Bears Retool Roster at NFL Combine, Eyeing Trades and Free Agency

Chicago Bears focus on supplementing core roster as they look to build on 11-win season

Feb. 26, 2026 at 10:48pm

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The Chicago Bears are taking a different approach at the 2026 NFL Combine, with the focus shifting away from adding a top draft prospect to retooling their roster through potential trades and free agency. After a successful 11-win season led by quarterback Caleb Williams, the Bears are now in a position to make tough decisions on veteran players like linebacker Tremaine Edmunds and wide receiver DJ Moore as they look to build around their established core.

Why it matters

The Bears' shift in approach at the Combine signals that the team has the foundation in place and is now focused on making strategic additions to supplement their core roster. This puts them in a much better position compared to previous years when they were trying to piece together a contending team from scratch.

The details

The Bears have met with several defensive line prospects, including Ohio State's Kayden McDonald, as they look to retool that unit. However, the bigger news has been the team's willingness to entertain trade offers for players like Edmunds, Tyson Bagent, and Gervon Dexter Sr. This indicates the Bears are open to making difficult decisions to free up cap space and roster spots to bring in new talent, whether through the draft, trades, or free agency.

  • The 2026 NFL Combine is taking place in Indianapolis.
  • The Bears' 11-win season ended with a playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams.

The players

Ben Johnson

Head coach of the Chicago Bears.

Ryan Poles

General manager of the Chicago Bears.

Tremaine Edmunds

Linebacker for the Chicago Bears who has been given permission to seek a trade.

Tyson Bagent

Quarterback for the Chicago Bears who has reportedly received trade interest.

Gervon Dexter Sr.

Defensive tackle for the Chicago Bears who has reportedly received trade interest.

DJ Moore

Wide receiver for the Chicago Bears who has a high cap hit and could be a potential trade candidate.

Kayden McDonald

Defensive tackle prospect from Ohio State who the Bears have met with at the Combine.

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What they’re saying

“We got to make some tough decisions.”

— Ryan Poles, General manager, Chicago Bears (fox32chicago.com)

“We know the conversations are happening.”

— Chris Kwiecinski, Sports columnist (fox32chicago.com)

What’s next

The Bears will continue to evaluate their roster and explore potential trades and free agent signings to supplement their core group of players. The decisions they make in the coming weeks and months will shape the 2026 Bears team.

The takeaway

The Bears' approach at the 2026 NFL Combine signals a shift from previous years, as the team now has a strong foundation in place and is focused on making strategic additions to build a contender. This puts them in a much better position than trying to piece together a roster from scratch, and the tough decisions they make on veteran players will be crucial to their continued success.