Bears Facing Uphill Battle to Retain Top Unrestricted Free Agents

Chicago may lose several key defensive backs and other starters in 2026 offseason

Feb. 19, 2026 at 9:15am

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The Chicago Bears are facing difficult decisions with 10 unrestricted free agents this offseason, and it appears they may not be able to retain many of their top players, including defensive backs Nahshon Wright, Jaquan Brisker, and Kevin Byard III. According to reports, Bears GM Ryan Poles has indicated it will be a "challenge" to re-sign Byard, while Wright and Brisker may also depart due to the team's crowded secondary and Brisker's concussion history. The Bears could also lose other starters like offensive lineman Braxton Jones, defensive tackle Andrew Billings, and quarterback Case Keenum in free agency.

Why it matters

The potential loss of so many key starters, especially in the secondary, would be a significant blow to the Bears' roster as they look to build on their successful 2025 season. Retaining top talent is crucial for the team to remain competitive in the NFC North, and the front office will need to get creative in free agency and the draft to adequately replace any departures.

The details

According to reports, Bears GM Ryan Poles has indicated it will be difficult to re-sign safety Kevin Byard III due to salary cap constraints. Cornerback Nahshon Wright may also depart as the Bears have depth at the position with Jaylon Johnson, Kyler Gordon, and Tyrique Stevenson. Safety Jaquan Brisker's concussion history is also a concern for the team as they evaluate his future. Other starters like offensive lineman Braxton Jones, defensive tackle Andrew Billings, and quarterback Case Keenum are also expected to test free agency.

  • The Bears' 10 unrestricted free agents will hit the open market on March 13, 2026.

The players

Kevin Byard III

A starting safety for the Bears who had a strong 2025 season, but may be too expensive for the team to retain.

Nahshon Wright

A starting cornerback for the Bears who may become expendable due to the team's depth at the position.

Jaquan Brisker

A starting safety for the Bears who has dealt with concussion issues, potentially complicating the team's decision to re-sign him.

Braxton Jones

A starting offensive lineman for the Bears who could depart in free agency.

Andrew Billings

A starting defensive tackle for the Bears who may not be re-signed.

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What they’re saying

“Regarding Byard, Wiederer shared that Poles said retaining him "will be a challenge," indicating Byard might not return to the Bears in 2026.”

— Dan Wiederer, Reporter

“In a crowded secondary that includes Johnsn, Kyler Gordon and Tyrique Stevenson, it may prove difficult to keep Wright on a practical deal.”

— Dan Wiederer, Reporter

“it would not be a shock if the veteran defensive back [C.J. Gardner-Johnson] was left to join his seventh team when the spring arrives.”

— Dan Wiederer, Reporter

What’s next

The Bears will need to make difficult decisions on which of their unrestricted free agents to prioritize re-signing before the start of free agency on March 13, 2026.

The takeaway

The Bears are facing a challenging offseason as they look to retain key contributors from their 2025 playoff team. Losing multiple starters in the secondary and on both the offensive and defensive lines would be a significant blow, forcing the front office to get creative in free agency and the draft to adequately replace that talent.