The Chicago Bears are reportedly considering adding linebacker Alex Anzalone as they navigate roster changes ahead of the 2026 NFL season. This development comes after the Bears allowed linebacker Tremaine Edmunds to pursue a trade, creating a need at that key defensive position. The move has significant implications for the Detroit Lions, as both teams compete in the same division and player movement could shift the balance of power.
Cap Space and Familiarity Drive Bears’ Interest in Anzalone
The Bears currently exceed their salary cap by approximately $4 million, making Edmunds’s trade a logical step to relieve financial pressure. Edmunds, who started 45 games over the last three seasons, carried a $15 million contract for 2026. Filling his spot is essential, and Alex Anzalone has emerged as a leading candidate. Chicago’s defensive coordinator Dennis Allen previously coached Anzalone during their time together in New Orleans, adding an element of continuity and confidence in his fit within the Bears’ defense.
Alex Anzalone’s Progress and Potential Impact in Chicago
While Anzalone began as more of a rotational player under Allen in New Orleans, he developed into a key contributor after joining the Detroit Lions. His strengths lie primarily in pass coverage, where he surpasses Edmunds. In the 2023 season, Edmunds’s coverage grade stood at 52.1, ranking 50th among 88 graded linebackers according to PFF. He allowed 56 receptions, 530 yards, and four touchdowns in 13 games. Meanwhile, Anzalone played all 16 games and permitted 40 receptions for 409 yards and two touchdowns. His coverage grade was 65.3, placing him 23rd in that category among linebackers, indicating a more effective role in defending against passing offenses.
Although Edmunds outperformed Anzalone in run defense with an 81.3 grade compared to Anzalone’s 65.6, the former Bears linebacker remains a dependable all-around defender. Anzalone’s skill set and familiarity with Chicago’s defensive scheme under Allen make him a viable and cost-effective option as the Bears seek to reshape their linebacker corps.
Financial Implications and Future Prospects for Anzalone and the Bears
Spotrac estimates that Anzalone could land a contract worth around $14.5 million over two years, averaging $7.3 million annually. This contract would save the Bears between $8 million and $10 million compared to Edmunds’s current salary. Beyond financial benefits, Anzalone’s veteran presence and compatibility with the defensive system make him a strong candidate to address Chicago’s needs at linebacker.
Despite Anzalone recently expressing loyalty to the Lions and frustration over being omitted from a team video montage, the possibility of him joining the Bears—Detroit’s division rival—has gained momentum. Fans of the Lions may find this scenario difficult, but it also signals that Anzalone is motivated to continue playing at a competitive level, and the Bears could offer that opportunity.
What This Means for the NFC North and Upcoming NFL Season
The Bears’ interest in Alex Anzalone illustrates the dynamic nature of NFL roster management and the importance of strategic moves within divisional rivalries. If the Bears secure Anzalone, they would gain a linebacker with proven coverage ability who understands their defensive scheme. Meanwhile, the Lions will need to adapt to losing a key contributor. This trade possibility could alter defensive matchups and impact both teams’ prospects for the upcoming season.
As the NFL offseason progresses, closely monitoring this situation will be essential for followers of the NFC North, particularly given the unresolved nature of the Bears’ linebacker lineup and Anzalone’s future. The next few weeks will likely reveal further clarity on this developing story.
The #Bears have granted permission for LB Tremaine Edmunds to seek a trade, according to a league source. He's under contract for the '26 season at $15M. Still young and was Pro Bowl-caliber player thru first 10 games before minor injury. Finished year healthy. Led D in tackles.
— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) February 25, 2026
