The Chicago Bears are anticipating a significant boost to their linebacker group as they approach the free agency period. With linebacker depth identified as a critical weak point, the team is exploring several options, including the possibility of signing veteran Demario Davis, who could reunite with former defensive coordinator Dennis Allen in Chicago.
Despite clinching the NFC North title in 2023, the Bears’ linebacker unit struggled to deliver consistent performances. Tremaine Edmunds’ production did not match his salary, T.J. Edwards was sidelined by injuries, and newcomer Ruben Hyppolite failed to make a notable impact. Strengthening this position would be a key step toward enhancing the defense under Allen’s leadership for the 2026 season.
Evaluating Demario Davis as a Potential Fit
Demario Davis remains one of the most accomplished linebackers on the free-agent market, offering the Bears a chance to add proven talent. Since entering the NFL as a third-round selection by the New York Jets in 2012, Davis has amassed an impressive 1,536 total tackles and continued to produce at a high level during his recent tenure with the New Orleans Saints.
Last year, Davis recorded 143 total tackles, including 64 solo stops and six tackles for loss. He confirmed his intention to return to play next season in a recent interview on ‘The Up & Adams Show.’
“I’m coming back to the NFL. And I’m excited about that, I am super excited about that,”
Davis said.
“I keep training all of the way through the Super Bowl, so my body feels great. I’m just excited. I’m excited for the offseason, and then I’ll get into my offseason training regimen and prepare to do it all over again. How that plays itself out, we shall see.”
– Demario Davis, Linebacker
Benefits and Risks of Bringing Davis to Chicago
Signing Davis would allow the Bears to add a veteran linebacker familiar with Dennis Allen’s defensive scheme, which could help the team maintain its competitiveness and possibly contend for a Super Bowl. With Edmunds likely to be released due to his $17.4 million cap hit, Davis could fill the starting role alongside Edwards, while D’Marco Jackson continues contributing on special teams and in reserve roles.
However, Davis’ age presents the most significant risk. Having turned 37 earlier this year, questions remain about his longevity. Still, Davis showed impressive performance metrics in 2023, earning an 80.3 overall grade and an 88.9 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus. He is not known as a dominant pass rusher, recording only 13 pressures across 70 pass-rushing snaps last season, which suggests his primary value lies in run defense and cleanup duties.
The financial commitment required for Davis, with Spotrac estimating his market value around $9.5 million, could be costly for the Bears, especially if Davis does not meet expectations after Edmunds’ departure. The team must carefully balance this risk against potential rewards when considering their linebacker strategy.
Alternatives and Future Prospects at Linebacker
Another factor in the Bears’ decision-making is the potential for D’Marco Jackson to expand his role within the defense. If Jackson is ready to assume greater responsibilities, Chicago might prioritize adding depth at the position instead of signing a high-profile starter like Davis.
While Davis would bring leadership and a two-time Pro Bowl pedigree, the Bears are confronted with weighing the immediate impact against the risk of investing heavily in a veteran nearing the end of his career. This uncertainty leaves the team likely to explore other options in free agency to address the linebacker deficiencies more prudently.
It sure sounds like Saints LB Demario Davis is open to testing the free agent market 👀@demario__davis | @heykayadams pic.twitter.com/tDr5m5rmZH
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) January 27, 2026
