Chicago Bears Confident in Retaining Star Safety Kevin Byard

Chances of Byard re-signing with Bears reportedly at 70-30 as both sides work to reach a fair deal

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Despite the Chicago Bears' defensive struggles with pass rush, their secondary led the NFL in takeaways last season, largely due to the play of star safety Kevin Byard. Byard, who led the league in interceptions in 2025, is set to become a free agent next week. However, the Bears are reportedly confident in their ability to re-sign the All-Pro defender, with ESPN 1000's David Kaplan stating the chances are '70-30' that Byard returns to Chicago.

Why it matters

Retaining Byard would be a major boost for the Bears as they look to build on their takeaway-heavy defense and potentially make a Super Bowl run in 2026. Byard's leadership and playmaking ability are seen as invaluable assets for the team.

The details

According to Kaplan, both the Bears and Byard are working to agree on a contract that is fair for both sides. Byard's ability to create turnovers was a key factor in the Bears leading the NFL in takeaways last season, despite their struggles with pass rush. Keeping the All-Pro safety in Chicago is seen as crucial for the team's defensive success going forward.

  • Byard is set to become a free agent when the new NFL league year begins next week.

The players

Kevin Byard

A 2025 leader in interceptions and defensive captain for the Chicago Bears, Byard is set to become a free agent next week.

David Kaplan

An ESPN 1000 reporter who stated the chances of Byard re-signing with the Bears are '70-30'.

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What they’re saying

“The chance of the Bears bringing the All-Pro safety back for 2026 is a '70-30' chance.”

— David Kaplan, ESPN 1000 reporter (YouTube)

What’s next

The Bears and Byard will continue negotiations in the coming days to try and reach a deal before the start of free agency.

The takeaway

Retaining Byard is crucial for the Bears as they look to build on their takeaway-heavy defense and make a potential Super Bowl run in 2026. The high odds of Byard re-signing suggest the team is committed to keeping their star safety in Chicago.