Bears Sign Trio of Defensive Free Agents

Chicago adds LB Devin Bush, S Coby Bryant, and DT Neville Gallimore to bolster defense

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Chicago Bears have made several key defensive free agent signings on the first day of the new league year, inking deals with linebacker Devin Bush Jr., safety Coby Bryant, and defensive tackle Neville Gallimore.

Why it matters

The Bears struggled on defense last season, ranking near the bottom of the league in several key metrics. These signings represent an effort to upgrade the unit and provide more playmakers to complement the team's talented offense.

The details

Bush, a former Browns standout, signed a 3-year, $30 million contract. He is coming off a career-best 2025 season with 125 tackles, 3 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 sacks. The Bears also re-signed linebacker D'Marco Jackson to a 2-year, $10.5 million deal. Bryant, a Super Bowl champion with the Seahawks, joined on a 3-year, $40 million pact. Gallimore, a 6-year veteran, signed a 2-year, $12 million contract to bolster the defensive line.

  • The Bears made these signings on the first day of the 2026 NFL free agency period.

The players

Devin Bush Jr.

A 7-year NFL veteran linebacker who spent the first six seasons of his career with the Browns.

Coby Bryant

A 27-year-old safety who spent his first four NFL seasons with the Seahawks, winning a Super Bowl with the team.

Neville Gallimore

A 29-year-old defensive tackle who has spent time with the Cowboys, Rams, and Colts over his 6-year NFL career.

D'Marco Jackson

A linebacker who was primarily a special teams player for the Bears before earning four starts late in the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to build a defense that can compete at the highest level in this league. These signings represent an important step in that direction.”

— Ryan Poles, Bears General Manager (Bears press release)

What’s next

The Bears still have several other positions to address on defense, including the safety position opposite Coby Bryant. They could look to the draft or free agency to fill those remaining needs.

The takeaway

The Bears have made a concerted effort to upgrade their defense through free agency, adding several veteran playmakers to a unit that struggled last season. These signings, if they pan out, could help the Bears return to the playoffs in 2026.