Chicago Bears Sign OL Jedrick Wills Jr.

Offensive lineman joins Bears on one-year deal after five seasons with Cleveland Browns.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 11:37pm

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The Chicago Bears have signed offensive lineman Jedrick Wills Jr. to a one-year contract. Wills, who spent the last five seasons with the Cleveland Browns, has started 57 of 58 career games at left tackle and was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2020 after helping the Browns reach the playoffs.

Why it matters

The Bears are looking to bolster their offensive line after a disappointing 2025 season, and the addition of Wills, a talented young tackle, could provide a significant boost to their blocking unit and running game.

The details

Wills, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, played three seasons at the University of Alabama, where he started 29 games at right tackle and earned Second-Team AP All-America and First-Team All-SEC honors in 2019. As a rookie with the Browns in 2020, Wills started 15 games at left tackle and helped the team reach the playoffs. He continued to be a key part of the Browns' offensive line over the next four seasons, including in 2022 when he helped pave the way for running back Nick Chubb's career-high 1,525 rushing yards.

  • Wills was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 1st round (10th overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft.
  • Wills started 15 games at left tackle for the Browns as a rookie in 2020, earning PFWA All-Rookie Team honors.
  • In 2021, Wills helped the Browns' offense rank tied for 1st in the NFL with 5.09 rushing yards per attempt.
  • Wills started 8 games for the Browns in 2023 before signing with the Chicago Bears in March 2026.

The players

Jedrick Wills Jr.

A 24-year-old offensive lineman who spent the first five seasons of his NFL career with the Cleveland Browns, starting 57 of 58 games at left tackle.

Chicago Bears

The professional American football team based in Chicago, Illinois that competes in the National Football League (NFL).

Cleveland Browns

The professional American football team based in Cleveland, Ohio that competes in the National Football League (NFL).

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What they’re saying

“Jedrick Wills Jr. is a talented young offensive lineman who will be a great addition to our team. We're excited to have him on board and look forward to seeing him contribute to our success.”

— Chicago Bears General Manager (Chicago Bears)

What’s next

Wills is expected to compete for a starting role on the Bears' offensive line during training camp and the preseason.

The takeaway

The Bears' signing of Jedrick Wills Jr. is a strategic move to bolster their offensive line and provide more protection and running lanes for their offense. Wills' experience and success with the Browns make him a promising addition as the Bears look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season.