Cornerback Nahshon Wright Agrees to Free-Agent Deal with Jets

Wright had a breakout season with the Bears, earning a Pro Bowl alternate selection.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

After a standout 2025 season with the Chicago Bears that included five interceptions, two forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries, cornerback Nahshon Wright has agreed to a free-agent contract with the New York Jets, according to multiple reports.

Why it matters

Wright's emergence as a playmaking cornerback was a bright spot for the Bears' defense, which led the league in takeaways and interceptions last season. His departure is a loss for Chicago, but the 27-year-old cornerback has now cashed in on his breakout campaign with a lucrative free-agent deal.

The details

Wright was originally a third-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys in 2021 but was mostly a reserve through his first three NFL seasons. He was traded to the Minnesota Vikings in 2024 but spent most of that year on the practice squad. However, Wright seized his opportunity with the Bears last season, becoming a starter after an injury to Pro Bowl cornerback Jaylon Johnson. Under the tutelage of defensive backs coach Al Harris, with whom Wright had previously worked in Dallas, the cornerback flourished, earning NFC Defensive Player of the Month honors in November.

  • Wright was originally drafted by the Cowboys in 2021.
  • He was traded to the Vikings in 2024.
  • Wright had his breakout season with the Bears in 2025.
  • Wright has now agreed to a free-agent contract with the Jets in 2026.

The players

Nahshon Wright

A 27-year-old cornerback who had a breakout season with the Chicago Bears in 2025, earning a Pro Bowl alternate selection.

Al Harris

The defensive backs coach for the Chicago Bears, who had previously worked with Wright during their time together with the Dallas Cowboys.

Jaylon Johnson

A Pro Bowl cornerback for the Chicago Bears who missed time due to injury, allowing Wright to step into a starting role in 2025.

New York Jets

The NFL team that has agreed to sign Nahshon Wright to a free-agent contract.

Chicago Bears

The NFL team that Wright played for in 2025, where he had a breakout season.

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What they’re saying

“To see him have the success he's had, it warms my heart. I know what he's been through. I know how hard he has worked.”

— Al Harris, Defensive Backs Coach, Chicago Bears (The New York Times)

What’s next

The Jets will look to integrate Wright into their secondary as they aim to improve their defense in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Nahshon Wright's journey from a reserve cornerback to a playmaking starter is a testament to his hard work and the impact of strong coaching. His free-agent deal with the Jets is a well-deserved reward for his breakout campaign with the Bears, which showcased his potential as a difference-maker in the NFL.