The Chicago Bears finished the 2025 NFL season 11-6 and won the NFC North division title. They also knocked their hated rivals, the Green Bay Packers out of the postseason before falling to the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round. Overall, it was a very successful season.

Of course, new head coach Ben Johnson deserves a great deal of credit for the quick turnaround in Chicago. He revamped the offense and brought in a bright new coaching staff that helped players reach new heights.

Among these was defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, whose 2025 Bears defense led the NFL in takeaways. However, they also finished near the bottom of the league in passing yards and points allowed.

The Chicago Bears are urged to trade linebacker TJ Edwards ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft

Chicago has already made some changes on defense by signing safety Coby Bryant to replace Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker, both of whom signed elsewhere in free agency.

Over the course of the off-season, Chicago has taken measures to cut salary and set themselves up to be able to extend players, sign other free agents, and sign their 2026 NFL Draft class.

Jerry Markarian of Sports Illustrated believes that the Bears should continue to do so by trading, not cutting, linebacker TJ Edwards:

“With that said, they could trade him and save $6.2 million against the cap. Trading him with a post-June 1st designation would save closer to $8 million. They wouldn’t get much (at all, actually), but a deal in the vein of a late-round pick swap would make a lot of sense to get his contract off the books and allow them to get under the cap to sign their rookie class.

“This year’s draft class would provide Chicago with a unique opportunity to replace him with someone who would be a much better fit for the style of defense they want to have. There are a lot of fast and physical ‘backers who will hear their name called on day two.”

Chicago cannot release Edwards to save money. He has a $12 million dead cap hit, but just a $10.6 million cap hit if he remains on the team. The only way they can move on from him and save money is by trading him.

Markarian argues that Edwards, who is coming off a major leg injury, may not be the speedy linebacker that the Bears need to improve as a defensive unit. He suggests that a late pick swap with another team in a trade for Edwards would make sense.

And it might. Chicago would save money and open up more opportunities for younger players. On the other hand, though, they would lose an important locker room voice.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears make desperate pitch to Roger Goddell for NFL Draft
• Sean McVay leaves no doubt on his opinion of Bears QB Caleb Williams
• Bears keeping tabs on speedy wide receiver

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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Chicago Bears starting linebacker TJ Edwards has been dealing with a rough round of injuries in 2025. The star linebacker had surgery on a fractured hand back in November while he was dealing with a previous hamstring injury.

More news: Chicago Bears HC suggests Caleb Williams is a game manager

Edwards has only appeared in 5 games in 2025. With both him and Tremaine Edmunds being out with injuries, the team has been severely thin at the linebacker position.

Thankfully, the Bears seem to have a very positive update on the status of one of their best run defenders.

TJ Edwards returned to practice on Tuesday

More news: Ben Johnson confirms permanent change at left tackle for Chicago Bears

According to Chris Emma of 670 the Score, Edwards returned to the practice field at Halas Hall. The team will issue their injury report Wednesday. It’s likely that the linebacker was limited in practice.

The Bears wrapped up practice at Halas Hall with T.J. Edwards (hand/hamstring) back on the field. After missing the last four games, he could be close to a return. The team will issue its first injury report tomorrow.

— Chris Emma (@CEmma670) December 2, 2025

The good news is that Edwards is gearing for a return. If he practices in full leading up to Sunday, we might see him back on the field against the Green Bay Packers.

Despite being without all three starting linebackers, Dennis Allen’s defense has been able to hold the fort down. DeMarco Jackson has stepped up in a great way in place of Edwards.

Edwards returning for the Packers game could be a major boost, especially in stopping their run game with Josh Jacobs.

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As soon as the Chicago Bears’ defense begins to look healthy, it continues to go downhill. The Chicago Bears are now dealing with three very key injuries right before Week 12’s pivotal matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

More news: Chicago Bears’ Caleb Williams has request for Aaron Rodgers

The team has now confirmed the game status of starting linebackers TJ Edwards, Tremaine Edmunds, and Noah Sewell. The Bears are going to be in a very deep hole against a good Steelers team.

The Chicago Bears will be without all three starting linebackers against the Pittsburgh Steelers

More news: Chicago Bears have worriesome update for All-Pro before Steelers game

The Bears confirmed via their injury report on X, that all three starting linebackers will not play on Sunday. Edwards has dealt with a broken hand and a lingering hamstring issue. Sewell is now out with an elbow injury as well.

The biggest blow is losing Edmunds. Edmunds is on the verge of a pro bowl caliber season and is tied with Bears cornerback Nashon Wright for the second most interceptions in the NFL.

This now leaves only DeMarco Jackson and rookie Ruben Hyppolite as the only options at linebacker for the Bears. There’s a chance that Amen Ogbongbemia might get meaningful reps as well.

#Bears Friday Injury Report pic.twitter.com/FGsLSftEjQ

— Bears Communications (@BearsPR) November 21, 2025

It seems more likely that defensive coordinator Dennis Allen will run a lot of nickel defense to hopefully make it easier for the Bears’ defense.

Hopefully the Bears could get either Jaylon Johnson or Kyler Gordon able to play, which would be a major boost for the secondary at least.

The post Chicago Bears lose all three starting linebackers for Week 12 appeared first on ChiCitySports.

It looks like the Chicago Bears’ defense will be dealing with another injury setback. The Bears’ defense are currently without multiple starters including Jaylon Johnson, Kyler Gordon, and Dayo Odeyingbo.

More news: Chicago Bears top offensive lineman gives high praise from NFL legend

It seems likely that they will be without a key part of their run defense at least for a few weeks. Head coach Ben Johnson has now confirmed that the Bears’ defense will be without linebacker TJ Edwards.

The Chicago Bears’ linebacker had surgery on a broken hand according to Ben Johnson

More news: Ben Johnson continues to see growth in Chicago Bears QB Caleb Williams

According to Michael Dwojak of Bears insider, Johnson confirmed to the media that Edwards had surgery on a fracture in his hand. This will then rule the Bears’ linebacker out for Sunday’s game against the Bengals.

Regarding the long term aspect of the injury, Johnson gave an encouraging update. The belief around the Bears’ staff is Edwards won’t need to go on injured reserve. This could mean that Edwards will only be out for a minimum of three weeks.

This could lead to a potential return at the end of November against the Philadelphia Eagles. Hopefully Edwards can return to full strength. The Bears’ linebacker signed an extension with the team this past offseason and is a key part of the defense, particularly in the run game.

The post Chicago Bears top linebacker suffers broken hand appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears will look to move past Week 2’s blowout loss as they begin to prepare to face the Dallas Cowboys.

The team has been dealing with key injuries since the season started. Starting slot corner Kyler Gordon has yet to see the field. TJ Edwards missed Week 1 and then returned for Week 2. However, Edwards reaggravated his hamstring injury and left early during the game.

Jaylon Johnson returned from his groin/calf injuries last week, but then went down and got hurt during Week 2’s loss. It was confirmed on Monday that Johnson will be out indefinitely. According to Brad Biggs, the Bears’ head coach, Ben Johnson told the media that “nothing official” has been determined for the star cornerback. It has been confirmed that Johnson will be out on Sunday, as expected.

Ben Johnson says "nothing official" has been determined for CB Jaylon Johnson. Obviously, he's not an option for the #Bears this Sunday.

— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) September 17, 2025

Multiple Chicago Bears starters did not practice on Wednesday

The Chicago Bears posted their injury report following Wednesday’s practice, via X.

https://Twitter.om/BearsPR/status/1968403729121505286

Kyler Gordon missed practice yet again. Edwards did not practice as well as defensive lineman Grady Jarrett. Jarrett has been dealing with a knee injury. With Johnson already out, there could now be four defensive starters out for Sunday’s game. This would be such a major blow to an already depleted defense.

Defensive back Jaylon Jones did not practice due to a hamstring injury. Jones will likely be needed for Sunday due to Johnson being out and Gordon being unlikely to play.

D’Andre Swift has now been added to the Bears’ injury report

The Bears also revealed that starting running back D’Andre Swift was limited in practice on Wednesday due to a quad injury. It is unknown how serious this injury is. Hopefully, this is just a precaution.

Swift has had a rough start to the 2025 season; however, he is a key part of the Bears’ offense. Swift ran for 63 yards on 12 carries during last week’s loss. He also ran for a touchdown during the second half of the game, when the game was out of reach for the Bears.

The post Multiple key Chicago Bears starters miss Wednesday’s practice per report appeared first on ChiCitySports.

As the Chicago Bears finish gearing up for Monday Night football against the Minnesota Vikings, the team is still dealing with multiple injuries. Both Jaylon Johnson and Jaquan Brisker have returned this week to the practice field. However, there are still a few worries about some top players on the roster.

On Friday. the Bears released an updated injury report before practice. The Bears’ star cornerback practiced in a limited capacity for the second day in a row, and rookie running back Kyle Monangai was limited yet again. Second-string running back Roschon Johnson missed another practice due to a foot injury.

The biggest concern right now is that their top run defender has missed a second straight practice.

#Bears Friday Injury Report pic.twitter.com/9fd6dzkB8U

— Bears Communications (@BearsPR) September 5, 2025

Chicago Bears linebacker TJ Edwards is dealing with a hamstring injury

Edwards has now missed two straight practices with a hamstring injury. Edwards led the team with 129 tackles during the 2024 season.

The linebacker is a major part of the defense and is also a proven leader. In particular, Edwards has been really good at defending the run. Losing him could be a huge help for Minnesota running backs Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason. Losing Edwards for the first game of the season would be very tough for Dennis Allen’s defense.

On 670 The Score, Bears insider Brad Biggs mentioned that Edwards has not missed a regular-season game in 5 years. Biggs also mentioned that “oftentimes” when a player gets a hamstring injury, it could lead to three weeks being out.

The Bears cannot afford to lose one of their top players on defense this early; hopefully, he can practice in a small capacity on Saturday.

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Dennis Allen will be making numerous changes as the Chicago Bears new defensive coordinator. But when it came to the team’s starting linebackers, everything seemed fairly straightforward entering training camp. However, Allen has some tricks up his sleeve when it comes to building his first Bears defense.

Tremaine Edmunds and TJ Edwards are the unquestioned leaders atop the linebacker depth chart, that isn’t changing. Under former head coach Matt Eberflus, Edmunds played middle linebacker while Edwards was on the weakside. Both players saw success at times, but it’s hard to say if either hit their true peak.

Throughout training camp, Allen has had each linebacker playing both positions, via Patrick Finley of the Chicago Sun-Times. Edwards has experience at middle linebacker during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles while Edmunds’ athleticism and 6-foot-5, 250 pound frame could fit well on the weakside in Allen’s new scheme, Finley opines.

Overall, Allen will continue mixing and matching his linebackers to figure out what would be the best fit. It’s a challenge that both players welcome as they look to help the Bears get back on track.

“I’m going to do whatever they put me out there [for],” Edmunds said. “Whatever position is out there, whatever they want me to play, I’m going to do my thing. I’m going to leave it up to the coaches.”

“Tremaine and I are still king of doing both,” Edwards added. “Honestly, it really helps us learn the defense and just understand big-picture-wise what we’re doing. I think we’re both comfortable in either role. And as you know, as we start getting closer here, those things will start to get determined and decided in that way.”

Tremaine Edmunds must step up  

The Bears signed Edmunds to a four-year, $72 million contract heading into the 2023 season. Since joining the team, he has made 233 tackles, 15 passes defended and five picks, even taking one to the house. However, the linebacker hasn’t necessarily lived up to expectations in the Windy City.

Edmunds was named to the Pro Bowl twice with the Buffalo Bills. He has failed to reach those marks with the Bears, as his 2024 59.2 grade from Pro Football Focus, ranked 119/189 linebackers, paints a telling picture. Edmunds is the fourth-highest paid player on Chicago’s roster. If he doesn’t take a step forward, the Bears will need to seriously consider his future.

Still, the NFL at large still thinks highly of Edmunds, with coaches, scouts and executives ranking him the No. 6 overall off-ball linebacker in the league, via Jeremy Fowler of ESPN. Furthermore, he has drawn rave reviews throughout training camp. If Allen is able to unlock Edmunds’ potential, it wouldn’t be a shock to see him take a massive step forward.

Chicago Bears pay TJ Edwards 

After two years in Chicago, the Bears awarded Edwards a two-year, $20 million contract extension. He is now poised to lead the linebacking unit for the foreseeable future. If everything goes to plan, Edmunds will be joining him.

Over his 34 games with the team, he has made 284 tackles, 10 passes defended, 6.5 sacks and four interceptions. Like Edmunds, Edwards struggled in 2024 with a 60.7 grade from PFF, ranking 108/189 linebackers. However, his Bears debut saw him record a career-high three interceptions and tie his career-best seven passes defended while recording 155 tackles.

Clearly, Chicago views the linebacker as a key figure in their defense moving forward. At either middle or weakside linebacker, Edwards must prove he is worth his contract extension. But like Edmunds, the 28-year-old is embracing Allen’s gambit and is ready to take on any position assigned to him.

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While everyone has been focused on new head coach Ben Johnson and what he’ll bring to the offense, Dennis Allen’s defensive changes will be just as crucial for a true Chicago Bears revival. At least working in his favor is the fact the Bears roster one of the best linebackers in the league.

Tremaine Edmunds is coming off of a down year by most standards. However, there is a reason Chicago is paying him a hefty $72 million. As the Bears prepare for the 2025 campaign, how Edmunds performs will be crucial for any defensive success.

At least in the eyes of NFL executive, coaches and scouts, the linebacker is in a strong position to put together a breakout season. Edmunds is ranked as the sixth-best off-ball linebacker entering 2025, via Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.

“He has the prototypical physique, athletic ability and speed that you covet in an ILB in today’s game,” an NFL personnel director said. “He can diagnose playing downhill in the box, he can play sideline to sideline and has the coverage ability to match up in zone or man coverage.”

“”Smart, but not as instinctive as you’d hope,” an NFL coordinator added. “If you put his ability with [teammate T.J. Edwards’] instincts, you’d have an All-Pro.”

Chicago Bears counting on Tremaine Edmunds 

It’s not like Edmunds’ 2025 season was a complete disaster. He still registered 110 tackles, eight passes defended, a sack and an interception. But Edmunds’ 59.2 grade from Pro Football Focus ranked 119/189 linebackers. The Bears are expecting more out of the $72 million man.

That’s not to say he hasn’t been impressive. Edmunds registered a career-high four interceptions in his Bears debut. As Johnson, Allen and company built out their new-look defense, they did so with Edmunds in mind. Chicago would like to see him return to Pro Bowl form, as he made the event twice with the Buffalo Bills. But to this point in the offseason, Edmunds has only received praise for the work he has done and will do in 2025.

Working in Edmunds’ favor will be the presence of Allen. While his time as head coach of the New Orleans Saints didn’t work out, his scheme highlighted how strong of a linebacker Davis is. He made the Pro Bowl in both 2022 and 2023 before registering 136 tackles, seven passes and two sacks in 2024. Edmunds and Davis are completely different players. But it wouldn’t be a shock to see Edmunds rise as a true leader in Allen’s scheme.

The Bears do have an out in Edmunds’ contract following the season, meaning another rocky campaign could end his time in the Windy City. However, if he really is the sixth-best linebacker in the NFL, Chicago won’t want him to leave anytime soon.

Don’t forget about TJ Edwards

While TJ Edwards didn’t make the list, he was listed among fellow linebackers earning votes. He was the first name listed in that category for good measure. But no matter the rankings, the Bears clearly believe in Edwards and proved it by awarding him a $20 million contract extension.

In his Chicago debut, Edwards put up 155 tackles, seven passes defended, three picks and 2.5 sacks. His tackles fell to 129 in 2024, but Edwards still made three passes defended, a pick and a career-high four sacks. His drop in production did hurt his PFF numbers though, as Edwards’ 60.7 grade ranked 108/189 linebackers.

But like Edmunds, Edwards should receive a boost by the arrival of Johnson and Allen. Chicago went through plenty of coaching changes in 2024. Now, the linebackers will be in a consistent scheme with plenty of opportunities to shine.

Edwards has already proven his worth to the Bears, landing his contract extension. But a breakout season could move him into the top ten 2026. Arguably more important to Chicago, it’d put the team’s defense on the map again.

The post Dennis Allen’s first Chicago Bears defense features top 10 linebacker appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears have always been known for their dominating linebackers throughout their storied franchise history. Dick Butkus, Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs, and Mike Singletary to name just a few.

The Bears have two very good starting linebackers on their roster: Tremaine Edumunds and TJ Edwards. The problem is that both starters failed to live up to their expectations in the 2024 season.

However, with Dennis Allen running the defense moving forward, the Bears’ linebacker core should see a huge improvement in 2025.

In a new ranking from Pro Football Focus, the Bears’ linebacker unit ranks in the middle of the pack at number 14.

The Chicago Bears’ linebackers unit ranks third overall in the NFC North

The NFC North has a loaded group of linebackers. Chicago’s unit ranks third overall among NFC North teams in PFF’s latest ranking.

The Detroit Lions were ranked second overall in the NFL with star players such as Alex Anzalone and. Jack Campbell. The Minnesota Vikings were ranked 10th overall due to the overall production their unit made in 2024, despite not having household names. The Green Bay Packers rank last among the NFC North, coming in at the 18th spot.

PFF had this to say regarding the Bears’ linebackers unit:

“The Bears will be hoping for a bounce-back campaign from their two highly paid veteran linebackers. Tremaine Edmunds hasn’t been able to reach the heights of his outstanding 2022, when he earned an 81.9 PFF overall grade. In two seasons with Chicago, Edmunds has posted a below-average 57.5 PFF overall grade.

T.J. Edwards played very well in 2023 but notched a career-worst 60.7 PFF overall grade last season. New defensive coordinator Dennis Allen will need to extract better production out of the pair, considering the lack of experience behind them.”

TJ Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds must bounce back in 2025

In order for the Bears defense to have a stronger 2025, Edmunds and Edwards must go back to their old form. Edwards earned himself a contract extension this past offseason and needs to get back to dominating in tackles and making plays. Edmunds had a rough 2024 and will need to step up in a huge way to stay on this roster moving forward.

Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen needs to get the best out of his starters also due to the lack of experience the backups have. There is a chance Noah Sewell and get some playing time. Chicago also has veteran linebacker Amen Ogbongbemiga and rookie Ruben Hyppolite apart of its linebacker core.

Hyppolite is an interesting name to watch during this upcoming preseason as well. Head coach Ben Johnson had many great things to say about the rookie during OTAs. Hyppolite could end up becoming a solid depth piece for this unit.

If Edmunds and Edwards can get back to their old ways, Dennis Allen should have a lot of fun running a potential dominant defense during the 2025 season.

The post Chicago Bears linebackers in middle of the pack in latest ranking appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Two Chicago Bears players were recognized on Tuesday for receiving the 2024 Brian Piccolo Award for best exemplifying the former running back’s traits of courage, loyalty, teamwork, and dedication. The award goes to one rookie and one veteran each offseason.

This year, linebacker T.J. Edwards and wide receiver Rome Odunze won the award.

During the award ceremony, new head coach Ben Johnson threw shade at one of them for making a critical mistake in the 2024 season.

Ben Johnson threw shade at T.J. Edwards

Edwards had an infamous bite on the “Stumblebum” play that allowed Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff to hit tight end Sam LaPorta for a touchdown in the Lions’ 34-17 win over the Bears on Dec. 22.

The ole stumblebum #ProBowlVote | @JaredGoff16 pic.twitter.com/zdHiS7M2Hy

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) December 22, 2024

On Tuesday, Johnson had a brutal remark for Edwards when he told the linebacker that he might not have the Bears’ head coaching job if Edwards had defended properly.

Ben Johnson had a thank you for T.J. Edwards.

“It was in December that if you hadn’t taken the cheese on that stumble bum play I wouldn’t have gotten this job,” Johnson said.

— Sean Hammond (@sean_hammond) April 22, 2025

Johnson didn’t let that play define what he thought of Edwards, as the linebacker signed a two-year extension worth $20 million with the Bears this offseason.

Chicago Bears coach wrote a poem for Brian Piccolo

Johnson had another big moment during the ceremony. He channeled his inner Ben Jonson, a playwright and poet from the English Renaissance, by reading off a poem he wrote about Piccolo.

“Not just in games, but in each test, a Bear by number, name, and grace,” Johnson said via video from ESPN’s Courtney Cronin. “But more than that, a steady face. He wasn’t picked in any round or fame–no headlines danced around his name. Yet still he fought and still he rose a quiet strength the whole team knows; with courage burning deep and true.

“He gave his all in all he do, not just in winds, but every day. He led with heart in every play. He stood for loyalty and trust. A friend, a guide, both firm and just. He showed that greatness doesn’t shout but lifts others up day in and day out. His life was marked by dedication, a model for each generation, each practice, moment, snap, and stride; he gave his soul and pride.

“When illness came, he met the storm with strength that moved beyond the norm. And though his race was far too brief, he left behind a bold belief that love is real in brotherhood. That fighting back is doing good. That joy and grit can coexist. That every name deserves a list. Today, we see his spirit rise in steadfast hands in his eyes. And though he’s gone, his story grows–a legacy that never slows.”

Ben Johnson wrote this poem titled “More than a number” about Brian Piccolo. pic.twitter.com/SZU4OZUoRc

— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) April 22, 2025

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 ensured a significant part of their defense remained in the Windy City when they signed linebacker TJ Edwards to a two-year, $2027 million extension. Now under contract through 2027, Edwards will be a focal point of Chicago’s defense for the foreseeable future.

Already two years into his Bears tenure, Edwards has left his mark, setting numerous career-highs. While new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen is expected to bring plenty of changes, Edwards will remain a constant. For Chicago’s defense to succeed, the linebacker needs to remain at the top of his game.

Growing up in Lake Villa, Illinois, Edwards joining the Bears was a homecoming. Following his new extension, the linebacker is here to stay, via Nicholas Moreano of Bear Goggles On.

“I wanted to be here,” Edwards said. “Winning here is different.”

"I wanted to be here. … Winning here is different." — T.J. Edwards on his contract extension pic.twitter.com/XQaTEdrhbQ

— Nicholas Moreano (@NicholasMoreano) April 22, 2025

TJ Edwards’ run with Chicago Bears 

After beginning his NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles, Edwards joined the Bears on a three-year, $19.5 million contract prior to the 2023 season. He started off his Chicago career with a bang, starting all 17 games while registering 155 tackles, seven passes defended and a career-high in both quarterback hits (eight and interceptions (three).

Edwards followed that up by recording 129 tackles in 2024 with three passes defended, a pick and a career-high four sacks. While his numbers dipped a bit, the Bears are confident with Edwards in the middle of the field.

He’ll now be tasked with helping Chicago come out of the defensive cellar. The Bears finished their 2024 season ranked 27th in the league by allowing 353.3 yards per game. They were truly abysmal against the run, ranking 28th by allowing 136.3 YPG. Edwards won’t do it alone, but he will need to cause chaos near the line of scrimmage and stop any runners from getting a full head of steam downhill.

In Edwards’ message, he noted that winning in Chicago is different. Unfortunately, he hasn’t done much of that yet as the Bears have gone a collective 12-22 over his two years with the team. However, things are a bit different entering 2025.

By hiring Ben Johnson as their next head coach, the Bears have brought a brand new excitement to the Windy City. They franchise will need to prove it with results on the field, but everyone from fans and analysts have been signing Chicago’s praises. Signing players like Edwards and Kyler Gordon to contract extensions shows that the team has found their defensive foundation.

The linebacker couldn’t resist the opportunity to play for his hometown Bears when eligible. Now fully locked in, Edwards is ready to help Chicago return to form and claim their spot atop the NFC North.

The post TJ Edwards’ immediate reaction to $20 million Chicago Bears extension appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears started their offseason by aggressively bolstering their trenches on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball. After that, general manager Ryan Poles and company decided to ensure the Bears’ defensive core stays in tact.

That started by making Kyler Gordon that highest paid slot cornerback in the NFL with a $40 million contract. Then, the Bears agreed to a two-year, $20 million contract extension with linebacker TJ Edwards. After a strong two-year run with the team, Chicago left no doubts about Edwards being a focal point of the defense.

New head coach Ben Johnson hasn’t had the opportunity to officially coach Edwards yet. However, the linebacker has already made a strong impression. After Edwards put his signature on the dotted line, Johnson had nothing but glowing remarks about the key Bears linebacker, via Luis Medina of Bleacher Nation.

“We are happy that T.J. and his family will remain members of the Chicago Bears,” Johnson said. “It is hard not to notice the positive influence that T.J. has in our building, and we are excited to have his leadership as we work to build our team.”

Poles believed that Edwards would be a strong fit in Chicago when he signed him to a three-year, near $20 million contract in 2023. The linebacker got to return to his hometown team. And Poles gave the Bears’ defense a player to build around.

“Our entire organization is excited for T.J. and his family,” Poles said. “T.J. has had a positive impact on our organization over the last two years, both on and off the field. We are grateful to have T.J. as a member of the Chicago Bears Family, and we look forward to his continued leadership on our team.”

TJ Edwards’ run with Chicago Bears

Edwards began his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, spending four years with the team. Over 61 games, he racked up 389 tackles, five sacks, 13 passes defended, nine quarterback hits and two interceptions. But when the Bears came calling, Edwards couldn’t resist the opportunity.

He immediately elevated his game in year one in Chicago, recording a career-high 2.5 sacks, eight quarterback hits, seven passes defended and three picks to go alongside 155 tackles. Over his entire career with the Bears, Edwards has made 284 tackles, 14 QB hits, 10 passes defended, 6.5 sacks and four picks. Put simply, the linebacker has surpassed many of his Eagles numbers in just two seasons with the Bears.

Chicago’s contract extension is a testament to both Edwards’ output and how much better the team thinks he can get. Dennis Allen will surely enact change as he steps in as defensive coordinator. But Edwards will be a constant in the middle of the field. If Chicago is going to have a defensive revival in 2025, Edwards will be at the center of it.

The Bears have spent big in free agency as they try to make their way back into contention. Edwards has been one of their clear winners. Now, he’ll be a defensive leader in the Windy City through at least the 2027 season.

What Bears must improve 

While Edwards is a strong building block, the Bears need more than one player to get where they need to be defensively. Johnson’s arrival may have brought plenty of hype about the offense’s potential. However, Chicago’s defense must show true improvement in 2025 to be considered a real contender.

The Bears ended their 2024 campaign ranked 27th in total defense, allowing 354.3 yards per game. They truly struggled against the run, ranking 28th overall by allowing 136.3 yards per game. The team brought in veteran Grady Jarrett and has a rising player in Gervon Dexter. Both must step up to stop the line from reverting to a leaky faucet.

Chicago was better against the pass, but they still ranked in the middle of the pack at 16th by allowing 217.9 YPG. The team has a solid secondary core, built around Gordon and Jaylon Johnson. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds must be spry in the middle of the field while Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker act as ball hawks on the back end.

The pieces are in place for success, but Johnson, Allen and the entire Bears organization must figure out how to put them all together. But by re-signing players such as Gordon and Edwards, Chicago is confident they’re on a path towards continued defensive success.

The post Ben Johnson’s immediate reaction to TJ Edwards’ extension with Chicago Bears appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles has had a hectic and successful offseason. Poles was able to hire top candidate Ben Johnson, rebuild the interior offensive line completely, and add major pieces to the defense.

Recently, the Bears GM extended star defensive back Kyler Gordon, making him the highest-paid slot cornerback in the NFL with a whopping 3-year, $40M extension. Poles has prioritized extending key pieces of this football team, and he’s done it again.

In a new post on X from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, it has been revealed that the Bears have now extended another huge piece to Dennis Allen’s defense.

The Chicago Bears have agreed to a contract extension with TJ Edwards

According to Rapoport, the deal is a 2-year extension worth $20M with $16.6M fully guaranteed.

Sources: The #Bears have paid another key piece of their defense. This time, they lock up LB TJ Edwards on a 2-year, $20M extension with $16.6M fully guaranteed.

The tackling machine earns another done by agent @SteveCaric of @Wasserman. pic.twitter.com/NJSGEro3DU

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 16, 2025

Edwards has been a key part of the Bears defense since joining the team in 2023. This past season, the veteran linebacker had a combined 129 tackles, 79 solo tackles, and 50 assisted tackles. He also had four sacks and an interception in 2024. In 2023, he had a combined 155 tackles as well as three interceptions and 2.5 sacks.

Edwards was also a team captain during the 2024 season and was a huge voice in the locker room. He is expected to be one of the leaders of the defense for the 2025 season.

The tackling machine has been a major part of the Bears defense, and is expected to have a great season under defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.

It is great to see that the Bears are prioritizing keeping key players for the long term. Hopefully, it can lead to winning football in Chicago.

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As Ben Johnson prepares to take over at head coach, the Chicago Bears have been diligent in attempting to improve all aspects of their roster. But the Bears aren’t even close to finalizing what they’ll look like completely in offensive line.

Chicago’s early offseason was built around mainly improving in the trenches. The team signed center Drew Dalman, defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett early in the free agent window. And all of those deals came after the Bears traded for guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney.

However, General Manager Ryan Poles and company still have plenty of moves to make. Even with all the hype, this is still a team that went 5-12 in 2024. As Chicago deciphers what to do next, Adam Jahns of The Athletic analyzed what positions on the roster should be addressed.

“The Bears added five new starters up front this offseason: guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, center Drew Dalman, defensive tackle Grady Jarrett and defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo,” Jahns wrote. “Adding a draft pick or two will also improve the trenches. The depth at linebacker and safety now stands out.”

“Linebacker T.J. Edwards and safety Kevin Byard are entering the final years of their contracts, while there is an affordable exit point in linebacker Tremaine Edmunds’ deal after 2025,” Jahns continued. “Safety Jaquan Brisker has a history of concussions. Addressing both positions in the draft makes sense.”

State of Chicago Bears linebackers 

The Bears will have a decision to make after the 2025 season on both Edwards and Edmunds. But at least entering the campaign, both are expected to be defensive leaders for Chicago.

Edwards will be entering his third year with the Bears. So far, he has racked up 284 tackles, 10 passes defended, 6.5 sacks and four interceptions. Now in a contract year, Edwards will have some extra juice to put together a strong performance. Edmunds joined the Bears at the same time Edwards did. Over his two years in Chicago, the linebacker has made 223 tackles, 15 passes defended, and five interceptions. He’ll need to step up before the Bears begin pondering his contract. But Edmunds will have a focal role in Dennis Allen’s defense.

The one question mark remains Noah Sewell. Chicago decided to not tender Jack Sanborn, and then saw him reunite with Matt Eberflus on the Dallas Cowboys. Sewell has appeared in 22 games over his Bears tenure, but he has yet to make a start. The linebacker has made 13 tackles and two forced fumbles. Chicago may be high on him, but they could use another option should Sewell fall short.

As they continue to scour the free agent market, linebacker will arguably be the team’s most immediate need. With four selections inside the top 75 in the 2025 NFL Draft, it wouldn’t be a shock to see them target the position there either.

What about the safeties 

As it stands, Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker will be Chicago’s starting safeties in 2025. Both have had standout moments and neither necessarily needs to be benched. However, the safety position is certainly one the Bears will need to consider in the near future.

Byard is set to be a free agent after the season, and he is entering his age-32 campaign. He has proven there is still plenty of gas left in the tank, racking up 130 tackles, seven passes defended and an interception in 2024. Furthermore, Byard ranked top 10 in both his pass rush (83, sixth/171 safeties) and run defense (86, eighth/171 safeties) grade from Pro Football Focus. So while the Bears will need to begin thinking about Byard’s future, he’ll be a crucial part of Chicago’s defense in 2025.

Brisker is in a bit stickier situation. He played in just five games during the 2024 season as he battled concussion issues. Moreso than anything else, he’ll just need to prove he can stay on gridiron for a full 17 games. In the five games Brisker did play, the safety racked up 40 tackles, two passes defended and a pick. The safety had 100+ tackles in his first two seasons and nine pass break ups in 2023. Furthermore, he has made an interception in all three of his NFL seasons. All this to say, Brisker is oozing potential, he just needs enough time on the field to prove it.

While safety is not necessarily a pressing need, adding some immediate depth could be in Chicago’s best interest. In the long-term however, the Bears will need to find a Byard replacement, and potentially a Brisker one too if he can’t stay healthy.

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The Chicago Bears gave up the 32nd pick in the NFL Draft for Chase Claypool and it didn’t immediately work out for the Chicago Bears during the 2022 NFL season.

The Chicago Bears’ off-season was graded by a few anonymous NFL GMs for the trade down from the first overall pick to the haul the Bears added in free agency in an article in The Athletic.  Most notably was Ryan Poles being blasted for the move to trade for Chase Claypool which looks like an absolute disaster thus far.

“If I’m a Bears fan, I’m still really pissed that we lost the 32nd pick in the draft for Chase Claypool,” another exec said, referencing the trade Chicago made with Pittsburgh during last season. “How bad does that move look now that you had to include D.J. Moore in the No. 1 pick trade?”

The Claypool trade was a disaster almost immediately for the Bears.  Claypool wound up dinged up and then Justin Fields was forced to fight through injuries.  The two never developed any sort of chemistry and Claypool struggled to pick up the offense.  It remains to be seen whether or not the Bears made the right call.

Barring a tremendous turnaround in Claypool’s career trajectory it will be very hard to overcome the loss of the 32nd pick in the 2023 NFL Draft that the Chicago Bears gave up to the Steelers.

In other analysis of the Bears off-season thus far NFL execs had this to add to the discussion stating,

Counting Moore, acquired from Carolina when the Bears traded down from first to ninth in the draft order, Chicago added players with $70 million in combined annual salary, most in the league. Linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, Moore, guard Nate Davis, defensive end DeMarcus Walker and linebacker T.J. Edwards accounted for most of that.

“The Bears are interesting because people are like, ‘Do they really have to go all-in on off-ball linebackers?’” an exec said. “But in (Matt) Eberflus’ system, those guys are pretty critical. The good thing is, they have a plan. They had a ton of money. There wasn’t a top-heavy free agency class with a lot of big-money guys you are dying to get. Adding D.J. Moore is better than any receiver you are going to get in free agency.”

Chicago made the trade with Carolina earlier on the calendar than most similar trades are made. GM Ryan Poles indicated a deal with Houston for the second pick fell through. Had Chicago pulled off that trade, the team might have been able to double dip, moving down again. Waiting around in attempt to maximize value would have frozen some of the Bears’ plans for free agency, however.

“You can only put your focus and energy into so many parts of the roster when that type of deal is not done yet,” an exec said.

The Bears must feel good about addressing their offensive and defensive lines in the draft. Chicago holds the ninth pick, plus extra picks in the second, fourth, fifth and seventh rounds.

The  Chicago Bears did well to remake the defense in the mold of the Brian Urlacher Lance Briggs era Bears defense.  Tremaine Edmunds will be in the Brian Urlacher MIKE role and TJ Edwards be the WILL linebacker spot that Lance Briggs manned during the Bears’ defensive heyday of 2005 to 2012.

The Chicago Bears will still need to find their Tommie Harris to man the 3-technique spot, but the hope is Jalen Carter falls to the Bears at nine overall to give the Bears a chance at moving close to the Monsters of the Midway.

Of note, the Chicago Bears still need to find a starter center and a starting right tackle before the 2023 season.  Whether that comes via another trade, a late free agency addition after June 1st cuts or via the NFL Draft remains to be seen.

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