this April. That probably is the most likely route at this point.

Neither the Las Vegas Raiders nor the New York Giants are going to just give Crosby or Thibodeaux — respectively — away. Especially not after seeing what the Jets just secured for Johnson.

The Bears won the NFC North and captured a playoff victory this past season. They aren’t far away from contending for a Super Bowl, and finding another player who can get to the quarterback alongside of Montez Sweat is one of the final pieces they need.

But Chicago may not want to go for broke in a trade.

The post Chicago Bears just received brutal news on the trade market appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are facing the unfortunate likelihood of having to replace their entire safety room in 2026. Kevin Byard, who was a First Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection, is set to be a free agent. So too is Jaquan Brisker, who has played out his rookie contract in Chicago. While Byard is a long-time veteran, Brisker is going to be looking for a bigger payday as he looks for his second NFL deal.

Undoubtedly, the safety position will be one that the Bears focus on in the 2026 NFL Draft. They will, in all likelihood, take more than one. However, they also will need to venture forth into free agency to add a veteran at the position as well.

Bleacher Report identified two-time Super Bowl Champion Bryan Cook as someone who would be a perfect fit.

Bryan Cook named the perfect free agent target for the Chicago Bears

In a recent article in which they list the perfect free agent target for each NFL team, Bleacher Report named Cook, who won two Super Bowls with the Kansas City Chiefs, as Chicago’s ideal signee:

“The Bears are going to be connected to a lot of edge-rushers during free agency. It makes sense, but they at least have Montez Sweat to build around. They essentially have no safeties on the roster for 2026.

“Bryan Cook has the ability to play deep or be a playmaker in the box. At 26 years old, he’s just hitting his peak. He’s a sure tackler who missed just 4.5 percent of his tackle attempts last season.”

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears potential trade partner for Tyson Bagent revealed
• Bears OT Braxton Jones gets high praise on NFL 101 best free agent list
• Bears expected to test Cole Kmet’s loyalty soon

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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It’s no surprise that rumors are flying that the Chicago Bears could trade backup quarterback Tyson Bagent.

Bagent proved within the last two years, that he’s one of the very best backup quarterbacks in the NFL. During Tuesday’s media session, general manager Ryan Poles confirmed that the team has received calls from other teams regarding Bagent’s availability.

The biggest question now is, what team will want to trade for Bagent?

The Atlanta Falcons has been listed as a potential trade partner for the Chicago Bears

More news: NFL News: Chicago Bears’ Ben Johnson continues beef with Green Bay Packers in a hilarious moment

According to NFL reporter Evan Sidery, the Atlanta Falcons could potentially be a trade partner for the Bears’ backup QB.

The Falcons are viewed as a potential trade destination for Tyson Bagent.

The Bears appear open to moving Bagent, who could fetch Day 2 draft pick value as one of the NFL’s best backups thus far.

New Atlanta GM Ian Cunningham worked under Ryan Poles in Chicago. pic.twitter.com/4g5axN0m0g

— Evan Sidery (@esidery) February 24, 2026

The idea of Atlanta trading for Bagent does make sense, due to the team confirming they will be releasing veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins.

And with questions over starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. still looming, they might want to take a swing on a proven backup that deserves a chance.

With former Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham running the show in Atlanta, it’s very possible he could be interesting in bringing Bagent in.

The post Chicago Bears potential trade partner for Tyson Bagent revealed appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears should definitely look to revamp their defense this offseason after finishing 29th in the NFL in that category during the 2025 campaign.

While the Bears have some good pieces on paper, it hasn’t really meshed, and while injuries have played a role, it also may be time for Chicago to admit that it needs to make some changes.

On Wednesday, the Bears gave linebacker Tremaine Edmunds permission to seek a trade, which comes in the midst of rumors that Chicago could cut the two-time Pro Bowl linebacker in order to save around $15 million.

Whether or not Ryan Poles will actually be able to extract anything of actual value out of Edmunds remains to be seen. He carries a $17.4 million cap hit for 2026, so teams may prefer to just wait and see if the get released rather than a surrender a draft pick and take that financial hit.

Nevertheless, some clubs might express interest in Edmunds, and Mike Luciano of Bear Goggles On has named the Seattle Seahawks as a potential trade partner.

Could the Chicago Bears trade Tremaine Edmunds to the Seattle Seahawks?

The Seahawks just captured a Super Bowl title largely on the strength of their defense, so Edmunds would certainly represent a pretty good fit in Seattle. There is also a previous connection for Edmunds in the Pacific Northwest.

“The defending champions not only could use one more inside linebacker, but their assistant head coach is Leslie Frazier, who served as Edmunds’ defensive coordinator with the Buffalo Bills,” Luciano wrote. “Frazier knows as well as anyone how to get the most out of a player like Edmunds.”

While Edmunds has enjoyed a very solid three-year run in Chicago, he actually made both of his Pro Bowls in Buffalo. So reuniting with Frazier would almost surely be something in which Edmunds would be interested.

The 27-year-old racked up 112 tackles, a sack, four interceptions and nine passes defended in 13 games this past season. While his numbers look good, he struggled in pass coverage, posting a 52.1 grade in that category at Pro Football Focus.

That being said, Edmunds is still terrific against the run and remains an asset to a contending team like the Seahawks.

The post Chicago Bears connected to Pro Bowl trade with Super Bowl champions appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears definitely need to improve their pass rush this offseason, as they totaled just 35 sacks this past year. The good news for the Bears is that the edge rusher class this offseason is loaded with talent, and at every avenue.

Chicago can exploit a loaded free-agent market for a pass rusher. It can trade for one. It can select one in a deep NFL draft class.

Let’s focus on a potential trade for a second: what about New York Giants star Kayvon Thibodeaux?

ESPN has listed Thibodeaux among its top 15 trade candidates heading into the spring, tabbing him at a 70 percent chance to get dealt. What’s more, it listed the Bears as one of the top three possible landing spots for the 25-year-old.

But would it be worth the risk for Chicago?

Should the Chicago Bears trade for Kayvon Thibodeaux?

Thibodeaux registered just 25 tackles, 2.5 sacks and nine quarterback hits in 10 games this past season, so there is reason for trepidation when it comes to acquiring him.

“Thibodeaux’s motor can run hot and cold, which makes him a difficult player to trust on a down-to-down basis,” wrote ESPN’s Ben Solak. “But a contract year could light a fire under Thibodeaux, who generates quick pressures with hand usage and a killer first step.”

Not only is Thibodeaux a bit inconsistent, but he also has a fairly checkered injury history.

The former first-round pick missed 12 games between 2024 and 2025. A hand injury sidelined him for five contests in the former campaign, and this past season, Thibodeaux missed the final seven games as a result of a shoulder issue.

On the flip side, Thibodeaux racked up 50 tackles, 11.5 sacks and three forced fumbles during his last healthy campaign in 2023, displaying just how good he can actually be.

The Bears currently have Montez Sweat and no other reliable players in their edge-rusher rotation. Austin Booker showed significant potential in 2025, but he has yet to prove he can produce over the course of a full season. Meanwhile, Dayo Odeyingbo is recovering from a torn Achilles.

Chicago might have to part with a third-round pick in order to pry Thibodeaux away from the Giants, which is scary considering the University of Oregon product has just one year left on his contract. But the potential reward of adding Thibodeaux may outweigh the risks.

The post Bears named top trade spot for star pass rusher with glaring red flags appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears definitely need to address their defense this offseason after ranking just 29th in the NFL in yards allowed this past year, and in a free-agent class teeming with talented veterans on the defensive side of the ball, the Bears should be able to find some answers.

Chicago is currently $4.1 million over the salary cap, but it could open up a decent chunk of money with roster cuts and contract restructures.

One of the Bears’ potential cap casualties could be linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, as the team would stand to save $15 million by releasing him. But if Chicago does plan on cutting the two-time Pro Bowler, it will obviously need to find a replacement.

On that note, Greg Auman of Fox Sports has identified a potential off-ball linebacker for the Bears to add, naming Demario Davis as a candidate.

Chicago Bears linked to Demario Davis

Davis has spent the last eight seasons with the New Orleans Saints, establishing himself as one of the best linebackers in the business. However, he has not exactly been doing a whole lot of winning in recent years, or really throughout his career in general.

“Davis deserves to finish with a contender — 227 career regular-season games, but only five in the playoffs, and two wins at that,” Auman wrote. “He’s had six straight seasons with at least 1,000 defensive snaps, a model of durability at a demanding position.”

The Bears just won the NFC North and won a playoff game, so perhaps they could represent an intriguing destination for the 37-year-old.

Davis proved in 2025 that he still has plenty left in the tank, having racked up 143 tackles while playing in all 17 games. He made back-to-back Pro Bowl appearances in 2022 and 2023 and also earned five consecutive All-Pro selections between 2019 and 2023.

The former third-round pick has finished with well over 100 tackles in nine straight campaigns, and for much of his career, he has also been a terrific pass rusher.

Davis would not only bolster Chicago’s defense on the field, but he would provide the team with an outstanding veteran presence in the locker room.

Should the Bears cut Edmunds, Davis would represent a fantastic replacement.

The post Bears predicted to land perennial All-Pro for massive Super Bowl boost appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Last offseason, the Chicago Bears signed defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, hoping that the wily veteran would bolster their interior. Instead, Jarrett proved to be a massive disappointment.

After inking a three-year, $43.5 million contract with the Bears, Jarrett managed just 39 tackles, one tackle for loss, 1.5 sacks and eight quarterback hits in 14 games this past season, finishing with a paltry 44.5 run defense grade at Pro Football Focus.

Perhaps the 32-year-old is simply past his prime at this stage, as he provided very little help next to Gervon Dexter up front.

In fact, neither Chicago defensive tackle was any good against the run in 2025, a big reason why the Bears ranked just 27th in run defense.

General manager Ryan Poles will surely be searching for a legitimate run stuffer this offseason, and Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport has identified whom he feels would be a “dream target” for Chicago this spring: Georgia Bulldogs star Christen Miller.

Chicago Bears linked to Christen Miller in NFL Draft

Miller is projected to be a second-round pick in the NFL Draft this April, and Davenport thinks the 6-foot-4, 305-pound defender would be the perfect fit in the Windy City.

“Miller’s numbers weren’t great in college, and at 6’4″ and 310 pounds, he’s a bit undersized to play nose tackle. But he has an intriguing blend of speed and athleticism and has played all over the defensive front,” Davenport wrote. “After a disappointing 2025 from tackle Grady Jarrett, Miller would be a welcome addition—especially after the Jarrett signing produced less-than-ideal results last year.”

Miller spent four seasons at Georgia and is coming off of a 2025 campaign in which he logged 23 tackles, four tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. The numbers don’t jump off the page, but he has been widely regarded for his ability to stuff the run.

In fact, Miller earned an 88.1 run defense grade at Pro Football Focus this past year, so while he may not be as massive as someone like former Bears All-Pro Ted Washington, he certainly has proven he can be a force in the trenches.

Chicago owns the 57th overall pick in the second round of the draft. If Miller is still on the board at that spot, the Bears may want to pull the trigger.

The post Chicago Bears connected to ‘dream target’ to replace $44 million bust appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears could definitely stand to upgrade their defense this offseason, as the Bears ranked just 29th in yards allowed and 23rd in points allowed this past year.

It didn’t stop Chicago from winning the NFC North and making a playoff run, but it’s absolutely something the Bears need to improve in the coming months, especially in such a tough division.

Unfortunately, Chicago does not exactly have the best financial situation, as the Bears are currently $4.1 million over the salary cap, and while they can make some moves to clear some money, it’s not like they are ever going to be loaded with cap space this spring.

That’s what makes the recent news that defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson could be on the move that much more disappointing.

During a recent appearance on a live stream with Raud, Gardner-Johnson was asked if he would consider returning to the Philadelphia Eagles, and he wasted no time stating that he is more than open to a reunion.

The Chicago Bears could lose C.J. Gardner-Johnson

Gardner-Johnson was a revelation for the Bears in 2025. He joined the team in late October after being released by the Baltimore Ravens (he was also cut by the Houston Texans earlier in the year), and in 10 games with Chicago, he registered 51 tackles, three sacks, a couple of interceptions and four passes defended.

The 28-year-old is being projected to land a one-year, $2.3 million contract in free agency (via Spotrac), which is infinitely affordable. But for a Bears team that much watch every dime it spends, it could prove problematic. Plus, there is a great chance Gardner-Johnson lands more than that on the open market.

While Gardner-Johnson’s attitude has been a problem at previous stops, he has proven to be a productive player, having played a pivotal role on the Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning squad in 2024 when he racked up 59 tackles, six interceptions (including a pick-six) and 12 passes defended.

Considering he is still relatively young, it stands to reason that Gardner-Johnson could net a multi-year deal next month, which is where things could get sticky for a Bears team that would surely like him back.

Remember: Chicago is also probably losing Jaquan Brisker, and All-Pro safety Kevin Byard is hitting free agency, as well.

The post Chicago Bears could lose critical defender over a measly $2.3 million appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears may be forced to cut linebacker Tremaine Edmunds this offseason, as the Bears have a disastrous salary cap situation and releasing Edmunds would save them a hefty $15 million.

Edmunds’ numbers in 2025 looked great, as he racked up 112 tackles, a sack, four interceptions and nine passes defended in 13 games. But a deeper look under the hood reveals that the 27-year-old may not have been as effective as his surface statistics indicate.

Edmunds posted a paltry 52.1 coverage grade at Pro Football Focus this past season, and in a pass-heavy NFL, that is very problematic for a linebacker. We know Edmunds is great against the run, but he carries a $17.5 million cap hit for 2026, the final year of a four-year, $72 million contract. That’s a significant blow for a player who appears to be declining.

Of course, if Chicago did part ways with Edmunds, it would have to replace him, and while the Bears could look to the NFL Draft, Joshua Queipo of Bear Goggles On has identified a more experienced option: Devin Bush.

Could the Chicago Bears sign Devin Bush?

Bush is headed toward free agency following a breakout campaign with the Cleveland Browns, and Queipo feels that he could be the best possible option.

“Devin Bush would cost more than [Alex] Anzalone, but still provide cash and cap savings for the Bears over keeping Edmunds,” Queipo wrote. “Bush was arguably the best linebacker in the NFL last year and offers the Bears’ defense fantastic upside.”

Bush racked up 125 tackles, a couple of sacks, three interceptions (including two pick-sixes), a pair of forced fumbles and eight passes defended this past season. What’s more, he managed an 80.4 coverage grade, ranking fourth out of 88 qualifying linebackers. On top of that, he registered an 87.6 overall grade.

The 27-year-old was originally selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers with the 10th overall pick of the 2019 NFL Draft and spent his first four seasons with the Steelers, enjoying an impressive rookie campaign but fading afterward. Bush then took a one-year detour with the Seattle Seahawks before joining the Browns in 2024.

Defense was a major issue for the Bears in 2025, so bringing a fresh, elite face like Bush aboard would definitely go a long way.

The post Chicago Bears linked to breakout star to replace Tremaine Edmunds appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are going to have to make some changes to their roster before the new league year begins in March. They are currently well over the 2026 NFL salary cap, and are going to either restructure or outright release several players. Additionally, these moves are going to have to be made so that they can be active in free agency and sign their 2026 NFL Draft class.

Undoubtedly, there will be some cuts made that are expected. Indeed, players will be released due to depth at their respective positions or because of poor performance. One of these could very well be tight end Cole Kmet.

NFL analyst calls the Chicago Bears potential release of Cole Kmet “shocking”

In a recent article published by Bleacher Report, NFL analyst Brad Gagnon listed eight potential roster cuts that he thinks would be shocking, but are likely to happen. One of them was Chicago parting ways with Kmet:

“Rookie sensation Colston Loveland emerged as maybe the most reliable and efficient pass-catcher on the Bears roster in 2025, while Kmet caught just 30 passes for 347 yards and scored only twice. He just isn’t a high-impact member of Ben Johnson’s offense.

“Chicago can pocket $8.4 million in cap space by moving on from the 26-year-old. That could come in handy for a team in the red in terms of the salary cap at this stage.

“They’ll likely keep him around because they run so many two-tight end sets, but a restructuring should be a necessity. They could also consider using a Day 2-type pick on a guy who could compete for that second tight end role.”

For all the reasons that Gagnon listed, though, the release of Kmet would not, in fact, be shocking. With Colston Loveland emerging as one of the best young tight ends in the NFL, the Bears simply cannot justify keeping Kmet at his current price. The fact of the matter is that he has been relegated to TE2 in the Bears’ offense, a role that they can fill with a much cheaper player.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

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• Praise pours in for Bears TE Colston Loveland after move outside NFL
• Bears linked to blockbuster trade for All-Pro to bolster defense

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

The post Chicago Bears: NFL analyst names on “shocking” cut team will make ahead of 2026 season appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears definitely have some work to do heading into the offseason when it comes to their financial situation, as they are currently $4.1 million over the salary cap with free agency looming in about three weeks.

Of course, there are ways to clear cap space. Restructuring contracts is one method, but another avenue involves cutting or trading players.

For the Bears, one of their most obvious trade candidates is tight end Cole Kmet, who began falling out of favor once Caleb Williams took the reins at quarterback in 2024. His role was then reduced even further this past season following Chicago’s decision to draft Colston Loveland.

Yes, two tight-end sets definitely work, but the Bears may wish to dump Loveland now in order to save $8.5 million (as long as they trade him before March 15).

Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox has pitched an idea for Chicago in that regard, linking the Bears to a trade with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Chicago Bears could trade Cole Kmet this offseason

More specifically, Knox has proposed that the Bears should trade Kmet to the Buccaneers in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick.

“Chicago faces a projected cap deficit of $10.7 million and could save $8.4 million in cap space by trading Kmet before March 15,” Knox wrote. “While Kmet’s role might not justify his price point to the Bears, the 26-year-old should interest plenty of other tight-end-needy teams.”

Moving Kmet for a Day 3 pick may seem like a rather skimpy price, but he caught just 30 passes for 347 yards and a couple of touchdowns in 2025 and still has two years remaining on the four-year, $50 million extension he signed with Chicago in July 2023.

Kmet was originally selected by the Bears in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft and began establishing himself as a critical weapon as soon as his second season, snaring 60 balls for 612 yards. His best season came in 2023, when he hauled in 73 receptions for 719 yards and six scores.

The Notre Dame alum’s production has plummeted since then, and with Loveland now clearly the No. 1 tight end in the Windy City, a split might be best for all parties involved.

The post Chicago Bears linked to $50 million trade with NFC contender appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears‘ secondary is bound to look significantly different come September than it did walking off the field against the Los Angeles Rams, back in January.

Given that Jaquan Brisker, Kevin Byard, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson are all slated to become unrestricted free agents next month, and that the Bears are currently upwards of $5 million over the cap, general manager Ryan Poles may need to go bargain shopping at the position, or at least look to the free agent market to replace the veterans on the roster.

Are Chicago Bears an ideal Jabrill Peppers fit?

If the Bears are unable to bring Brisker, or Byard, or Gardner-Johnson back, Jabrill Peppers could be a fascinating option.

According to Pro Football Focus analyst Mason Cameron, given that the Bears are likely going to be unable to go shopping at the very top of the safety market this offseason, Peppers could be a best fit, especially on a short-term deal.

“Although Peppers didn’t catch on in Pittsburgh,” Cameron writes for PFF. “Playing just 100 snaps, he isn’t far removed from a strong track record in New England from 2022 to 2024. Over that span, he proved to be a versatile chess piece deep, in the slot and in the box, producing a 75.0-plus PFF overall grade in each of those seasons.

“The Bears can get Peppers on a short-term, prove-it deal in hopes of recapturing that production to address one of their many vacant spots in the secondary, all without breaking the bank.”

Signing a veteran like Peppers would allow Poles, and defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, to bridge the gap in a transitioning secondary without mortgaging the team’s future.

If Peppers can return to his ‘versatile chess piece’ form, he could be the bargain-bin steal that keeps the Bears’ defense competitive while the front office navigates its current cap constraints.

The post Chicago Bears linked to 7 interception free agent safety to replace Jaquan Brisker appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears gave up the fourth-most yards per game in the NFL in 2025 (361.8), but still had one of the better overall defenses in the league. This was, of course, the defense generated the most turnovers in the NFL, which included 23 interceptions. Their +22 turnover differential also was the best in the league.

Obviously, their ability to force turnovers came as the result of stellar secondary play. Their safety duo, in particular, of Jaquan Brisker and Kevin Byard III, were exceptional. The problem they face now, though, is that both of them are impending free agents.

With their salary cap situation the way it is, the Bears are likely not going to be able to keep all of their defensive back free agents. A solution, though, could be trading for All-Pro Minkah Fitzpatrick.

The Chicago Bears could trade for All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick

The Miami Dolphins have a new general manager in Jon Eric-Sullivan and head coach in Jeff Hafley (both formerly of the Green Bay Packers). Over the last few days, Miami has made a series of high-profile roster cuts, including former All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill.

Additionally, the Dolphins have placed five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Bleacher Report believes that Bears could make a run at acquiring him:

“After capturing the NFC North in 2025, the window is officially open in the Windy City. The team trotted out an excellent safety duo a year ago in Jaquan Brisker and veteran Kevin Byard III. C.J. Gardner-Johnson played well for the team after joining the Bears in-season. There’s just one small problem.

“All three are about to hit free agency.

“The Bears are up against the cap—the team is upside-down to the tune of $5 million and change. They will no doubt free up some room with some releases and restructures, but keeping the band together at safety is going to be difficult—especially where Brisker is concerned.

“Provided the team can make the money work, adding Fitzpatrick would at the very least keep the team on track at the position. And if the Bears want to improve on last year’s success, the team can’t afford a defensive backslide.”

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Gov. JB Pritzker responds to Bears statement about Indiana stadium
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For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

The post Chicago Bears encouraged to trade for 3x All-Pro safety to replace Jaquan Brisker appeared first on ChiCitySports.

NFL offseason speculation is heating up, and veteran offensive tackle Cam Robinson is predicted to join the Chicago Bears.

Robinson has played nine seasons in the NFL since being drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2017. With the Jaguars, he became a dependable starter and earned a long-term contract extension. The team only traded him to the Minnesota Vikings in 2024.

In March 2025, the 30-year-old offensive tackle signed a one‑year, $12 million deal with the Houston Texans. Most of that money is guaranteed. However, in September 2025, the Texans traded him to the Cleveland Browns, who assumed the remainder of his contract.

Overall, Robinson appeared in 117 regular-season games, including 13 with the Browns, but 2025 was his most challenging season. He missed multiple games because of a knee issue. Analysts from Pro Football Focus (PFF) also rated his overall performance below average, ranking him 48th out of 89 qualifying offensive tackles. He also committed 14 penalties and allowed eight sacks.

These issues have raised concerns about his consistency and reliability. However, Fox News said his 114 career starts and three fumble recoveries still make him “a known commodity,” which is valuable at tackle.” 

Cam Robinson predicted to sign with Chicago Bears

Robinson’s contract with the Browns ended following the 2025 season. Fox News now predicts he will sign with the Bears. The media outlet said he may accept less than his previous contract for long-term stability.

“Robinson, 30, has played for four teams in the last two seasons, and was twice traded before finishing 2025 in Cleveland. He’s gone from franchise tags to a $12 million contract last year, and he’ll likely take less than that as he searches for some stability,” the report noted.

Fox Sports concluded its forecast by asking, “Could the Bears, with injury concerns for at least the start of 2026, be a good match?”

The Bears enter the 2026 offseason facing a major injury crisis along the offensive line, complicating roster planning. Left tackle is the biggest concern, with several 2025 starters either injured or about to become free agents.

Bears rookie Ozzy Trapilo suffered a serious knee injury during the playoff win over the Green Bay Packers. He is expected to miss most of the 2026 season. Former starter Braxton Jones is currently a free agent, and the team cannot guarantee he will re-sign. Theo Benedet also dealt with injuries in 2025, forcing the Bears to move guard Joe Thuney to left tackle during the playoffs.

Robinson also has a history of injuries, including a torn ACL in 2018 and a meniscus tear in 2022. However, some analysts believe a veteran tackle like him could still bring experience and leadership to the Bears. He could also help stabilize the offensive line and protect the quarterback, even on a short-term deal. 

The post Chicago Bears predicted to sign $12M OT in NFL free agency appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Former Super Bowl champion Tyreek Hill has been released by the Miami Dolphins. He has now caught the attention of many NFL teams, including, potentially, the Chicago Bears. The five-time first-team All-Pro wide receiver will now get to choose his next team before the 2026 season starts.

Unfortunately, Hill suffered a gruesome season-ending injury during the Dolphins’ Week 4 match against the New York Jets. He underwent major surgery to repair his dislocated knee, including a torn ACL. 

Hill’s surgery went well, and he is expected to make a full recovery and play in the 2026 season. Which is why many NFL teams are on notice after the Dolphins released him on Monday.

Chicago Bears a possible destination for Tyreek Hill?

Hill was an impressive athlete out of college. He played football for the Oklahoma State Cowboys. Hill won the Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year and was included in the First-team All-Big 12 in 2014. Hill finished his collegiate career with the University of West Alabama. He had off-the-field issues that caused the Cowboys to dismiss him.

Because of his troubles away from football, Hill was projected to go undrafted during the 2016 NFL draft. He was not even invited to participate in the NFL Combine. Despite that, he was able to impress some scouts during West Alabama’s Pro Day.

Hill was eventually selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fifth round with the 165th overall pick. Hill impressed during his rookie season, playing 16 games and registering 593 receiving yards with 6 touchdowns. He was included in the 2016 PFWA NFL All-Rookie Team and was named to the 2016 All-Pro team.

Hill won a championship with the Chiefs against the San Francisco 49ers during Super Bowl 54. In 2022, the Chiefs traded Hill to the Dolphins in exchange for a 2022 first-round pick and four more future picks. He immediately signed a four-year extension worth $120 million with the Dolphins.

After four seasons in Miami, Hill was released by the Dolphins with the goal of clearing cap space. The eight-time Pro Bowler’s future is still uncertain. Could Chicago emerge as a landing spot for the controversial wideout in NFL free agency? 

Tyreek Hill is a Free Agent.

Bears fans, do you want to see him in Orange and Blue? pic.twitter.com/VVIbWPd3uH

— BearsMuse (@ChiBearsMuse) February 16, 2026

The prospect of Hill joining the Bears in free agency has been met with mixed reactions from Bears fans. Some people are saying that they don’t want to sign Hill because they already have enough wide receivers. Some are open to signing him, but only at a discounted rate. 

“We already have enough depth at the WR position” a comment on X read.

“More the merrier ” responded another.

“i would love to see him in Ben Johnson’s system.. the speedy wide out that’s needed,” a user wrote.

“Nope. Character issues that aren’t needed or welcome,” declared a fan.

The post Chicago Bears fans react to Tyreek Hill NFL free agency link appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears could see a veteran safety depart for the New York Giants in free agency. A media outlet has named C.J. Gardner‑Johnson as a potential target to strengthen New York’s defensive backfield.

Gardner‑Johnson has played seven NFL seasons since entering the league in 2019. He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints after a standout college career with the Florida Gators. He later played for the Philadelphia Eagles, Detroit Lions and Houston Texans before joining Chicago in 2025.

 In 2022, Gardner‑Johnson played in Super Bowl 57 with the Eagles, but they lost to the Kansas City Chiefs. He left Philadelphia after that campaign and spent the 2023 season with the Lions. Gardner-Johnson returned to the Eagles in 2024 and helped the team win Super Bowl 59. He recorded six interceptions that season.

Last year, however, Gardner-Johnson’s career path was less stable and unpredictable. He began 2025 with the Texans but was released midseason. The Bears signed him later in the season to fill gaps in their defensive secondary. The 28-year-old safety once made $9 million a year but signed for the league’s minimum just to finish the season.

With Chicago, he played 10 games and recorded two interceptions and three sacks. 

After rocky Chicago Bears season, C.J. Gardner-Johnson could join Giants

Gardner-Johnson could be on the move again this offseason. Fox Sports predicts he could sign with the Giants. The media outlet said, “giving him a valuation is difficult.”

“Is he the guy who got $9 million a year not that long ago, or the one who was cut in-season and took a league-minimum deal with the Bears?” the outlet noted.

Some analysts said his 2025 season showed flashes of brilliance but also periods of struggle. According to Fox News, matching him with the right coach could be key to Gardner-Johnson’s bounce-back.

“Pairing him with the right coach to get him focused and playing at a high level again is a gamble that could still pay off,” the outlet said.

While the prediction isn’t a confirmed deal, it may indicate New York’s interest in experienced defensive talent.

If he joins the Giants, Gardner-Johnson could boost their defensive backfield. He could also teach younger defenders to thrive under pressure. 

Gardner‑Johnson already has a Super Bowl ring, but his next contract will determine if he can perform at an elite level again.

The post Chicago Bears set to lose Super Bowl winner to Giants appeared first on ChiCitySports.

With the Chicago Bears being in a rough salary cap situation for the 2026 offseason, the team is expected to move on from some solid players and fan favorites in order to create more cap room for the 2026 regular season.

The team will have some very tough decisions with cap cuts becoming inevitable.

More news: Chicago Bears predicted to sign game changing edge rusher in 2026 NFL free agency

According to Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox, a fan favorite and offensive weapon of the Bears could be on the trade block in order to clear more cap space.

Could the Chicago Bears move on from Cole Kmet?

More news: Chicago Bears can’t afford to lose this top free agent

Knox ranks the Bears veteran tight end as the second best player that could be on the trade block for 2026. Knox discussed that Chicago could clear 8.4 million of cap space if they move on from the hometown player.

Due to multiple starting tight ends being available in free agency, Knox believes that the value for Kmet would only be a fifth-round draft pick.

”Kmet isn’t likely to bring a sizeable return, in part because tight ends like Kyle Pitts, Dallas Goedert, Isaiah Likely, and David Njoku are slated to hit free agency. However, he will interest teams in need of a pass-catching tight end.”

Despite Kmet having a down year in 2025, I feel he is too valuable to give up.

Kmet was a very solid blocker in Ben Johnson’s offense in 2025 and was able to come in clutch in the passing game when needed.

The Bears might be better off by restructuring his contract or extending him in order to create more cap room.

The tight end duo of Kmet and Colston Loveland could and should be a dominant force in the Bears’ offense for years to come.

The post Chicago Bears tight end ranked among top trade candidates for 2026 offseason appeared first on ChiCitySports.

It is a pretty well-known fact that the Chicago Bears are going to be targeting defensive line help this off-season. This, of course, is why there have been so many rumors linking them to disgruntled Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby. However, Crosby’s massive contract is a very real stumbling block, one that may prevent most NFL teams from acquiring him.

Due to this, the Bears may have to look at other avenues to supplement their defensive line. Today, the Miami Dolphins made a number of high-profile roster cuts, and one of them could provide Chicago the answer that they are looking for.

Chicago Bears named potential landing spot for Bradley Chubb

The most notable name that Miami released today was five-time First Team All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill. As he is recovering from a gruesome leg/knee injury, it is not yet known if he will play in the NFL at all in 2026.

Another player, though, that could be intriguing to multiple NFL teams is two-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Bradley Chubb, who was also released by the Dolphins today.

In a recent article posted by CBS Sports, the Bears were listed as a possible landing spot for the former Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate:

“The Bears, like the Colts and Panthers, didn’t get after the quarterback much this past season. They ranked 29th in pressure rate despite employing Montez Sweat on one side of the line. The rest of the edge group just did not have any juice whatsoever. Chubb isn’t the type of player who will solve the problem single-handedly, but as part of a multi-pronged approach, he could make sense.”

After missing the entire 2024 NFL season with a torn ACL, Chubb returned to the Dolphins in 2025, played all 17 games, and registered 8.5 sacks.

When the 2026 NFL season begins, Chubb will be 30 years old. His age, therefore, may scare multiple teams away, as will his injury history.

That being said, he still has something left to give and could view Chicago as an ideal situation for himself due to the fact they are a postseason contender.

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For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears are looking to take that next step this offseason to make sure this previous season was not a fluke. Their team needs to clear some space to sign free agents, as they are currently over the salary cap by more than $5.3 million at this point. There are some improvements that the team needs to take that next step, and there are some free agents who could do that. Let’s take a deeper dive into one person who could be joining the team this offseason.

The Chicago Bears are predicted to sign offensive lineman Cam Robinson

Fox Sports’ writer Greg Auman wrote an article predicting where the top 100 NFL free agents, and a few where predicted to land with Chicago. Below is the section he wrote regarding the pairing:

“Robinson, 30, has played for four teams in the last two seasons, and was twice traded before finishing 2025 in Cleveland. He’s gone from franchise tags to a $12 million contract last year, and he’ll likely take less than that as he searches for some stability. He has 114 career starts, and that kind of experinece makes him a known commodity, which is valuable at tackle. Could the Bears, with injury concerns for at least the start of 2026, be a good match?”

Robinson struggled last season with the Cleveland Browns as Pro Football Focus gave him the following rankings amongst the 89 offensive tackles in 2025:

• 48.2 PFF grade (83rd)
• 56.2 pass blocking grade (73rd)
• 48.3 run blocking grade (82nd)

He also allowed eight sacks and committed 14 penalties during his 755 offensive snaps. With left tackle Ozzy Trapilo suffering a ruptured patellar tendon in the postseason, this could be a good player who can compete for a starting offensive tackle position. This is not the only free agent Auman is predicting Chicago will sign. It will be intriguing to see if the Bears are going to be interested in bringing in a veteran offensive lineman during the free agency period.

The post Cleveland Browns offensive lineman predicted to sign with the Chicago Bears appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are still weighing who to keep among their top safeties. Jaquan Brisker and Kevin Byard are both set to hit free agency.

Brisker, 26, has played four NFL seasons, all with the Bears. He joined the team after being selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL draft.

After missing time due to injuries, he bounced back in 2025. He recorded 93 tackles and strengthened the Bears’ defense. Over his first four seasons, Brisker appeared in 52 games, totaling 342 tackles and 7.0 sacks. He completed the final year of his rookie contract in 2025.

Brisker has youth and talent, but he suffered three concussions. This could impact his ability to secure a long-term deal.

Byard, 32, signed with the Bears in March 2024 after being released by the Philadelphia Eagles. He played in all 17 games in 2024 and recorded a team-leading 130 tackles.

Byard followed that with 93 tackles and a league-leading seven interceptions in 2025. He also earned his third Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro honors and was named Chicago’s Defensive Player of the Year.

Byard began his NFL career in 2016 with the Tennessee Titans. He earned two first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors with the Titans before joining the Eagles. These achievements established him as one of the league’s top safeties.

Chicago Bears Face Tough Choice: Jaquan Brisker or Kevin Byard?

Both Brisker and Byard can sign with another team if the Bears fail to reach new deals with them. Fox Sports predicts the Bears will likely choose Byard over Brisker.

The outlet forecasts that Byard will re-sign with Chicago, while Brisker will join the Las Vegas Raiders. There is speculation that the team may part ways with Brisker because of concussion concerns.

“Chicago has major decisions to make on who to keep in that group and who to let go, with Brisker and veteran safety Kevin Byard both free agents. Will teams make a big investment in a player who’s had three concussions?” Fox Sports wrote.

Brisker suffered his third diagnosed concussion in October 2024. He missed the final 12 games of the season. Repeated concussions raise serious long-term health concerns, which are now part of the team’s evaluation. However, some analysts argue Brisker remains one of the defense’s most impactful players when healthy, as was evident last season.

The Bears are carefully weighing their options, as they also have limited salary cap space for new contracts. Due to budget constraints, the team may not be able to afford both Brisker and Byard.

For Fox Sports, keeping Byard makes sense. The outlet said he is a crucial defensive leader, and even a short-term contract would benefit the Bears.

“He set the tone on a defense predicated on takeaways, so keeping him on a one-year deal wouldn’t be bad at all for the Bears, who won’t be able to keep their talented secondary intact,” the outlet said.

As of now, nothing is official. These forecasts are only predictions. Chicago has not yet made a final decision on Brisker or Byard, keeping fans in suspense as free agency approaches.

The post Chicago Bears expected to make Jaquan Brisker, Kevin Byard decision appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Speculation is rising that New Orleans Saints linebacker Demario Davis may join the Chicago Bears this NFL offseason.

Davis joined New Orleans in March 2018. He agreed to a three-year contract after leaving the New York Jets. His impact on the Saints was immediate, demonstrating leadership while bolstering the defense.

Valuing his performance, the Saints extended and restructured his contract multiple times, most recently in March 2024. The latest deal runs through the 2025 season.

Since joining New Orleans, Davis has consistently topped tackle charts each season. In 2025, the 37-year-old linebacker recorded a career-high 143 tackles (64 solo). He also registered six tackles for loss and two quarterback hits.

According to a new free agency scouting report from Fox Sports, it’s impressive at 37, an age when most linebackers have already retired. Few players at his position remain active every week, which makes Davis’ consistency even more impressive.

“Davis, still going at 37, managed to set a career high with 143 tackles for the Saints in 2025. He’s at an age where linebackers rarely exist, let alone play as actively as he does,” the media outlet noted.

Fox Sports also highlighted his remarkable durability, noting he played “at least 1,000 defensive snaps” each season for six straight years. This proves he’s not just playing — he’s rarely leaving the field.

During his New Orleans tenure, Davis has emerged as an elite NFL linebacker, earning multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors. In eight years with the Saints, the former Arkansas State Red Wolves standout has amassed 954 tackles (565 solo), 78 tackles for loss and 65 QB hits. He’s also registered 48 passes defended, five forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries.

Currently, Davis is a free agent. In January, he announced plans to return for a 15th season.

Demario Davis predicted to join the Chicago Bears

Fox Sports predicted Davis could sign with the Bears this offseason. The move would reunite him with former Saints head coach Dennis Allen, who is currently Chicago’s defensive coordinator.

The outlet said the veteran linebacker deserves to finish his career with a contender. He has played 227 regular-season games but only five playoff appearances and two wins.

Fox Sports noted that even late in his career, Davis is still considered one of the NFL’s most durable defenders. He continues to set career highs and defies expectations.

If he signs with Chicago, Davis could strengthen their defensive leadership. Veteran players provide guidance, helping younger teammates maintain discipline and focus during high-pressure situations.

For the Saints, losing Davis would mark the end of an era, as he has been a cornerstone on the field and in the locker room.

The post Saints’ linebacker predicted to sign with Chicago Bears in NFL free agency appeared first on ChiCitySports.

When Pro Bowl cornerback Nahshon Wright signed with the Chicago Bears in 2025, it didn’t generate much buzz. Many considered the one-year, $1.1 million deal a low-risk move.

Wright joined Chicago after starting his career with the Dallas Cowboys, which drafted him in 2021. After limited opportunities in Dallas, he was traded to the Minnesota Vikings in 2024. Wright played just one game for Minnesota that season.

Over the course of the 2025 season, Wright quickly became one of the Bears’ most important players. As the team’s cornerback, he played a defensive position responsible for stopping opposing pass attempts. This role requires speed, awareness and precise timing. Wright excelled in all three.

One of his most memorable moments came in Week 1 against the Minnesota Vikings. Wright intercepted a pass and ran it back 74 yards for a touchdown. He turned this potential Vikings score into a Chicago touchdown.

In November, he forced or recovered turnovers in five straight games, a rare accomplishment in today’s NFL. His performance earned him the NFC Defensive Player of the Month. He later earned his first Pro Bowl selection. By season’s end, Wright had become a key defender. He boosted the Bears’ defense with turnovers and big plays.

In his four seasons with Dallas, Wright started only three games and recorded just one interception. With the Bears, however, he played all 17 regular-season games and built a reputation for game-changing plays. He recorded five interceptions and three fumble recoveries. That totaled eight takeaways — the most in the NFL.

Nahshon Wright rumored to depart Chicago Bears for New York Jets in offseason move

Now, the Bears may be facing a major offseason loss. A new prediction suggests Wright would leave the team. Fox Sports projected that Wright could sign with the New York Jets once free agency begins.

Fox said Wright “helped himself in 2025 as much as any player” and turned his short-term contract into a career-defining opportunity. The media outlet has described him as “a ballhawk on one of the NFL’s best takeaway defenses.” That means he excelled at stealing the ball from opponents and creating scoring opportunities.

The Bears may struggle to re-sign Wright because, as Fox Sports reported, “Chicago is over the salary cap right now.” This financial challenge makes it difficult for the team to keep top free agents.

The outlet also highlighted Wright’s potential earnings after emerging as one of Chicago’s top defensive players.

“Wright could end up the high-dollar corner in this not-particularly-deep class, drawing $16 million a year or more,” Fox said.

Free agency often gives bigger contracts to breakout players, and Wright is more valuable than ever. But even though Wright could cost a lot, the Jets might still want to sign him to strengthen their defense. New York has been making significant changes, and adding a player like him fits their plan.

If the prediction holds true, Chicago could see one of their best players leave just after one year. Losing the 27-year-old veteran cornerback would surely hurt the team. His skills have helped the Bears make clutch plays and win games.

Now, all eyes are on whether Chicago keeps Wright or if he joins the Jets next season.

The post Chicago Bears predicted to lose Pro Bowler to New York Jets appeared first on ChiCitySports.

A highly-rated defensive tackle for the Ohio State Buckeyes has been linked to the Chicago Bears by the NFL’s analyst. This is ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, which will be held April 23 to 25 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The Bears are looking to build on an impressive run in the 2025 NFL season under head coach Ben Johnson. In Johnson’s debut season, the Bears won their first playoff game in 15 years. They also finished with an 11-6 record, clinching the NFC North title for the first time since 2018.

With all that over, the Bears now turn their attention to the upcoming NFL draft, wherein they will be selecting No. 25 in the first round. One prospect that should be on their radar is Buckeyes defensive tackle Kayden McDonald.

Kayden McDonald, a potential draft pick for the Chicago Bears

McDonald, a 6-foot-3, 326-pound defensive tackle, is widely projected to be a late pick in the first round of the draft. He entered Ohio State as a four-star recruit and had a top-12-ranked DT from North Gwinnett High School in Georgia.

In high school, McDonald finished his prep career with 46 sacks and 131 tackles for loss. He also contributed offensively in short-yardage situations. With the Buckeyes, he worked his way into the defensive line rotation and played in all 16 games during the 2024 CFP championship run.

In Chad Reuter’s latest mock draft for NFL.com, he has the Bears picking McDonald 25th overall.

“The Bears are looking for a defensive tackle to control the line of scrimmage, so they are thrilled to see McDonald available here,” Reuter wrote.

The NFL describes McDonald as a talented run defender who plays with natural leverage. His overview also stated that he quickly locates ball-carriers, plays off blocks and rallies to the action. Aside from McDonald’s exploits on the field, he was also named OSU Scholar-Athlete twice. He also earned Academic All-Big Ten honors.

The post NFL links Chicago Bears to All-American DT ahead of 2026 Draft appeared first on ChiCitySports.

WNBA sensation Caitlin Clark is known for buzzer-beaters and jaw-dropping highlights. However, this week, she was caught off guard by a different kind of headline involving the Chicago Bears.

Iowa, Clark’s home state, has entered the race to host a new stadium for the Bears. The state joins Indiana and several Illinois cities in the competition.

According to a report by Front Office Sports, Iowa lawmakers filed a proposal to entice the Bears to build a new stadium in the state. The new bill, Senate File 2252, would modify Iowa’s Major Economic Growth Attraction (MEGA) program.

MEGA currently offers incentives to companies investing at least $1 billion in the state. The program primarily supports advanced manufacturing, biosciences and research and development. The new bill would allow those incentives to support an NFL team’s construction of a stadium.

Seven state senators filed the bill, including Sen. Kerry Gruenhagen and Sen. Scott Webster. Gruenhagen said Iowa wants to show it is ready for the Bears. He added that the state would act while its competitors debate stadium plans.

Iowa’s bid follows recent stadium proposals in Gary, Indiana, and multiple Illinois cities. Iowa does not have any major professional sports teams.

 Caitlin Clark reacts to Iowa’s attempt to lure the Chicago Bears

Clark had a moment of disbelief when she saw this headline on social media: “Iowa wants the Chicago Bears.”

“This is not something I’d thought I’d see,” she wrote on Instagram, with four laughing emojis.

Caitlin Clark reacts to Iowa’s reported interest in the Chicago Bears

(via @caitlinclark22 on IG) pic.twitter.com/mnR9GRQokM

— Paolo Songco (@PaoloSongcoNBA) February 12, 2026

In addition to being one of the top superstars in women’s basketball, Clark is also a huge sports fan. She supports the Kansas City Chiefs. However, as a native of Des Moines, Iowa, she could not help but react to her home state potentially getting its own NFL team.

The Bears currently play at Soldier Field in downtown Chicago. They have been at the historic venue since 1971, except during the 2002 renovations. The team has considered building a new stadium for years, including moving to a different location.

The stadium project is estimated to cost over $5 billion. The Bears recently requested $855 million in public infrastructure funding. A new stadium would take about three years to build, and the Bears had hoped to break ground by now.

The post WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark reacts to big Chicago Bears rumor appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Could one of this year’s most sought-after NFL free agents be heading to the Chicago Bears? A news outlet forecasted that the Bears could be the next team for veteran defensive star Trey Hendrickson.

Hendrickson, 31, is an edge rusher. He is a defensive player who attacks quarterbacks from the edges and disrupts offensive plays. Since the Cincinnati Bengals signed him in 2021, he has been one of the NFL’s most productive defenders.

Hendrickson recorded 17.5 sacks in consecutive seasons in 2023 and 2024. This is rare in the NFL. Few players reach 17 or more sacks, and even fewer do it in consecutive campaigns.

Hendrickson established himself as a cornerstone of the Bengals’ defense with over 60 sacks in Cincinnati alone. In 2024, he earned first-team All-Pro honors and made four straight Pro Bowls from 2021 to 2024. These recognitions show the NFL considers him one of the best players at his position.

Hendrickson has played nine seasons in the NFL, starting with the New Orleans Saints in 2017 before joining the Bengals. He has recorded 236 career tackles, including 162 solo stops. He also has 81 career sacks and 15 forced fumbles, demonstrating his impact as a pass rusher. These stats highlight his ability to make solo plays and consistently contribute to his team’s defense.

Last year, the Bengals rewarded him with a $29 million, one-year deal. But they got only seven games out of him due to a hip and pelvis injury. He had core muscle surgery in December, limiting him to 16 tackles and 4.0 sacks during the 2025 season.

Trey Hendrickson may land with Chicago Bears

Despite the injury-shortened campaign, Hendrickson remains one of the most intriguing free-agent players on the market. ESPN ranks him as the NFL’s No. 1 overall free agent. It reflects the belief that a healthy Hendrickson can still be a game-changer.

The main question is what kind of contract he will receive. After receiving $29 million last year, it is unclear whether a team will guarantee him multiple years or offer more than $20 million per season.

Fox Sports recently predicted that Hendrickson will sign with the Bears, who have struggled defensively in recent years. Chicago has been actively looking to improve its ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks. Hendrickson has a strong history of doing exactly that.

Hendrickson is also closing in on a major milestone: he needs 19 more sacks to reach 100 for his career. He could realistically achieve that in two healthy seasons. If the Bears believe his health is trending upward, signing a motivated veteran chasing that benchmark could help. Hendrickson could be the experienced pass rusher who anchors and strengthens the team’s defense.

NFL free agency opens March 9, with players able to officially sign with new teams starting March 11. Before that, many may re-sign with their current teams or get the franchise tag. Teams are expected to write over $1 billion in new contracts.

While nothing is finalized, a deal between Hendrickson and the Bears could be a major offseason story. For Chicago, signing Henrickson would mark a new era for the franchise.  

The post Chicago Bears linked to $29 million star in NFL free agency appeared first on ChiCitySports.

With free agency being just around the corner for the NFL, the Chicago Bears will be looking to fill some much needed holes for their defensive front.

More news: ESPN: Chicago Bears could draft 11.5-sack defensive end

Despite having an incredible 2025 season, Chicago has a lot to improve on. Specifically, the pass rush needs major improvement.

As everyone knows, the Bears’ defensive line underperformed in 2025. The lack of pass rush was a key weakness for the team throughout the season. Fox Sports’ Greg Gauman has predicted that the top defensive player in 2026’s free agent class will be signing with Chicago.

Trey Hendrickson is predicted to sign with the Chicago Bears in 2026

More news: Chicago Bulls trade deadline grade revealed

Gauman listed the Bengals edge rusher as the fourth best available player among the 2026 free agent class and predicts he will sign with the Bears.

What are potential landing spots for the top NFL free agents?@gregauman made his predictions

Read more: https://t.co/XqSVK3MVDZ pic.twitter.com/CR5jtFglaR

— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) February 11, 2026

After having a lackluster 2025, Hendrickson is expected to leave the Bengals following contract issues the previous offseason and following a core muscle surgery.

Hendrickson has been listed by many as a potential fit for the Bears since last offseason. It was also reported that general manager Ryan Poles checked in on the availability for the Bengals star during the 2025 trade deadline.

Is Trey Hendrickson worth the investment?

The four time Pro Bowl edge rusher would be an instant game changer to Dennis Allen’s defense. Due to his letdown season in 2025, the Bears might be able to snag Hendrickson for a cheaper deal than expected.

Another positive for signing Hendrickson is that the team won’t have to spend draft capital by trading for a pass rusher. Chicago could then have a pass rush consisting of Hendrickson, Montez Sweat, and potentially the 25th overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.

The Bears must do something big to fix their pass rush in 2026. If the team can do that, their chances at being a Super Bowl contender could skyrocket.

The post Chicago Bears predicted to sign game changing edge rusher in 2026 NFL free agency appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are facing some tough roster decisions as the team looks ahead to the 2026 NFL season. Now that Super Bowl LX is over, rumors and speculation are continuing to flow, but more earnestly. A few of these rumblings include what Chicago is going to do at the running back position next season.

D’Andre Swift is entering the final year of his three-year $24 million contract. He has an $8.8 million cap hit in 2026, but just a $1.3 million dead cap hit. The ability to save $7.5 million in cap space may lead the Bears to release him when the new league year begins in March.

And if they do indeed do that, they will need a new running back. And one former Bears wide receiver has the perfect replacement in mind.

Former Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson predicts team will sign Kenneth Walker III

Former Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson was a guest on BetMGM Tonight, and was asked where he believed Kenneth Walker, the Super Bowl LX MVP, would end up in free agency.

He answered:

“The Chicago Bears. Ben Johnson loves the run game and being able to have a two-headed monster in the backfield. We saw that this season. We also saw that in Chicago. Not to mention being able to lure one of the better players in the NFC from the Super Bowl champion now to your team, the expertise, what he can do on the field.

“I think it goes deeper than them just acquiring Kenneth Walker, but for the reasons of them getting him from the Seahawks and also being able to be big in that run game with some of the weapons that they have on the outside and the surge that we saw from Caleb Williams this season.”

Walker is coming off of a season in which he rushed 221 times for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns. In the Super Bowl, he had 135 rushing yards and 26 receiving yards on his way to winning the game’s MVP Award.

Spotrac currently has Walker’s market value as a four-year $36 million deal, or $9 million a year. Should Chicago want Walker, at this contract, they could structure it in a way in which he would have a smaller cap hit than Swift.

That being said, seeing as he is now a Super Bowl MVP, Walker may have multiple suitors, and the Bears may not be able to afford to get into a bidding war.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Jayden Daniels appears jealous of Bears’ Caleb Williams
• Bears rookie Colston Loveland gets big surprise amid NFL offseason
• Bears development emerges after Super Bowl LX

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears had a Renaissance season in 2025, in large part due to the change they made at head coach. Ben Johnson took a team that finished 5-12 in 2024 and led them to an 11-6 record in 2025. They won the NFC north, were the second seed in the NFC, and knocked the hated Green Bay Packers out of the NFL Playoffs.

A new weapon that emerged for Johnson and the Bears offense was rookie tight end Colston Loveland, whom they selected with the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. And while many outside of Chicago criticized taking a tight end so high, the move more than worked out for them. He had 58 receptions for 713 yards and six touchdowns as a rookie, and just scratched the surface of what he can be in the NFL.

However, his emergence likely spells the end of line for another tight end: Cole Kmet.

The Chicago Bears can save over $8 million by parting ways with Cole Kmet

It is fairly well-known that Chicago has some holes on their roster that they need to fill. However, it also well-known that they currently do not have the salary cap space to sign their upcoming draft class, much less address their needs in free agency.

Therefore, the Bears are going to have to make some cuts to their roster, and Kmet seems like a likely cut candidate based on his declining production and salary:

“Near the top of the list is entertaining the idea of parting ways with Cole Kmet via trade after a breakout season from rookie tight end Colston Loveland. From the moment the Bears drafted Loveland, it seemed that Kmet was on borrowed time, and now it makes sense to go ahead and part ways with the pass catcher, opening up further cap space.”

Over the last three seasons, Kmet’s production has declined greatly:

Clearly, quarterback Caleb Williams has much more rapport with Loveland than Kmet, as evidenced by the table above.

What is more, Kmet is set to carry a salary cap hit of $11.6 million. However, he has a dead cap hit of just $3.2 million, which means the Bears can save $8.4 million by either trading Kmet or outright releasing him.

Obviously, trading him would be the preferred outcome because Chicago can get some draft compensation in return and, to an extent, control where he goes, ensuring he does not join a rival team.

However, NFL teams may suspect that they will release Kmet anyway and wait for him to hit the open market.

Either way, it does not seem likely that he will be back with the Bears next season. If this is the end of the road for Kmet with Chicago, he will end his tenure with the team with 2,939 career receiving yards and 21 touchdowns.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears close to “large public” package from Illinois for new stadium
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• Bears QB Caleb Williams turns heads after Drake Maye’s Super Bowl LX performance

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears and their head coach, Ben Johnson, have finally found the offensive coordinator they have needed, since former offensive coordinator Declan Doyle took the offensive coordinator role with the Baltimore Ravens.

More News: Former Chicago Bears GM parting ways with Falcons after Ian Cunningham hire

To fill Doyle’s shows and assist Johnson with the playcalling, the Bears decided to hire from within, promoting passing game coordinator Press Taylor to offensive coordinator, according to NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero, and Mike Garafolo. Taylor, 38, was the Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator (2022-24) and was integral in Pro Bowl quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s development.

Taylor has also worked with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Indianapolis Colts in various roles.

The #Bears are promoting passing game coordinator Press Taylor to offensive coordinator, giving coach Ben Johnson a new top lieutenant, per The Insiders.

Taylor was an OC with the #Jaguars until 2024 before working with Johnson. With Declan Doyle in Baltimore, Taylor is the OC. pic.twitter.com/vWlEr6G8qA

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 8, 2026

Press Taylor should add another quality voice to take the Chicago Bears’ offense to the next level

Even though Johnson will be the primary play caller, having another voice with play-calling experience to offer a different perspective could help in late-game situations or when telling Johnson that going for it on fourth down may not be a great idea. The Bears had the sixth-best offense in the NFL in Johnson’s first season as the head coach (369.5 yards) and had the best offense in the playoffs, despite their elimination (431.0).

This move by the Bears appears to be a smart one, as Taylor will offer continuity to quarterback Caleb Williams, who, aside from being great in the fourth quarter, needs to show growth throughout the game. With running backs D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai, and receivers/tight ends Rome Odunze, DJ Moore, Luther Burden III, and Colston Loveland all returning, the Bears are in good shape to do well next season.

The post Chicago Bears hire from within their coaching staff as their next OC appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are definitely in need of pass-rushing help this offseason, as Montez Sweat and Gervon Dexter were their only truly reliable players in that department this past year.

Perhaps Austin Booker will flourish more with a full 17-game campaign under his belt, but the jury is still out on him, and the Bears really do not have much depth behind him. Especially not after Dayo Odeyingbo tore his Achilles halfway through 2025.

While Las Vegas Raiders superstar Maxx Crosby has regularly been pitched as a potential trade target for Chicago, it seems a bit unrealistic. However, another much more feasible edge rusher could emerge on the trade front: New York Giants linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux.

With the Giants having both Brian Burns and Abdul Carter on the edge, Thibodeaux seems like a prime trade candidate, especially with just one year left on his contract. But would the Bears make a push for the former first-round pick?

Could the Chicago Bears swing a trade for Kayvon Thibodeaux?

Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine has tabbed Thibodeaux as one of Chicago’s top three trade targets this offseason.

“If taking on Crosby’s massive contract would be an issue then a player like Kayvon Thibodeaux would also be a good target. Brian Burns and Abdul Carter are the clear 1-2 punch in New York,” Ballentine wrote.

Thibodeaux entered the NFL back in 2022 and showed immediate potential, registering 49 tackles, four sacks, a couple of forced fumbles and a pair of fumble recoveries during his rookie campaign. He then appeared to break out with 50 tackles and 11.5 sacks in 2023.

Since then, however, Thibodeaux’s time in New York has been severely hindered by injuries. He missed five games due to a wrist issue in 2024, and this past season, he was sidelined for the final seven contests of the campaign as a result of a shoulder injury.

The 25-year-old also totaled just eight sacks over the last couple of seasons, so the Giants may be prepared to move on from him.

But what would be the cost? The Bears may have to part with a third-round pick in exchange for Thibodeaux, which may seem relatively steep given his production the past two years. However, the University of Oregon product obviously has talent, and Chicago is in dire need of another pass rusher.

It might be worth it for the Bears to part with a Day 2 selection pry Thibodeaux away from the Big Apple.

The post Chicago Bears linked to major trade for former first-round pass rusher appeared first on ChiCitySports.

One of the biggest needs the Chicago Bears need to address this off-season is along their defensive line. While Montez Sweat had 10.0 sacks in 2025, he was the only Bears defender who was regularly able to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks. As such, many NFL analysts believe they will find a way to address this issue during the off-season.

Of course, they could certainly do so in the NFL Draft, as there are many prospects who could provide depth. But with the Bears in “win now” mode after winning the NFC North this past season, they could use an established veteran as well.

The problem, though, is that Chicago’s salary cap will prevent them from being big spenders in free agency. That being said, they could reunite with one of their former stars for a reasonable price.

The Chicago Bears could reunite with Khalil Mack in free agency

While Trey Hendrickson is a name that many link to the Bears in free agency, the fact of the matter is that Chicago is unlikely to be able to afford him. If they want to address the pass rush in free agency, they will need to look elsewhere.

One possibility is reuniting with Khalil Mack, who played for the Bears from 2018-2021. During that time, he made three Pro Bowls and accumulated 36.0 sacks.

PFF says of Mack, their 34th ranked free agent in 2026:

“A healthy Mack is good for around 50 quarterback pressures and eight sacks per season at this point in his 12-year career — and that’s plenty of production for an edge-needy team. His 240 pressures over the past four seasons are the 11th most among all edge defenders. However, Mack is reportedly contemplating retirement.”

They also state that his current contract projection is for one year and $14 million.

The big question, though, is whether Mack wants to play in the NFL at all in 2026. As noted above, he is contemplating retirement.

In an ideal world, the Bears would be able to lure him back for one last hurrah, with Mack starting opposite Sweat on the defensive line. Chicago could also draft a pass rusher early and bring him along slowly behind the future Pro Football Hall of Famer.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

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For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears improved in just about every facet in the 2025 NFL season. This was particularly true on offense as first-year head coach Ben Johnson introduced new schemes that benefited stack Caleb Williams. Indeed, Williams had one of the best single seasons in franchise history by a quarterback, with 58.1% completion percentage, a franchise record 3,942 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, seven interceptions, and a passer rating of 90.1.

It also saw Chicago utilize their tight ends more frequently, and rookie Colston Loveland led the team in both receptions (58) and receiving yards (713).

More Chicago Bears news:  Bears get brutal draft news after Ian Cunningham exit

This development, as well as the Bears’ salary cap situation, has made wide receiver DJ Moore a common name mentioned in potential trades.

The Chicago Bears predicted to trade DJ Williams to the Tennessee Titans

One potential trade that has been suggested was written by Christopher Kline of Fansided, who suggests that the Bears trade Moore to the Tennessee Titans:

“D.J. Moore put some incredible plays on tape this season, but he also gave up on a critical route in the NFC Divisional Round, leading to an interception. Moore’s reputation is a mixed bag. He’s also entering the penultimate year of his contract, with Rome Odunze separating as the Chicago Bears’ WR1 and Caleb Williams’ favorite target. Now might be the time for the Bears to cash in.

“The Tennessee Titans desperately need to find some help for Cam Ward. Say what you will about Moore, the dude is a monster and only two years removed from a career-high 1,364 receiving yards. Still 28, with gas left in the tank, this feels like a reasonable upside swing for a Titans team with cap space to burn. Ward has all the talent necessary for a star leap in year two, and new OC Brian Daboll is a tried-and-true playcaller. Moore can help the Titans turn this ship around.”

Of course, Moore was originally acquired by Chicago in a trade with the Carolina Panthers in a deal that included Chicago’s first round pick, which at the time was the first overall pick.

It is hard to imagine that the Bears would get anything close to that in return again, but they could get some decent draft compensation should they decided to trade Moore.

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The Chicago Bears had one of the most drastic turnarounds in the NFL this past season. After finishing 5-12 in 2024, the Bears hired Ben Johnson as their head coach and gave him many of the offensive tools he needed to revamp Chicago’s offense. It worked, as Johnson led the team to an 11-6 record and an NFC North title.

What is more, Johnson’s defensive staff, led by Dennis Allen and Al Harris, led the NFL in forced turnovers. However, one area in which they were severely lacking was their pass rush.

And one NFL analyst thinks that signing a four-time Pro Bowler in free agency could help.

The Chicago Bears would need to shed serious salary cap space to sign Trey Hendrickson

Perhaps the most sought-after free agent on the market this off-season is going to be four-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. He only played in seven games in 2025, but back in 2024 had an NFL-leading 17.5 sacks, made his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl, and was named First Team All-Pro.

Max Dible of Heavy believes that Chicago should make a short-term contract offer to Hendrickson, writing:

“Hendrickson, a four-time consecutive Pro Bowler before injuries robbed him of 10 games last season, has been most frequently linked to the Baltimore Ravens within the AFC North Division. However, his salary projection could render him suitable for the Bears’ championship timeline depending on the length of a new deal.

“Spotrac predicts Hendrickson will ink a two-year contract for approximately $51 million total, or roughly $25.5 million annually. Previous projections from other sources tend to land in the same range of annual average salary, though some have the 31-year-old signing a three-year contract.”

Of course, every NFL team would love to be able to have Hendrickson and/or a player of his caliber on their team. And while he would undoubtedly be a major asset to the Bears, the fact remains that they have to make some difficult roster decisions already just to get under the salary cap.

Currently, they are $12 million over the cap according to Spotrac. They will need roughly $10 million just to sign their draft class this year.

$25.5 million a year may be a salary that Chicago simply cannot afford. In order to make it happen, they would need to restructure a number of their current player contracts, and release multiple players. By the time that were to happen, adding Hendrickson may not be enough to make up for all the holes they would have created to afford him.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears get brutal draft news after Ian Cunningham exit
• Bears lose Ian Cunningham to GM job with Atlanta Falcons
• Fixing Bears’ pass rush is not GM’s priority

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears are not in the best position when it comes to their 2026 salary cap. According to Over the Cap, Chicago currently is $17.6 million over the cap for next season. In order to get under the cap, sign their 2026 NFL Draft class, and make free agent signings, the team will have to restructure some contracts and make some rather difficult cuts to the roster.

It also means that some players, who will be entering free agency, are not going to return to Chicago despite how much fans may want them to.

The Chicago Bears could draft Dillon Thieneman instead of re-signing Jaquan Brisker

One of the players that Chicago likely will not be able to bring back is safety/defensive back Jaquan Brisker. A fan favorite in Chicago, the former second round pick is going to be a free agent for the first time in his NFL career following a season in which he played all 17 games, had an interception, eight passes defended, and recorded 93 tackles.

According to Spotrac, Brisker has a market value of three years and $33.3 million, or $11.1 million a year.

Should the Bears choose not to bring Brisker back in 2026, The Athletic recently predicted that they would use their second round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to select Dillon Thieneman, a safety from Oregon.

Per Lance Zierlein of NFL.com:

“Savvy three-year starter with NFL size, speed and alignment versatility. Thieneman is an extension of his defensive coordinator, aligning and adjusting the secondary to motion and pre-snap shifts. He’s an instinctive, rangy safety who can roll down into big nickel or robber positioning. He has a good feel for play design and route concepts in zone but has average change of direction to match breaks in man.

“He’s not a big thumper near the line, but he rushes into the action with a relentless pursuit that should allow him to keep stacking high scores in the tackle columns. Thieneman checks important boxes for teams looking to add versatile playmakers in the secondary.”

With Brisker likely to get a better contract offer elsewhere, taking Thieneman in this year’s draft could be a good idea.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears get brutal draft news after Ian Cunningham exit
• Bears lose Ian Cunningham to GM job with Atlanta Falcons
• Fixing Bears’ pass rush is not GM’s priority

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears were one of the most exciting teams in the NFL this season thanks much in part to their dynamic offense led by quarterback Caleb Williams, but defensively, it was another story for the Bears.

Chicago finished 29th in the league in yards allowed and 23rd in points allowed in 2025, so changes certainly need to be made on that side of the ball.

While the Bears could definitely stand to add another pass rusher, they could also use some work in the secondary. Cornerback Jaylon Johnson is a cut candidate after a disappointing campaign, and safety Jaquan Brisker has probably played his last game in the Windy City.

Chicago does not have a ton of financial flexibility, so it probably won’t be able to land anyone of significance in free agency. The Bears could, however, get creative on the trade market, and Anthony Miller of Bear Goggles On has pitched a very enticing trade candidate for the club: Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III.

Could the Chicago Bears pull off a trade for Jessie Bates III?

Miller acknowledges that a potential Bates trade may be a bit of a stretch, but with former Bears executive Ian Cunningham now the Falcons general manager, perhaps he and Ryan Poles could connect on a deal.

“Bates is a stellar defender the Falcons love to have in their secondary, but they might be thinking about the future and bringing in younger talent,” Miller wrote. “If Chicago can get Bates back there with [Kevin] Byard, this could be an elite safety room.”

Miller’s proposal has Chicago sending a third-round pick back to Atlanta.

Bates racked up 98 tackles, three interceptions and six passes defended in 2025, earning a Second-Team All-Pro selection.

The 28-year-old was originally selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft and spent the first five years of his career with the Bengals, notching Second-Team All-Pro honors in 2020. He signed with the Falcons in 2023 and rattled off 132 tackles, six picks, three forced fumbles and 11 passes defended, making his first Pro Bowl while achieving Second-Team All-Pro recognition yet again.

Bates has also been incredibly durable, having played in all 17 games three straight seasons. He is entering the final year of his contract and is slated to earn a shade over $14 million in 2026.

There is no doubt that acquiring Bates would be a monumental addition for the Bears’ defense.

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The Chicago Bears finished 11-6 this year, won the NFC North, and defeated the hated Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card round of the NFL Playoffs. All of these came just one year after the Bears finished 5-12 and last in the division. And while things are looking up in Chicago as Ben Johnson continues to lead the team forward, the fact of the matter is that they are going to have to make significant changes to their roster before the 2026 NFL season begins.

As it stands, the Bears are $17.6 million over the cap for next season. Not only do they need to get under the salary cap, but they also need to clear enough space to sign their picks from the upcoming NFL Draft and to sign whatever free agents they may need.

The result, unfortunately, is going to be some cuts made to the current roster.

Chicago Bears predicted to release linebacker Tremaine Edmunds

One of the players that Chicago is likely, according to reports, going to move on from is two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Tremaine Edmunds. According to Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report:

“Cutting Edmunds is the biggest cost-cutting move the Bears could make outside of restructures.

“He’s set to cost $17.4 million and nearly all of that would be gone if the Bears cut him. He’s only 27, but he did miss four games this season with a groin injury. It feels more likely that he would be headed to a contract extension that could push money into the future, but linebacker is not a premium position so a cut could be considered.”

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears get brutal draft news after Ian Cunningham exit
• Bears lose Ian Cunningham to GM job with Atlanta Falcons
• Fixing Bears’ pass rush is not GM’s priority

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears are going to have to make some tough decisions when it comes to their roster for the 2026 NFL season. As it currently stands, the Bears are $11.5 million over the salary cap and do not have enough players under contract to fill their 53-man roster. What is more, they will need about $10 million to sign whoever they select in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Obviously, this means that there will be several players currently on the roster who will have their contracts restructured to create cap space. Others, unfortunately, will be cut altogether.

And while it remains to be seen which players the Bears choose to keep and which ones they will cut loose, one possible cap casualty is popular running back D’Andre Swift.

Chicago Bears urged to cut D’Andre Swift in favor of Kenneth Walker III

Swift is entering the final year of the three-year $24 million contract that he signed with Chicago prior to the 2024 NFL season. Should Chicago choose to released him this off-season, they would save $7.5 million on their cap.

And Max Dible of Heavy believes that, if they do that, they could replace him with Kenneth Walker III, who is set to start for the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX:

“Assuming a scenario in which the Bears released Swift, or traded him to a RB-needy team like the Kansas City Chiefs, and then signed Walker to a four-year deal at that number, Chicago would add just $1 million to its 2026 salary cap and secure the running back position for at least three seasons moving forward by pairing Walker with seventh-round rookie Kyle Monangai.”

The problem with this scenario, as Dible himself notes, is that signing Walker to his projected four-year $33.5 million contract, would actually add $1 million to their already stressed salary cap situation. That being said, Chicago could structure the possible deal so that his salary cap hit in 2026 is less while kicking some of the hit down the road.

Walker had 1,027 rushing yards and five touchdowns for the Seahawks. Swift, who is two years older than Walker, had 1,087 rushing yards and nine touchdowns for the Bears.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Sean Payton called out Bears’ Ben Johnson during loss to Rams
• Nahshon Wright adds honor to impressive 2025 NFL season
• NFL legend Tom Brady makes Bears decision

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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It looks like Matt LeFleur and the Green Bay Packers are trying to find a new way to get revenge on Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears.

More news: Chicago Bears HC Ben Johnson confused DJ Moore on interception: Report

The Packers are currently searching for a new defensive coordinator due to Jeff Hafley leaving to become the head coach of the Miami Dolphins.

And according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, LeFleur might be trying to poach one of the Bears’ top assistant coaches.

The Green Bay Packers are interviewing a top Chicago Bears assistant coach

According to ESPN’s top NFL insider, the Packers interviewed Bears defensive backs coach Al Harris on Wednesday, for their opening at defensive coordinator.

Packers interviewed defensive backs coach Al Harris today for their defensive coordinator job.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 22, 2026

Harris was a key factor to the Bears’ success during their magical 2025 season. The Bears’ secondary led the NFL in takeaways. Safety Kevin Byard led the NFL with 7 interceptions under Harris.

Nashon Wright, Tyrique Stevenson, and Kyler Gordon all contributed to the Bears’ success thanks to Harris’ coaching.

It has been widely speculated that Harris would have a good chance at leaving the Bears for a defensive coordinator job, it looks like that it’s one step closer to happening.

Harris leaving Johnson’s staff for the NFC North rival Packers would be a massive blow to the Bears. However, him leaving for the Packers does make sense as he played for the them for multiple seasons during his playing career.

Harris was a two time pro bowl defensive back during his career and was inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame as well.

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Now that the Chicago Bears are officially eliminated from the playoffs after their overtime loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Divisional Round, it is officially time to look at mock drafts. The team has some clear needs heading into the 2026 season and it will be intriguing to see how the front office addresses them. With the team now locked into the 25th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, we can begin to assess who should be available when they are on the clock. Let’s take a look at what one mock draft has them doing with their first-round selection.

The Chicago Bears address the defensive line in this mock draft

Following the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs, Pro Football Focus’s Gordon McGuinness posted a one-round 2026 mock draft. With the 25th pick, he had the Bears drafting Georgia Bulldogs defensive lineman Christen Miller and wrote the following about the selection:

“The Bears could benefit from some reinforcements against the run, and Miller should be able to make an impact in that regard from day one. He earned a 90.2 PFF run-defense grade in 2025. While his 70.0 PFF pass-rush grade is far from bad, he will likely be most valuable in the run game as an NFL player.”

Miller has already officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft and decided to forgo his senior year with the Bulldogs. The 6-foot-4, 305-pound defensive lineman has posted 64 tackles (31 solo, 33 assisted) with one pass deflection and four sacks in his four years (43 games) in Athens. He only played in three of those seasons as he redshirted in 2022 before rotating in the lineup in 2023 before becoming a two-year starter.

According to Mel Kiper Jr, the 20256 AP All-SEC first-team star is the sixth-ranked defensive tackle in the draft class. This would be a welcome addition as almost every single mock draft has the Bears selecting a defensive lineman. With free agents across the defensive line this offseason for the team and finishing with the third-fewest sacks (24) during the regular season, drafting Miller would be an excellent decision by general manager Ryan Poles.

The post Chicago Bears add this defensive lineman in PFF’s recent NFL mock draft appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears were just eliminated by the Los Angeles Rams in the Divisional Round of the playoffs, so now, they will be heading into an offseason full of tough decisions.

The Bears unfortunately do not have a whole lot wiggle room under the salary cap right now, so they will have to make some difficult roster cuts in order to clear some space. Could that mean parting ways with one of their best players?

Cornerback Jaylon Johnson — who signed a four-year, $76 million contract extension with Chicago in March 2024 — has been floated as a potential cap casualty for the Bears, and Mike Payton of A to Z Sports feels that the two-time Pro Bowler could land with one of the worst teams imaginable: the Detroit Lions.

“Johnson is coming off a bad year and an injury, so the Bears are likely to cut bait. The Lions need cornerback depth, and if Johnson can get back to the player he was before 2025, he can help the Lions get some more revenge on the Bears in 2026,” Payton wrote. “The fact that he’s 27 means the Lions might be able to get a couple of years out of him.”

That could end up being disastrous for Chicago.

Will the Chicago Bears cut Jaylon Johnson?

The Bears certainly aren’t guaranteed to cut ties with Johnson, but knowing their unenviable financial situation, it’s something they may strongly consider.

It could end up coming back to haunt Chicago, as Johnson is a terrific player when healthy. He made back-to-back Pro Bowl appearances in 2023 and 2024, even notching Second-Team All-Pro honors in the former campaign after racking up 36 tackles, four interceptions and 10 passes defended.

However, staying on the field has always been difficult for the former second-round pick.

Johnson has played just one full season throughout his six-year NFL career, which came in 2024. Otherwise, he has averaged just 12.8 games per year, which simply isn’t going to work for the money he is making.

The University of Utah product appeared in just seven contests this season due to a groin injury, and he managed just a 58.2 coverage grade at Pro Football Focus during his actual playing time.

But given that Johnson is still young, there is a chance he goes on to have a huge year next season, and if that ends up being with the Lions, it would hurt that much more for the Bears.

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After the Chicago Bears took care of business by defeating the Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card round (31-27), they will turn their focus to the Los Angeles Rams to try to advance to their first Conference Championship game since 2010.

More News: Draymond Green Doesn’t Hold Back About Bears QB Caleb Williams

Facing the likely MVP in quarterback Matthew Stafford and two great wide receivers, Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, who Bears’ defensive coordinator Dennis Allen said, “It’s going to take an exceptional effort on our part to give ourselves a chance,” when talking to the Chicago Sun-Times about game planning for the two wideouts.

“You come away from there thoroughly impressed,” Allen said of Nacua. “He runs as fast as he needs to to get the job done. He’s big, he’s physical. He catches everything that’s remotely close to him and he’s tremendous with the run after the catch. I just think he does everything that you want a receiver to be able to do.”

The Chicago Bears and Dennis Allen will have their work cut out for them in containing Puka Nacua and Davante Adams

Allen and the Bears will have their work cut out for them when facing the third-best offense this postseason (411.0 yards) and Stafford (304 yards), who is 57 yards behind Caleb Williams (361 yards) and has just one interception to Williams two. The Bears, sadly, have not performed well when protecting against the pass (second-worst, 322.0 yards), which will need to turn around if they’re to advance.

Nacua is coming off his second 1,000+ yard season in his career (1,715 yards), while Adams proved to be a solid second option for Stafford to turn to (789 yards). Forcing the Rams to run the ball, which has proven to be their weakness so far (fifth, 116.0 yards), should be Allen’s game plan to shut down the Rams’ offense.

The Bears and the Rams will meet on Sunday, Jan. 18, and play at 6:30 Eastern on NBC Peacock.

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The Chicago Bears are gearing up for their NFC Divisional Round matchup at home against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday night, but it’s never too early to look at the 2026 NFL Draft. While the team still has things they want to accomplish this postseason, there are needs that they are going to need to improve upon. Let’s take a look at what position one publication’s recent mock draft has them taking and which player they draft.

The Chicago Bears improve on the defensive line in PFF’s mock draft

Pro Football Focus’s College Football Analyst Max Chadwick wrote a one-round 2026 NFL Mock Draft. In that, he had the Bears with the 25th pick and selecting defensive lineman Kayden McDonald from the Ohio State Buckeyes. Below is the snippet he wrote for this selection:

“Every Bears defensive tackle has a 60.0 PFF grade or worse this year. McDonald leads all interior defenders with a 91.2 PFF run-defense grade, while his 86.5 overall PFF grade leads all Power Four ones.”

It seems that every mock draft has Chicago selecting a defensive lineman, as it appears to be the team’s biggest need this offseason. Daniel Hardy, Andrew Billings, and Dominique Robinson are all free agents following this year and the Bears need to figure out how to create pressure. With their offensive weapons from last year’s draft making an immediate impact, getting a player who can win battles in the trenches against some difficult interior offensive linemen will be critical.

McDonald spent three seasons with the Buckeyes and has tallied 85 total tackles (38 solo, 47 assisted) with three pass deflections, three sacks, and a pair of forced fumbles. However, it was only this season that he was a starter and saw significant time on the field. He certainly has shown the talent ,and at 6-foot-3, 326 pounds, he has the body to succeed on Sundays in the Windy City.

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The Chicago Bears are preparing to face the Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card Round of the playoffs this Saturday, and while a playoff run is definitely the top priority for the Bears, they are almost certainly monitoring potential offseason moves, as well.

Chicago definitely has some holes to address this coming spring, and Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox feels the Bears could pilfer an NFC North rival to fill one of them.

In a recent piece where Knox listed the top 50 free agents slated to be available in March, he ranked Packers offensive tackle Rasheed Walker sixth and then tabbed Chicago as a potential destination for the 25-year-old.

“This past season, Walker was responsible for five sacks allowed, according to Pro Football Focus. That’s a far cry from the 12 sacks [Dan] Moore allowed in 2024 before getting his payday from the Tennessee Titans,” Knox wrote. “Set to turn 26 in February, Walker should be the top target of any team seeking a long-term left tackle in free agency.”

Knox is projecting Walker to land a four-year, $85 million contract.

The question is, do the Bears actually need Walker?

Chicago Bears may already have their franchise left tackle

Last April, Chicago selected Ozzy Trapilo in the second round of the NFL Draft with the intention of him possibly replacing Braxton Jones down the line.

Midway through the 2025 campaign, Trapilo did just that, supplanting Jones as the Bears’ starting left tackle. While he wasn’t exactly dominant, he was good enough to display that he could be Chicago’s left tackle of the future, managing a 70.0 overall grade at Pro Football Focus.

The Bears’ offensive line has been terrific as a whole this season, so with Chicago not having the most enviable salary cap situation heading into the offseason, it may not want to splurge so heavily on a tackle like Walker, who isn’t even a Pro Bowler.

Walker joined the Packers as a seventh-round pick back in 2022 and has certainly been solid, but how about this for a kicker: he registered a 64.6 overall grade at PFF in 2025, which was considerably worse than Jones. He also tallied a 55.4 run-blocking grade, which ranked 71st out of 89 qualifying offensive tackles.

Perhaps spending $85 million on Walker would not be the wisest move for the Bears.

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The Chicago Bears are currently preparing for their Wild Card Round playoff matchup against the Green Bay Packers, so that is at the forefront of their minds. But we would be kidding ourselves to think that they are not at least monitoring potential offseason scenarios.

One potential target for the Bears after the campaign concludes could be Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby, who appears to be at odds with the Raiders after the team sat him the final two games due to a knee issue.

But while Crosby may be disenchanted with Las Vegas, that doesn’t necessarily mean that the Raiders are open to moving him … or does it?

Las Vegas general manager John Spytek spoke to reporters on Monday and was asked about whether or not Crosby was untradeable, and he replied by saying that the five-time Pro Bowler “didn’t love the idea” of not playing the last two weeks and finished things off with a cryptic response.

“I love Maxx. He embodies what a Raider is,” Spytek said. “I’ve been pretty up front with that from the day I sat up here a year ago and I continue to believe that.”

In other words, Crosby is not untouchable.

Could the Chicago Bears swing a trade for Maxx Crosby?

The Bears could definitely stand to add another pass rusher. Montez Sweat led the team with 10 sacks this season, but otherwise, Chicago struggled to find consistent production from its pass rush. Austin Booker certainly showed positive signs, but he only played for half the year.

If the Raiders do ultimately place Crosby on the trade block, you can bet that the Bears will definitely be one of the first teams on the phone.

The question is, would Chicago be willing to surrender what it would take to bring the 28-year-old to the Windy City?

Las Vegas would ask for at least one first-round pick in return for Crosby and potentially more considering that the former fourth-round pick is under contract through 2029. The Dallas Cowboys landed a pair of first-rounders for Micah Parsons, so the Raiders may seek a similar price.

The Bears also have a rather delicate cap situation right now, so they may hesitate to acquire a player making $35.5 million in average annual value.

That being said, with Chicago moving up the ranks of contenders in the NFL, Crosby may be jus the better the Bears need to put themselves over the top.

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The Chicago Bears‘ defense has been a source of contention all season long, and one of the most prominent issues with the unit has been its pass rush.

The Bears have amassed a grand total of just 32 sacks on the year, and while that number likely would have been better had Austin Booker not been sidelined for the first half, it’s obvious that Chicago needs reinforcements, especially after Dayo Odeyingbo’s Achilles injury.

The problem is that the Bears don’t have much cap room heading into the offseason, so they likely won’t be able to rectify this issue in free agency. Chicago will have to turn to the NFL Draft, but luckily, this upcoming class is deep at edge rusher.

Bleacher Report published a piece detailing every NFL team’s biggest draft needs, and for the Bears, edge rusher was not surprisingly near the top of the list. As for B/R’s suggestion for Chicago? Michigan Wolverines star Derrick Moore.

Derrick Moore would be a great pickup for the Chicago Bears

Moore is projected to be a Day 2 pick in this year’s NFL Draft and just completed a 2025 campaign in which he racked up 30 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 10 sacks and a couple of forced fumbles.

The 23-year-old arrived at Michigan in 2022 and won a national championship as soon as his sophomore season, finishing with 34 tackles, six tackles for loss, five sacks and a defensive touchdown throughout the run.

Overall, Moore has accumulated 21 sacks during his collegiate tenure, utilizing his tremendous explosiveness to beat tackles off the edge. There is no question that Moore possesses the all-around repertoire to develop into a strong pass rusher on the professional level, so the Bears should seriously consider him this April.

Montez Sweat leads Chicago with 9.5 sacks this season. The Bears were hoping that Odeyingbo would help solve their pass-rushing issues, but the $48 million free-agent signing managed just one sack in eight games before going down for the year.

Chicago could expect a breakout campaign from Booker in 2026, but it would definitely benefit the Bears to add another pass rusher to provide some insurance, especially considering that Sweat, while good, has not been as dominant as Chicago hoped since it acquired him in a midseason trade with the Washington Commanders back in 2023.

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It’s clear that the Chicago Bears’ biggest need going into the 2026 season is an elite pass rusher. Speculation has ran rampant that the team should pursue two time all pro Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders.

More news: Chicago Bears expect wide receiver to be good for regular season finale

It now looks like that the Raiders might be willing to trade the five time pro bowl star.

According to Dianna Russini of the Athletic, league sources around the NFL now believe that the Raiders would be open to trading Crosby during the 2026 offseason.

For the first time, league sources believe the Raiders would be open to moving Maxx Crosby this offseason.

The relationship between the two sides remains strained after the five-time Pro Bowler was shut down for the season: https://t.co/umvZZLtpZF pic.twitter.com/q9COsQwW22

— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) January 3, 2026

The Raiders shut Crosby down for the final two games of the 2025 season, despite him wanting to play. This has led to a strained relationship between the all-pro defensive end and a rebuilding Raiders team.

It was reported last week that Crosby was frustrated over being shut down and he left the team facility after being told he would be put on injured reserve. He then posted a video on his instagram page playing basketball, despite reports of him “needing surgery”. This was potentially posted a shot at Raiders management.

With the star defensive end having a chance at being traded, it’s a no brainer that the Bears should swing for the fences.

The Chicago Bears now have a potential chance to turn the team into an instant Super Bowl contender

More news: Chicago Bears injury report for Week 18 showdown with Detroit Lions

If Ryan Poles wants to give the Bears an elite pass rush, he must swing for the fences and attempt to trade for Crosby.

The Bears’ lack of pressures and sacks has became the biggest weakness on the team. The struggles on defensive line is what effectively costed them the win over the San Fransisco 49ers in week 17’s shootout loss.

Bringing in a mega star like Crosby would instantly boost Montez Sweat and Austin Booker, making it easier for them to get to the quarterback as well.

Despite it being a hefty asking price, the Bears have a real possibility to go for Crosby. The likely price would cost multiple first and second round picks, and possibly a player as well.

However, bringing in an elite player like Crosby would turn the Bears into an instant Super Bowl contender for 2026 and beyond.

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The Chicago Bears have completely done a 180 this season compared to previous years, thanks to savvy front office decisions. There are a lot of people who are involved in getting a decision to be made before it lands on general manager Ryan Poles’ desk, and one of the key contributors could be gone this offseason. Let’s take a closer look at who it is and which team could poach him for a bigger role.

The Chicago Bears assistant general manager could become the Atlanta Falcons general manager

While discussing what he has been hearing regarding the NFL heading into Week 18, NFL insider Albert Breer discussed how the Bears could be seeing the Falcons take one of their top front office personnel this offseason.

“But the winning streak will likely help coach Raheem Morris, in his second year, more than GM Terry Fontenot, who’s in his fifth year (Atlanta last made the playoffs in 2018). If there’s a GM change, Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham would be a name to watch, given the close relationship between [Matt] Ryan and Chicago GM Ryan Poles, who was a lineman for the quarterback at Boston College 20 years ago.”

Cunningham has been with the Bears since 2022 as the team’s assistant general manager, but has been climbing up the NFL front office ranks since his playing days in 2008. He is one of seven people that Chicago has on the team’s directory under player personnel, so this would obviously be a massive change in the front office if this were to happen. However, this is also not set in stone as things can change and even Fontenot could keep his job. Cunningham has had multiple interviews for general manager positions in the last few offseasons, but has yet to get that role.

It would be intriguing to see Cunningham in a general manager position and what that means going forward. In terms of Chicago, they would need to figure out a new assistant general manager, but it would make any potential trades between the Falcons and the Bears easier with the relationship being there.

The post Chicago Bears front office member could be named general manager of opposing team this offseason, per NFL insider appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Last year, it was painfully obvious that the Chicago Bears needed offensive line help, as quarterback Caleb Williams was sacked 68 times. In order to get the offense moving and to preserve Williams’ career, changes needed to be made.

The Bears proceeded to overhaul their offensive line during the offseason and now have four new starters in the trenches, but there is one holdover who continues to do a tremendous job: right tackle Darnell Wright.

Wright owns an 82.3 overall grade at Pro Football Focus in 2025, which ranks 10th among all offensive tackles. He has been particularly staunch against the run, coming in with an 85.7 grade (that ranks sixth among all tackles).

The former first-round pick becomes eligible for a contract extension after the season, and Jacob Infante of Windy City Gridiron is expecting something to get done.

Chicago Bears predicted to sign Darnell Wright to a contract extension

In his mock offseason, Infante has the Bears signing Wright to a three-year, $66.5 million contract extension, a deal that would keep him in Chicago through 2029.

“First and foremost, I wanted to get ahead of Darnell Wright’s impending free agency in 2027 and sign him to a contract extension,” Infante wrote. “They will presumably pick up his fifth-year option, but considering he’s arguably their most valuable long-term asset along the offensive line, it’s smart to extend him before he gets even more expensive.”

Great offensive linemen are hard to come by in this league, and Wright appears to be on the path to stardom.

Given that the Bears appear to have their franchise quarterback in Williams, it’s definitely wise to establish as much talent around him as possible for the long haul, and that especially includes providing him with superb protection up front.

You can already see what the improvements in the trenches have done for Williams this season, as the second-year quarterback has broken out during the second half of 2025.

Locking up Wright now is not only smart financially, but it would ensure that Chicago has one side of the offensive line fortified for years to come.

The post Bears predicted to make critical $67M move to help Caleb Williams appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is in the middle of a breakout season, particularly over the last several weeks. Over the last three games, Williams has thrown six touchdowns and no interceptions, and over his last nine outings, he has tossed 16 touchdowns and just two picks in total.

Something has clicked for Williams, and that’s even without top wide receiver Rome Odunze in recent weeks.

Part of that is because struggling receiver D.J. Moore has finally woken up, having logged three touchdown catches in the past three contests. Five of his six scores this season have come over the last six games, but it still hasn’t been a great campaign for the 28-year-old.

Moore’s issues have led to speculation that the Bears could trade him this coming offseason, which is a depressing thought given how dominant he was during his debut campaign in Chicago back in 2023.

In fact, Jacob Infante of Windy City Gridiron is predicting that Chicago will send Moore to the Tennessee Titans.

Chicago Bears send D.J. Moore to Tennessee Titans in mock trade

Infante has the Bears trading Moore to the Titans in exchange for a conditional fourth-round draft pick that would become a third-rounder if Moore hits 1,000 yards in 2026.

While Chicago does have Odunze and Luther Burden III at the position, moving Moore a year-and-a-half after signing him to a four-year, $110 million contract extension would be a gut punch.

The Bears initially acquired Moore in the blockbuster deal that sent the No. 1 overall pick to the Carolina Panthers in March 2023. Ironically enough, Chicago also ended up reaping a No. 1 overall selection in that deal, as the Panthers’ sent their 2024 first-rounder to the Bears. That pick ended up yielding Williams.

Moore hauled in 96 receptions for 1,364 yards and eight touchdowns during his first season in Chi-Town, somehow missing out on the Pro Bowl. His production then took a major hit in 2024, as he caught 98 passes for 966 yards and six scores.

Fast forward to 2025, and the University of Maryland product has snared just 49 balls for 671 yards while reaching the end zone six times in what has been the worst season of his NFL tenure.

It seems rather clear that Williams and Moore have not formed a great rapport, which could very well lead to Moore’s exit this spring.

The post Bears connected to depressing WR trade amid Caleb Williams breakout appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are looking like a force to be reckoned with heading into the playoffs, but there have continued to be discussions surrounding veteran wide receiver DJ Moore. Despite being a factor in the passing offense, there are people who believe Chicago could use that money on the cap more effectively. Let’s take a look at what one NFL reporter mentioned in regards to this and what it would even look like for the Bears to make this move.

Albert Breer discusses the potential of DJ Moore being traded this offseason

While doing a mailbag for Sports Illustrated, Senior NFL Reporter Albert Breer was asked about the possibility of Chicago trading away Moore this offseason. Below is how Breer answered:

“Moore is due $24.5 million in cash for next year. He turns 29 in April. In today’s market, that’s not bad for a complementary receiver who, to be fair, has had a down year statistically with 49 catches for 671 yards and six touchdowns. To me, the comfort level of a young quarterback is paramount, and Moore’s certainly a factor in that. I think to move off Moore, you’d have to have a better option in front of you.”

Moore is under contract through the 2030 season, with a potential out in 2028, so he is a valuable player under contract. He was part of the trade that saw the Bears land the 2024 first-overall pick with the Carolina Panthers. While having aveteran wide receiver is critical for the growth of Williams, there is a way to get that in free agency or another trade. Moore has not cracked 100+ yards in a game since 2024, so there could be a chance Moore wants to make a change as well.

With the emergence of players like Luther Burden III and tight end Colston Loveland developing as premier pass-catchers in their rookie season, Chicago could use the salary cap space as a major indication for what they can do to improve the roster this offseason. Currently, they are barely over the cap, but general manager Ryan Poles could easily create cap space. Moore is currently a $28.5 million cap hit for next season, so this would be a massive cap relief as well. It will be intriguing to see if the Bears want to make this impactful move this offseason or see if Moore can improve statistically heading into the 2026 season.

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A couple of years ago, Jaquan Brisker appeared to be a rising star for the Chicago Bears. He was a tackling machine, decent in coverage and was always up for a good quote. But now, with Brisker in the final year of his rookie deal with the Bears, things have drastically changed.

Brisker is still strong against the run and he remains very vocal with the media (in the best way possible). However, his struggles in coverage are becoming impossible to ignore.

ESPN’s Aaron Schatz highlighted this in a recent piece in which he broke down each contending team’s biggest weakness heading into the playoffs.

“The Chicago defense has not been as strong as the Denver defense overall, but the Bears have the same weakness: defending against opposing slot receivers,” Schatz wrote. “… However, according to my coverage DVOA metric, the issue is not the main slot defender, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, who joined the team in Week 9. The problem is when opponents can get their slot receivers onto other defenders — primarily cornerback Nick McCloud, safety Jaquan Brisker and linebacker Tremaine Edmunds.”

The numbers support this, too, as Brisker owns a paltry 46.4 coverage grade this season, by far the worst mark of his four-year NFL career.

The Chicago Bears will almost certainly part ways with Jaquan Brisker

The Bears don’t have much projected cap space as it is heading into the offseason, so they need to be careful with how they spend their money.

Taking that into consideration, it’s looking more and more like Brisker will sign elsewhere in free agency this spring, as Chicago has to do something about a defense that ranks 28th in the league.

Not only that, but Brisker has a concussion history, making him a rather risky bet on a lucrative multi-year deal regardless of his coverage issues. But when you combine all of the facts, you’ll understand why we may be seeing the former second-round pick play out his final days in the Windy City.

It’s a shame, too, considering Brisker burst on to the scene with 105 tackles, four sacks and an interception during his rookie campaign in 2022. He wasn’t terrible in coverage then, either. But things have taken a turn for the worse for the 26-year-old.

Look for the Bears to attack the safety position in the NFL Draft, especially with Kevin Byard being 32 years old and headed toward free agency, as well.

The post Bears’ fading star is sadly playing his way out of Chicago appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Could the Chicago Bears actually swing a trade for Las Vegas Raiders superstar Maxx Crosby this offseason? Everyone knows the Bears need another pass rusher, and Crosby could ultimately be the best one available in the coming months.

Of course, should the Raiders place Crosby on the trade block, there would be no shortage of suitors for the five-time Pro Bowler, who isn’t exactly at peace with Las Vegas after the team decided to shut him down for the final two games of the season.

One of the top potential landing spots for Crosby is the San Francisco 49ers, a typically aggressive franchise that will probably be pursuing another pass rusher this spring. However, it might not be Crosby, as Tim Kawakami of The San Francisco Standard has revealed that the 49ers might not be too keen on swinging big on the edge rusher.

“But when I’ve checked with 49ers people lately, they’ve noted that they’ve won while getting younger and cheaper over the last year and they’d like to stay with that,” Kawakami wrote. “Also, 49ers management didn’t love the result when they went all-in and over budget a few years ago for Javon Hargrave, and there is definite reluctance to do something so similar now.”

This could open the door for the Bears to swoop in.

The Chicago Bears should jump on Maxx Crosby

If the 49ers are really out of the running for Crosby already, Chicago should waste no time in moving in for a strike. That’s if Crosby becomes available, of course.

The Bears have been searching for a top-flight pass rusher ever since trading Khalil Mack to the Los Angeles Chargers in 2022. They did acquire Montez Sweat midway through the 2023 campaign, but outside of Sweat’s contributions, sacks have been hard to come by in the Windy City. At least for the Bears.

Crosby has logged four double-digit sack seasons since entering the NFL in 2019 and racked up 73 tackles, 10 sacks, an interception, six passes defended an a pair of forced fumbles in 15 games this year. He topped out at 14.5 sacks in 2023.

Putting Crosby alongside of Sweat and Austin Booker would suddenly give Chicago one of the league’s best pass rushes, and even though it would cost the Bears dearly in terms of draft capital, it’s clear that the rebuild is over in Chi-Town.

Crosby is still just 28 years old and is under contract through 2029. The Bears could add him now and contend for Super Bowls for years to come with the Eastern Michigan product in the trenches.

The post Bears fans should be buzzing over latest Maxx Crosby trade update appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears attempted to shore up their pass rush last offseason by signing former Indianapolis Colts edge rusher Dayo Odeyingbo to a three-year, $48 million contract in free agency.

At the time, it looked like a good move. Odeyingbo was just two seasons removed from racking up eight sacks, and even after logging just three sacks in 2024, he still managed to post 17 quarterback hits, indicating that he was still wreaking havoc in opponents’ backfields.

Well, Odeyingbo managed just one sack and four quarterback hits in eight games during his debut campaign with the Bears before tearing his Achilles, and now, the career of the 26-year-old could be in jeopardy. Odeyingbo does not have an out in his contract until after next season, but Chicago should already start searching for his replacement.

Jacob Infante of Windy City Gridiron combed through some potential options for the Bears in free agency this coming offseason, and one name in particular stood out: Odafe Oweh.

Could the Chicago Bears sign Odafe Oweh to bolster their defense?

Oweh is slated to hit free agency after 2025 and has registered 34 tackles, seven sacks and 17 quarterback hits in 16 games between the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers this season (he was traded from the Ravens to the Chargers earlier in the year).

The former first-round pick broke out with 39 tackles, 10 sacks and 23 quarterback hits last year and has long been an analytical darling, owning a 77.5 pass-rushing grade at Pro Football Focus this season. Even back in 2023 when Oweh had totaled just five sacks, his PFF pass-rushing grade was still at 78.5.

Now, it should be noted that the Bears aren’t projected to have a ton of cap room this offseason, so signing Oweh — who should be one of the top edge rushers available — could prove difficult. If we are being perfectly honest, Chicago seems more likely to hit the NFL Draft for an Odeyingbo replacement rather than splurging in free agency.

But if the Bears are able to clear some more money with roster cuts (which is bound to happen), perhaps they can open up enough space to pursue Oweh.

The post Chicago Bears connected to PFF darling to replace $48 million bust appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are gearing up for a potential playoff run, and that is thanks much in part to the efforts of running back D’Andre Swift, who has enjoyed a brilliant campaign this season.

Now in his second year with the Bears after signing a three-year, $24 million contract in March 2024, Swift has racked up 1,047 yards and nine touchdowns on 4.9 yards per carry while also catching 33 passes for 291 yards and a score.

Heading into 2025, Swift was viewed as a potential trade candidate because of his disappointing debut showing in Chicago last season, but there is no question that the 27-year-old has righted the ship over the last several months.

But could the Bears still be searching for a replacement?

Ian Cummings of Pro Football Network thinks so, predicting Chicago to select Wake Forest halfback Demond Claiborne in the fourth round of the NFL Draft.

Would the Chicago Bears look to replace D’Andre Swift this offseason?

That the Bears are being linked to Claiborne may seem a bit odd given the fact that Swift is still under contract for one more year, and Chicago also has impressive rookie running back Kyle Monangai in the fold, as well.

However, Swift is hitting free agency after next season, so perhaps the Bears will look to get ahead of his potential departure by adding another halfback now?

Claiborne would certainly comprise an intriguing addition.

The 22-year-old rushed for 907 yards and 10 touchdowns while averaging 5.1 yards per attempt in 2025, concluding what has been a rather impressive four-year run with the Demon Deacons.

Claiborne arrived at Wake Forest in 2022 and began receiving significant playing time the next season, registering 586 yards and three scores on the ground in 2023. Then, in 2024, the speedster broke out with 1,049 yards and 11 touchdowns on 4.6 yards per attempt. He also hauled in 23 receptions for 254 yards and a pair of scores.

Chicago will definitely want to ensure it always has a nice crop of weapons for Caleb Williams, so maybe it really would make sense to bring in another running back this offseason.

The post Chicago Bears oddly linked to explosive D’Andre Swift replacement appeared first on ChiCitySports.

While the Chicago Bears have already clinched the NFC North and are 11-5 heading into their regular-season finale against the Detroit Lions, one thing is for sure: their defense has remained a significant problem throughout the year.

The Bears rank 28th in the NFL in defense and have managed just 32 sacks on the campaign, which places them toward the bottom of the league.

Montez Sweat leads Chicago with 9.5 sacks and Gervon Dexter is at No. 2 with five, but the Bears’ pass-rushing depth is a major question mark (although Austin Booker has had a great second half since returning from injury).

As a result, Chicago may target an edge rusher in the NFL Draft this spring, and Matt Rooney of Bleacher Nation has already tabbed Illinois Fighting Illini star Gabe Jacas as a potential fit for the Bears.

Gabe Jacas is a major sleeper for the Chicago Bears

We haven’t really heard Jacas’ name mentioned a whole lot, which is why Rooney feels that the pick may be a reach at No. 28. But he loves Jacas’ potential.

“As of now, he’s still a bit of a first-round reach, but I’ve been saying the past few weeks, and I mean it, that I think he’s going to rise up draft boards due to his measurables and athleticism,” Rooney wrote. “… The Bears desperately need help getting to the quarterback, and I think this is a fit, especially with Defensive Coordinator Dennis Allen, who likes bigger-framed players at EDGE.”

Jacas racked up 43 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks and three force fumbles this year and has accumulated 183 tackles, 35.5 tackles for loss and 27 sacks since arriving at Illinois in 2022. He made an impact for the Fighting Illini right off the bat, logging four sacks during his freshman campaign.

The 6-foot-3, 275-pound defender has freakish strength and terrific athleticism, possessing the ability to both play upright and down on the line. Adding Jacas to a pass-rushing group that already includes Sweat, Booker and Dexter could suddenly turn a weakness into a strength for the Bears, so it would not be surprising if they considered him in the first round.

Of course, given the amount of talent at edge rusher in this year’s draft class, Jacas would probably have to put forth a very strong effort at the Scouting Combine to establish himself as a Day 1 pick. There is no denying his production, though.

The post Bears linked to sleeper move for 27-sack defender that would raise eyebrows appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are gearing up for the postseason and look like a strong team. However, their defense could use some improvement as they rank 22nd in the league with 24.8 points per game. With the defense unable to improve with trades and looking as healthy as ever, there is a signing that they can do to make the team even better heading into the NFL Playoffs. Let’s take a closer look at what the front office can do to make the team even better heading into Week 18 and the postseason.

The Chicago Bears should claim Trevon Diggs before the postseason begins

Right now, the Bears have some quality cornerbacks, but could always use help in the secondary. With the ability to be in rotation with names like Jaylon Johnson and Nashon Wright, this could be a major addition to make for the team. In addition, this would not be a massive hit on the salary cap for Chicago. With the way that his contract was set up with Dallas, he is only guaranteed $472,000 in base salary for Week 18 and an additional $58,823 if he were on the active roster. Following Week 18, Diggs does not have any guaranteed money remaining in his contract.

That could be a significant factor, as there is a very low risk for Chicago to claim him. This would not affect much of the team’s salary cap. According to Over The Cap, the Bears currently have about $5.2 million remaining, which would be more than enough room for this signing. Diggs is a two-time Pro Bowler and a one-time All-Pro who is now healthy and ready to silence the critics. This signing would help the Bears’ defense, which has been struggling this season, so this makes all the sense in the world.

The post The Chicago Bears should claim the newest free agent ahead of the playoffs appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears enter Week 16 having recorded 29 sacks, ranking 20th in the league.

More News: Bears just won trade with the Chiefs

While the Bears’ opportunistic defense has created the most turnovers, averaging 2.1 per game, the team could look to add a veteran pass-rusher for a playoff push.

Chicago has an opportunity to earn the NFC’s No. 1 seed, but they’ll face stiff competition in its next three games against the Green Bay Packers, San Francisco 49ers, and Detroit Lions.

Montez Sweat leads the Bears in sacks with 8.5 sacks. Defensive tackle Gervon Dexter has five sacks. Second-year defensive end Austin Booker has three sacks. Those are the only defensive linemen with multiple sacks before Week 16.

The Bears have an opportunity to land a veteran pass-rusher before the end of the regular season.

Will the Chicago Bears go for Matt Judon?

More News: Bears HC sends message to offense after win over Browns

Per Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network, the Dolphins are releasing Matt Judon.

“The Dolphins are releasing veteran pass rusher Matt Judon, sources tell The Insiders,” Garafolo posted on X. “Judon appeared in 13 games this season for Miami and could be an option for playoff teams looking for a veteran presence.”

The #Dolphins are releasing veteran pass rusher Matt Judon, sources tell The Insiders. Judon appeared in 13 games this season for Miami and could be an option for playoff teams looking for a veteran presence. pic.twitter.com/Fq2xAEioLo

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) December 17, 2025

The four-time Pro Bowl athlete wasted his time in South Florida this season. He recorded just 19 total tackles through 13 games. This is the only season the 2016 fifth-round pick has not recorded multiple sacks.

Judon recorded 5.5 sacks in 2024 for the Atlanta Falcons. He earned a career-high 15.5 sacks with the New England Patriots in 2022.

Bears general manager Ryan Poles tried to trade for Judon in 2024, but decided not to after being unable to ink a deal with Judon before making a trade.

“Our language is basically saying if the contract is not signed then he reverts back to New England,” Poles said, via the NFL. “I don’t want to get the club in a position where we have a player that’s here, we’ve given up a draft pick, and we haven’t had a resolution on a contract.”

It’ll be interesting to see if Poles tries to add Judon before playing the Green Bay Packers on Saturday, a team that needs a pass-rusher after losing Micah Parsons to a torn ACL.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears made it a point to address their offensive line last offseason after watching quarterback Caleb Williams get sacked 68 times in 2024.

The Bears added veterans Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson and Drew Dalman while also selecting Ozzy Trapilo in the 2025 NFL Draft, and while the unit has certainly been better as a whole this season, left tackle in particular — where Trapilo is currently stationed — has been a bit of a question mark (although Trapilo has shown flashes).

For that reason, Ryan Fowler of Bear Goggles On is projecting the Bears to nab Utah Utes offensive tackle Caleb Lomo in the first round of the draft this coming April.

“Lomu is one of the premier tackle prospects in the class, bringing size, athleticism, and a physical demeanor that fits what the Bears have been building up front, and with established veterans like Joe Thuney, Drew Dalman, and Jonah Jackson inside, plus Darnell Wright entrenched at right tackle, adding Lomu at left tackle could elevate this unit into one of the best offensive lines in football,” Fowler wrote.

Lomo is a menacing physical presence at 6-foot-6, 305 pounds and also possesses tremendous athleticism, so he would definitely comprise an intriguing pick for a Bears squad that needs to provide Williams with as much help as possible.

Should the Chicago Bears take an offensive lineman in the first round?

Of course, the question is whether or not the Bears should actually take an offensive lineman in Round 1 when they have other more glaring issues to address.

For example, Chicago could use another pass rusher, as the team ranks in the bottom half of the league with just 29 sacks in 2025.

Perhaps Austin Booker — who has logged three sacks in seven games this year — can finally break out in his third season next fall, but it would be nice for the Bears to have some more insurance behind Montez Sweat.

Chicago could afford to add some help in the secondary, as well.

All of that being said, having a franchise left tackle is paramount, and if the Bears have the opportunity to achieve that this spring, they should probably follow that path, especially with Williams still on his rookie contract.

The question is whether or not Chicago would be giving up on Trapilo too soon.

The post Bears already predicted to dump intriguing rookie for 6-foot-6 behemoth appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are 9-4 and are smack dab in the middle of a playoff run, so the last thing they are worried about at the current point in time is deciding their potential trade partners during the offseason. But it’s never too early to discuss it.

Right now, the Bears have one very notable trade candidate on their roster: wide receiver D.J. Moore.

Moore logged just one catch for minus-4 yards in Chicago’s Week 14 loss to the Green Bay Packers in his latest rough performance of the season. He has managed a grand total of 39 receptions for 438 yards and three touchdowns on the year, which is unacceptable production for a player of his caliber.

It seems fairly obvious that the 28-year-old doesn’t quite mesh with Caleb Williams. The season before Williams arrived joined the Bears, Moore snared 96 balls for 1,364 yards and eight scores. That also happened to be Moore’s debut campaign in the Windy City after coming over in a blockbuster trade with the Carolina Panthers the year prior.

But during Williams’ first season with the Bears in 2024, Moore’s production plummeted. He still caught 98 passes, but only for 966 yards and six touchdowns.

Moore signed a four-year, $110 million extension with Chicago in July 2024, but it may be time for a change.

The Chicago Bears may need to trade D.J. Moore

Moore is under contract with the Bears through 2029, but based on his declining production, it seems very hard to believe that he will finish out his deal with the team.

Speculation is swirling that Chicago could move Moore during the offseason, and while his contract pays him an average annual salary of $27.5 million, there should definitely plenty of interested clubs, and one potential destination really stands out: the Buffalo Bills.

The Bills don’t have a No. 1 receiver and haven’t had one ever since jettisoning Stefon Diggs. This has made life difficult for Josh Allen, and while Moore may not be an upper echelon ace, he is still far better than what Buffalo currently has on its roster.

The Bills have been very up and down in 2025 thanks much in part to their lack of options in the aerial attack, so Moore would make perfect sense for them. It would not be the least bit surprising to see the Bears discuss a Moore trade with Buffalo after the season.

Now, it should be noted that Chicago may not stand to reap a massive return for Moore because of his contract and the fact that his efficiency has fallen off a cliff. But a squad like the Bills could view Moore as a player who simply needs a change of scenery.

With the Bears having Rome Odunze and a potential emerging star in Luther Burden III at the position, expect them to entertain a Moore trade in the spring.

The post Caleb Williams’ struggles with one Bears star signal obvious trade is coming appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears hold sole possession of the top spot in the NFC North standings (9-3) and are hoping to win the division for the first time since 2018.

More News: Ben Johnson drops telling quote regarding Chicago Bears remaining schedule

When asked about how he feels about being in first place for the first time in nearly a decade, Johnson said, “It doesn’t mean anything.”

“It doesn’t mean anything,” Johnson said, via the team’s official transcript. “There are five games left, so we’ve got a long ways to go, and we have not been guaranteed a spot in the tournament yet. We have to earn that. And the only way you can earn that right is by finding a way to win the next game. So that’s where our sole focus is.”

Winners of five straight, the Bears play their divisional opponent, the Green Bay Packers (8-3-1), in Week 14, which Johnson described as “a big week.”

“It’s a big week. We know how important this rivalry is,” Johnson said to Kevin Patra of NFL.com. “…Two of the most winning franchises in the NFL, and I think that continues to be the case. So, it’s a big one.”

The Chicago Bears have a chance to stun the Packers and continue their winning streak

The Bears have one of the best offenses in the NFL (sixth, 374.3 yards per game) and have had a dominant running game this season between their two backs, D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai. The Bears rank second in rushing (153.8 yards per game) behind the Buffalo Bills (155.7).

Facing the eighth-ranked rushing defense in the Packers (98.3 yards), the Bears will likely game plan to utilize Swift and Monangai once again, as they combined for 255 rushing yards and two touchdowns in their Black Friday matchup against the reigning Super Bowl Champions, the Philadelphia Eagles.

With their defense allowing less than 30 points in their last four out of five games, their running game firing on all cylinders, and quarterback Caleb Williams throwing for 1,086 yards and eight touchdowns with one interception during this winning streak, the Bears have a good chance to pull out a victory over the Packers.

The post Chicago Bears HC Ben Johnson knows Week 14 is a ‘big week’ for his team appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are currently sitting as the top seed in the NFC and can continue to be a serious contender. While the NFL Trade Deadline has passed and the team has stepped up, there is still a chance to improve the 53-man roster by signing a free agent. One veteran wide receiver has been recently released and could be a good fit on a young Bears team. Let’s take a closer look at the information and discuss why it would be a savvy move for Ryan Poles to make an offer to sign another talent.

The Chicago Bears should be interested in Adam Thielen

The Minnesota Vikings made it known that they will be honoring the request of wide receiver Adam Thielen and letting him become an unrestricted free agent.

“Last week Adam’s representation approached the team and asked if we would be willing to release Adam, expressing his desire to play a bigger role in the remaining weeks of what he has indicated will be his final NFL season. Following discussions through the weekend and out of respect for Adam, we have agreed to give him the opportunity to pursue more playing time elsewhere. Adam is one of the all-time great Vikings, and we wish him and his family continued success.”

While the 35-year-old has not been too productive this season, he could be a great fit for the Chicago Bears going into the stretch run of the season. While people may be looking at his eight receptions for 69 yards this season as ineffective, this could be a nice receiver off the bench for the team. Think about the Bears’ 53-man depth chart for a second, and currently there are six wide receivers:

• Rome Odunze
• DJ Moore
• Luther Burden III
• Jahdae Walker
• Olamide Zaccheaus
• Devin Duvernay

Getting a veteran wide receiver who has six playoff games in his career allows Thielen to be an experienced player who can be placed into a leadership role with a lot of younger players littered throughout. This is also going to obviously help second-year quarterback Caleb Williams, as he can be a legitimate threat on a critical third down. This is going to be something that could intrigue the Chicago Bears if they want to take that next step as a team heading into the postseason.

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The Chicago Bears made a statement on Friday afternoon in Philadelphia, beating the Eagles 24-15 to move to 9-3 on the year and remain in first place in the NFC North. Chicago did so with their rushing attack and a great game plan defensively.

While the Bears didn’t pull away until late, it’s a huge win for the Bears. And they did so with three former Eagles who had a big impact on the game.

Running back D’Andre Swift had over 100 yards rushing, Kevin Byard had an interception to extend his lead league in that category and C.J. Gardner-Johnson played well in the nickel role. Following the game, Gardner-Johnson was shown on video saying he knew the Eagles were going to fold in this game.

“What’d I say? They’re gonna fold.” — C.J. Gardner-Johnson. pic.twitter.com/DUvgRg4fF1

— Jeff Neiburg (@Jeff_Neiburg) November 28, 2025

He then explained why in the post game.

C.J. Gardner-Johnson knew the Eagles were going to fold

Gardner-Johnson is familiar with this Eagles team, helping them win the Super Bowl last season. He also knows how tough it is to play in Philadelphia. Following the game, he told the media that he knew Philadelphia was going to fold because they were too confident.

“Because I’ve been here before,” Gardner-Johnson said when asked why he said the Eagles were going to fold. “You only wear black uniforms if you feel confident.  I told the guys this is one of those (where) we gotta come in, really put your ears back and play ball. It’s going to be a physical game, a short week. It’s who is the more physical team and we came out and showed it today.”

Gardner-Johnson used his knowledge of his former team to his advantage. And it worked for the Bears.

He even hinted that he knew how predictable the Eagles’ offense was going to be. He spoke with the Speakeasy show hosted by Emmanuel Acho and LeSean McCoy as they asked him if the Eagles offense was ‘too predictable’. Gardner-Johnson gave them a wink:

Bears DB C.J. Gardner-Johnson winks when Shady asks him if the Eagles’ offense was “too easy and too predictable.” pic.twitter.com/wwv5ajzNvV

— SPORTSRADIO 94WIP (@SportsRadioWIP) November 29, 2025

Gardner-Johnson has been a fantastic addition to the Bears’ roster not only on the field but as a teammate in that locker room. It’s been awesoe to watch him excel at a high level and make an impact on this Bears defense.

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With the Chicago Bears having a 7-3 record and sitting on top of the NFC north, the NFL will likely take advantage of their success.

More news: Ben Johnson says rising Chicago Bears wide receiver has “earned” his playing time

Considering how well the Bears are doing, it looks like the NFL will want to put them in the national spotlight more.

According to NFL Network’s Tom Pellisero, a very crucial December matchup for the Bears will be flexed.

The Chicago Bears’ week 14 matchup against the Green Bay Packers will be moved

More news: Chicago Blackhawks’ Connor Bedard has officially become a superstar

In a post on X, it has been confirmed that the huge game will be flexed. The game will now move from noon to 3:25 on Fox.

This move will give the game a more national spotlight. The late afternoon game is considered the national game of the week. That means a bigger audience will be watching.

Flex! The Week 14 Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers game will be played at 4:25 p.m. ET on Sunday, Dec. 7 on FOX, the NFL announced today. The Cincinnati Bengals-Buffalo Bills game will be played at 1 p.m. ET on FOX.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 20, 2025

With both the Bears and Packers being right in the middle of the NFC playoff race, it’s no surprise that the NFL and Fox would want to flex the oldest rivalry in football to a better time slot.

The Bears currently hold a one game lead ahead of the Packers in the NFC North. This game will be a very pivotal game as it’s likely the Bears could see the return of defensive stars Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon as well.

The Bears are about to begin their toughest stretch of the season. If the team can continue to pull off wins, it wouldn’t be surprising if at least one more game gets flexed to primetime as well.

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Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Luther Burden has the potential to be a key figure of the offense. Burden has shown flashes of potential throughout the season but has played less in favor of veteran receiver Olamide Zaccheaus.

Zaccheaus struggled in Sunday’s 24-20 victory over the Giants. Zaccheaus had multiple key drops including a wide open touchdown. While the second-round draft pick caught all three of his targets for 51 yards. His last reception was a key first down reception that led to a Caleb Williams rushing touchdown to give the Bears the late fourth quarter lead, ultimately winning the game.

Many fans and media analysts have questioned why Zaccheaus is seeing the field over Burden. Burden has proved on multiple occasions that he should be involved more in the offense.

It looks like head coach Ben Johnson is starting to see that as well.

The Chicago Bears head coach had high praise for Luther Burden

During Monday’s media session, the Bears coach was asked about his rookie wide receiver. According to Adam Jahns of CHGO, Johnson gave immense praise to Burden and seemed to hint that he will be getting more snaps in the offense.

“He is very productive when he’s about to get the ball in his hands and there’s a strong argument that we should get it to him more”

Burden’s elite route running was shown on Sunday’s game. It seems that Burden could be developing more chemistry with quarterback Caleb Williams. The second-round rookie could be a major factor into Johnson’s offense. Burden could be a difference maker in both the slot and on the outside.

Hopefully we get to see more of Burden moving forward. The wide receiver has so much potential and can be a star for the Bears.

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The Chicago Bears won their second straight victory against the New York Giants on Sunday in a come-from-behind win led by quarterback Caleb Williams.

More News: Chicago Bears: Instant takeaways from another comeback victory

Despite being down 20-10 with under four minutes remaining in the game, Williams propelled the Bears to victory with his arm and his legs, proving once again that the moment doesn’t get too big for him.

Caleb Williams has been effective when the Chicago Bears have been behind

Throwing a two-yard touchdown to wide receiver Rome Odunze to get the Bears within three (20-17) with 3:56 left on the clock, Williams would run the ball into the endzone two minutes later (1:47) to seal their victory 24-20. Williams would finish the day with 63 yards rushing on eight carries and throwing for 220 yards (20-for-36).

According to Pro Football Focus, when the Bears are trailing, Williams has been the one to lead them to a victory, throwing for 1,306 yards with 11 touchdowns and two interceptions, while having a 72.3% adjusted completion rate.

Caleb Williams when trailing this season:

72.3% adjusted completion rate
1,306 total yards
11 total TDs
2 INTs pic.twitter.com/1UfyA7xJ0f

— PFF (@PFF) November 10, 2025

The Bears are in contention for the NFC North

Thanks to Williams and their new head coach, Ben Johnson, the Bears are back to being competitive after finishing last season seven games under .500 (5-12). Tied for second with the Detroit Lions (6-3), the Bears are trying to win the NFC North for the first time since 2018. The Bears went 12-4 and lost in the Wild Card Round to the Philadelphia Eagles.

With four more matchups with their divisional opponents remaining, the Bears need to keep this consistent play going to win the division and make the playoffs for the first time since 2020.

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The Chicago Bears play the 2-7 New York Giants in Week 10, who are losers of three straight games, and are without their star rookie running back, Cam Skattebo, who injured his ankle two weeks prior in their game versus the Philadelphia Eagles.

More News: Chicago Bears to workout intriguing free-agent defensive back

The Bears, on the other hand, are coming off one of their better wins of the season, beating the Cincinnati Bengals 47-42, and completely transforming their offense. The Bears’ revamped offense under the tutelage of new head coach Ben Johnson is credited with this transformation and with helping Caleb Williams grow as their franchise quarterback.

Caleb Williams says the Chicago Bears’ offense has a “different vibe” thanks to Ben Johnson

Rated as the third-best offense in the NFL (378.4 yards) and the second-best when running the ball (144.4 yards), Williams said of the Bears’ transformation under Johnson that it was like a “different vibe” this season and they’re doing better in close games this season compared to last.

“I think it’s just a different year, different vibe,” quarterback Caleb Williams said to Courtney Cronin of ESPN. “I think we’ve done a good job in some of those games; I would say that last year we didn’t do a good job in close games, tight games. I think we’ve won those games, and now we need to get to the point where we’re hitting on all cylinders as a team, all three phases of football, to be able to go out there and put up a lot of points and keep the other side with the least amount of points possible.”

Johnson agreed with Williams’ assessment about the Bears losing in close games last season, adding that they’re looking to “change the narrative” and still need to “develop that killer instinct” to continue to get better.

“This particular team in years past would find ways to lose games, and now we’re finding ways to win games,” Johnson said. “So I think they’re looking to change that narrative. Now that we’ve done that, we’ve got to continue to develop that killer instinct. We’re going to continue to get better there. But I think it’s a really good group.

“I can’t say enough good things about our locker room. We really have zero issues with discipline or anything of that nature. These guys just want to come out and play ball and win games and be there for their teammates. Usually, you’ve got some bad apples in there, but we really don’t. We have just a really strong locker room.”

Caleb Williams is off to a better sophomore season for the Bears

After throwing for 3,541 yards and 20 touchdowns and four interceptions in 17 games in his rookie season, Williams is off to a great start in his sophomore campaign, ranking 12th in passing yards (1,916) and 18th in touchdowns (12). Williams is coming off one of his best performances of this season, throwing for three touchdowns and 280 yards (20-34), while adding 53 yards rushing on five carries against the Bengals, which should help when facing a Giants team that ranks 29th in the league in total defense (382.1 yards).

The Bears and Williams could be in store for another high-scoring game against the Giants. Along with Williams, rookie running back Kyle Monangai could be a factor in this Sunday’s matchup, coming off a career game against the Bengals, rushing for 176 yards on 26 carries. The Giants have the second-worst rushing defense (31st) in the league, and allowed 159 yards rushing to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 9.

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Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson’s creative playcalls have been a huge highlight of the 2025 season. The flea flicker touchdown to Luther Burden, the fake flea flicker run, Caleb Williams catching a touchdown pass from DJ Moore, and a screen pass thrown from backup quarterback Tyson Bagent to Caleb Williams, to name just a few.

More news: Ben Johnson continues to see growth in Chicago Bears QB Caleb Williams

It seems the Bears’ head coach may have just hinted at another insane trick play that could happen soon.

According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, we might see an offensive lineman get the football.

Did the Chicago Bears head coach just hint at a Darnell Wright trick play?!

More news: Chicago Bears star’s dad takes major shot at team, wants his son traded

During Wednesday’s press conference, Johnson was asked about his starting right tackle’s viral moment from Sunday’s win over the Bengals. Following Colston Loveland’s game-winning touchdown, Darnell Wright was shown doing a cartwheel to celebrate. The hilarious moment has gone viral all over social media.

When asked, Johnson had an interesting response. The Bears’ head coach said that “We have to continue to highlight what he can do with or without the ball.” With the ball? The right tackle did get a couple of chances to catch the football in one-on-ones during training camp. This could be a hint at another trick play Johnson has up his sleeve.

#Bears coach Ben Johnson referred to RT Darnell Wright as a 'unicorn' again when asked about his cartwheel at the end of Sunday's game.

'We have to continue to highlight what he can do with or without the ball.'

— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) November 5, 2025

Wright has had such an impressive season and has been a force on the offensive line. Him catching a pass for a touchdown would be legendary, and we need it to happen. Could this be a possibility for Sunday’s game against the Giants?

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The Chicago Bears are coming off one of their toughest wins of the season, where they won 47-42 against a Cincinnati Bengals team that saw 40-year-old veteran quarterback Joe Flacco throw for 470 yards and four touchdowns, proving to be not enough to outmatch Caleb Williams and the Bears in the end.

More News: Chicago Bears make NFL history in 47-42 win over the Bengals

Sitting at 5-3 through the first nine weeks of the season, the Bears, under their new head coach, Ben Johnson, have completely turned their offense around, going from the worst in the league last season to one of the top three in the NFL.

The Chicago Bears completely transformed their offense within a year

Going from the worst-rated offense (32nd at 283.5 yards per game) and in the bottom five (28th) for points per game (18.2), the Bears under Johnson are now a top-three offense in the league (third, 378.4 yards per game) and scoring the sixth most points per game (26.9), according to FOX Sports: NFL.

The Bears also have the second-best rushing defense in the game (144.4 yards) and are tied for eighth with the New England Patriots in third-down offense (42.9%). The one downside of their offense has been in the Red Zone, where they rank 25th (51.7%) in conversion rate.

What a turnaround it's been for the Chicago offense this season pic.twitter.com/65ZYqc1ifP

— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) November 5, 2025

The Bears will have their offense tested over the next couple of weeks

Playing the New York Giants, the Minnesota Vikings, and the Pittsburgh Steelers in the next few weeks, the Bears will have their offense tested, with the Steelers (27.0) and the Giants (21.0) ranking high in sacks. The Giants, especially having one of the top players at getting after the quarterback, in linebacker Brian Burns (first at 11.0).

Throwing for 1,916 yards (12th in the league) and 12 touchdowns (18th) and four interceptions, Williams has done better with lowering his sack total for this season, having 14 this season after being one of the more sacked quarterbacks (68) in the league last season. Continuing to block and protect Williams so he can find his open receivers and utilize his legs will further help the Bears stack up wins in the second half of this season.

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The Chicago Bears are 4-3 on the season, their first under new head coach Ben Johnson. But while they are just one win away from matching their total from the 2024 NFL season, Chicago is still in third place in the NFC North behind the 5-1-1 Green Bay Packers and 5-2 Detroit Lions.

What is more, there are many who have become frustrated with the way the Bears are playing, specifically on offense where quarterback Caleb Williams has not made the strides many hoped he would make with Johnson as his head coach.

Despite their winning record, there are some that believe that, if Chicago is to catch the Packers and Lions in the standings, there will need to make some tough decisions made regarding Williams.

The Chicago Bears are predicted to bench Caleb Williams

In his second season as the Bears starting quarterback, Williams has a 61.9% completion percentage, 1,636 passing yards, nine touchdowns, four interceptions, and a 90.2 passer rating.

But while these numbers are not what one would call terrible, they are far from the level of production that many expected from the former number one overall pick.

Because of this, renowned sports analyst Bill Simmons believes Chicago will eventually bench Williams in favor of Tyson Bagent, saying on his podcast:

“Ben Johnson will bench Caleb Williams and start Tyson Bagent. Tyson Bagent will be the starter in time for Week 13/Week 14.

“I think the Bears are pretty good, and I think Caleb is holding them back, and Ben Johnson is just gonna be like [bleep] it. And he loves Tyson Bagent. Like, loves him. They’re like a playoff team, and Caleb has not been good for them.”

Simmons goes on to say that, if Bagent was the one leading the Bears offense, he believes they would have an 11-6 season and make the NFL Playoffs.

For his career, Bagent has a 66.2% completion percentage, 897 passing yards, three touchdowns, six interceptions, and a 72.4 passer rating.

To be sure, Williams is not a perfect quarterback, but it is also true that he gives Chicago their best chance of winning on any given Sunday. It would be foolish for the Bears to bench their franchise quarterback in favor of Bagent.

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It’s no secret that the Chicago Bears could use more from their pass rush this season. With Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo combining for just four sacks on the year, the Bears could use a boost.

Austin Booker being activated off of Injured Reserve this week might potentially get them that. But they could also look to the trade market for some potential help on the defensive line.

With the NFL’s trade deadline under a week away, we could see a flurry of moves coming. There should be a few teams ready to be sellers as they have started off the season on a slow start and the Bears might be able to take advantage. One of those teams is the New York Jets, who finally got a win in Week 8, beating the Cincinnati Bengals.

And one ESPN insider believes the Bears are a good fit for a current Jets defensive player.

Jermaine Johnson tabbed as best fit for Chicago Bears

In Jeremy Fowler and Matt Bowen’s latest piece for ESPN, they ranked the top 25 players who could be traded ahead of the deadline. At No. 10 is Jets’ defensive lineman Jermaine Johnson and they list the Bears and Eagles as a fit for him:

The buzz: The Jets are not desperate to trade Johnson; good edge rushers are hard to find, and his $13.4 million salary for 2026 (a fifth-year option) is reasonable. But my sense after asking around is that New York would be more willing to part with Johnson than Will McDonald IV if it made any move at the position. Macdonald is in the third year of his rookie deal, whereas Johnson is in his fourth. And Johnson has garnered a bit of interest thus far. — Fowler

The two estimated his chance of being traded at 35 percent, which is a little low. However, if a team like the Bears needs help on the line and offers the Jets a favorable deal, why wouldn’t they take it?

Johnson suffered an Achillies injury in 2024 that caused him to miss 15 games. But in 2023, he recorded 7.5 sacks and 16 pressures. So far this season, he has one sack in five games.

The other thing to consider is if the Bears will be willing to give up draft picks for an edge rusher. They did sign Odeyingbo to a big deal this offseason already. So far, the return hasn’t been worth it for Ryan Poles and his staff.

I dont think this is the move the Bears will make and instead, will rely on what they have to generate some much-needed pressure.

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The Chicago Bears offense took a positive step in their 31-14 win over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 3. Quarterback Caleb Williams was named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his efforts against Dallas.

How much was the Bears being good and how much was Dallas being bad is unknown early in the season. Russell Wilson had a big week against the Cowboys in Week 2 but has already been benched for rookie Jaxson Dart in Week 4 after a poor performance against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday night.

Williams and the Bears offense are going to need to show consistency against the Raiders to prove they’re ready to turn a corner.

Chicago Bears have big concern ahead of Raiders game

During his news conference on Wednesday, Bears head coach Ben Johnson noted one concern the offense has in Week 4: Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby.

“Ben Johnson opens his Wednesday press conference talking about the Raiders pass rush and Maxx Crosby,” posted ESPN’s Courtney Cronin on X. “Called him a top 5 defensive player in the NFL who doesn’t get some of the recognition he deserves. ‘He wrecks drives. That’s what he does.'”

Ben Johnson opens his Wednesday press conference talking about the Raiders pass rush and Maxx Crosby. Called him a top 5 defensive player in the NFL who doesn't get some of the recognition he deserves. "He wrecks drives. That’s what he does."

— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) September 24, 2025

Through three games this season, Crosby has recorded 2 sacks and 14 total tackles this season. The Bears offensive line will need to prepare to block the four-time Pro Bowl nominee, or he could be a key reason why Williams and the offense have to look for answers like they did after Week 1 and Week 2.

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Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has become the third NFC North quarterback to be awarded for their performance in the early season. Per the NFL, Williams was named as the NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his incredible showing in the Bears’ 31-14 win over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.

Chicago Bears QB Caleb Williams earned an award for Week 3

Williams went 19-of-28 passing for 298 yards and four touchdown passes (a career high). He led the league in touchdown passes for Week 3. Williams became the first Bears quarterback to NFC Offensive Player of the Week since Justin Fields won it during the 2022 season.

He also became the eighth former USC quarterback to win the award.

NFC Players of the Week! (Week 3) @CALEBcsw | @rodgers_isaiah | @Swaggidavis | @Gatorade pic.twitter.com/yZ6rR4xVWo

— NFL (@NFL) September 24, 2025

Williams has made progress in each of his last two starts for the Bears. After a frustrating outing against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 1, Williams showed poise in the pocket, but ultimately came up short in the Bears’ 52-21 loss to the Detroit Lions. However, he took advantage of the Cowboys’ issues on defense in Week 3, helping to give first-year head coach Ben Johnson his first win in Chicago.

Williams had to watch as the Bears defense allowed J.J. McCarthy and Jared Goff to earn NFC Player of the Week awards in Week 1 and Week 2. In Week 3, Williams grabbed the award for himself, and he had a good opportunity to keep the momentum rolling into the bye when the Bears take on the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 4.

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The Chicago Bears have been dealing with a depleted secondary since the start of the 2025 season. Slot cornerback Kyler Gordon has yet to play this season due to a hamstring injury. Jaylon Johnson reinjured his groin during Week 2’s loss against the Lions and has been put on injured reserve. While Johnson has a chance to return this season, it is clear that the Bears could use additional help in the secondary.

Tyrique Stevenson struggled during the first two games of the season. However, he made a major step up in Week 3’s victory over the Cowboys. Stevenson forced a fumble by stripping the ball from Javonte Williams during the Cowboys’ opening possession. The often-critiqued cornerback played very well against Dallas, helping the Bears’ defense prevent the Cowboys from making many big plays. Nashon Wright has also been impressive throughout the first three games. The Bears’ secondary has yet to exceed expectations through three games. The team still needs a solid veteran player to fill in while Johnson is out on IR.

The Bears have plenty of options to go with regarding adding a defensive back. One controversial veteran safety is a free agent, and he has ties to defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.

CJ Gardner-Johnson has ties to Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen

According to Adam Schefter, the Houston Texans surprisingly released Gardner-Johnson on Tuesday, after just three games with the team. The veteran safety led in interceptions in the 2022 season and has 18 career interceptions. Gardner-Johnson is connected to Chicago due to his relationship with Dennis Allen.

Gardner-Johnson spent his first three NFL seasons with Allen’s former team, the New Orleans Saints. Allen was Gardner-Johnson’s defensive coordinator during his tenure with the Saints. The veteran safety could be a potential scheme fit due to Allen’s defense. However, this could be a big risk for the Bears.

The Bears should not sign Gardner-Johnson, even though he has ties to Dennis Allen

Gardner-Johnson would be too big a risk due to his “locker room issues”. According to NFL insider Aaron Wilson, the veteran safety was “critical of teammates in the secondary and didn’t like his role”.

“Among the issues #Texans experienced behind the scenes with C.J. Gardner-Johnson, per sources, he was critical of teammates in the secondary and didn’t like his role. It was a locker room issue and ultimately this just wasn’t a good fit for the team and for a talented player”

Among the issues #Texans experienced behind the scenes with C.J. Gardner-Johnson, per sources, he was critical of teammates in the secondary and didn't like his role. It was a locker room issue and ultimately this just wasn't a good fit for the team and for a talented… https://t.co/tHhsv9Ur7v

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) September 23, 2025

Bears’ fans might remember Gardner-Johnson during his Saints tenure. The veteran safety fought former Bears receiver Javon Wims during a game in 2020 and had a scuffle with former receiver Anthony Miller during a 2021 playoff game.

Even though Gardner-Johnson might have some good football left in him, it might not be worth the drama for the Bears to sign him. The Bears could likely find a better and cheaper option to fill the holes in the secondary.

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After the absence of cornerback Kyler Gordon was noticeable in the Chicago Bears loss to the Detroit Lions in Week 2, the defensive reserves stood up and played a great game to give the Bears their first win of the season over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. The Bears were also without linebacker T.J. Edwards on Sunday, who missed  Week 1 with a hamstring injury but did play in Week 2.

The Bears chose not to put Edwards and Gordon on injured reserve before Week 1, hinting that they should be available to play against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 4. However, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune cautioned fans that they may not have a huge impact if they do return for Sunday, suggesting they could be on a “snap count” against the Raiders.

Chicago Bears Insider Bradd Biggs provides updates on T.J. Edwards and Kyler Gordon

“I think they will be limited when they return to the practice field,” Biggs said on 670 The Score’s “Mully & Haugh Show “on Tuesday. “They’re going to try to ramp them up. You’d wonder if, when they get to a game, there’ll be some type of snap count.

“I know they’re optimistic that both of those players will be back soon. I think the question is whether or not soon is defined as Sunday or after the buy, which would be at Washington. So, but it’ll be soon. Otherwise, they would have landed on IR, and they could use all the help they can get right now. Right?”

.@BradBiggs shares the latest injury updates on Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards and cornerback Kyler Gordon.

“They’re optimistic that both of those players will be back soon,” Biggs says. “I think the question is whether soon is defined as Sunday or after the bye.” pic.twitter.com/iMVVBXMVDm

— 670 The Score (@670TheScore) September 23, 2025

The absences of Jaylon Johnson,  Gordon, and a limited Edwards were huge when the Bears gave up 73 points in five quarters during their losses to the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions. The Bears were fortunate to get the best of the Cowboys on Sunday, but they could use reinforcements against the Raiders on Sunday.

Even a snap count is preferable to missing Sunday, but the Bears need Gordon and Edwards back to 100 % ASAP if they want to contend for a playoff spot.

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Tyrique Stevenson struggled during the first weeks of the season, but played a key role in the Chicago Bears 31-14 win over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 3. Sevenson took the ball away from Cowboys running back Javonte Williams on Dallas’ opening drive that appeared threatening.

Stevenson had his best game of the season in coverage in Week 3. The Bears are going to need to rely on the third-year cornerback to play like that in the coming weeks, with Jaylon Johnson headed to injured reserve with a groin injury.

Chicago Bears Insider Brad Biggs says Tyrique Stevenson has a lack of consistency

Biggs thinks Stevenson needs to play like he did against the Cowboys for at least the next five games for him to prove he’s taken a leap this season from the flashes of promise he’s shown in years before.

For Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, it isn’t about his talent.

It’s all about consistency, as @BradBiggs told @mullyhaugh. pic.twitter.com/1ZDdIpizgK

— 670 The Score (@670TheScore) September 23, 2025

Ben Johnson acknowledged Stevenson’s big game

Following Sunday’s win, Bears head coach Ben Johnson praised Stevenson for having a “bounce-back game” against Dallas.

“I thought Tyrique in general had a really nice bounce-back game,” Johnson said. “He’s one of those guys, like a lot of us, we haven’t started the season the way we wanted to yet. He’s capable of being a big-time player in this league, and I thought he played that way today.”

Stevenson will have another opportunity to take the next step when he plays quarterback Geno Smith and the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 4, a team that doesn’t have a great receiver corps.

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Chicago Bears rookie tight end Colston Loveland went down early in Sunday’s dominating 31-14 win over the Dallas Cowboys. The rookie caught only one pass, a big 31 yard grab that helped the Bears move down the field to score on their opening drive.

Loveland suffered a hip injury after only 6 snaps and did not return to the game. Fortunately for the Bears, it seems the injury isn’t as serious. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the tight end’s hip injury is “not to be believed as serious and he is expected to have a chance to play Sunday”

The Chicago Bears have an encouraging update on Colston Loveland

Schefter announced the encouraging update on Loveland, via X.

Bears TE Colston Loveland’s hip injury is not believed to be serious and he is expected to have a chance to play Sunday at the Raiders, per source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 22, 2025

During Monday afternoon’s press conference, Ben Johnson confirmed Schefter’s report, stating that “it doesn’t seem like anything super serious.”

It was unfortunate to see Loveland go down on Sunday, especially when he was starting to find his footing in the Bears’ offense. Even though he only had one reception, he was targeted three times early in the game. Hopefully, he can come back fully healthy in time for Week 4 against the Raiders.

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