Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles has reiterated his intention to retain safety Kevin Byard as the team moves forward into the offseason. Speaking on Rich Eisen’s show, Poles highlighted safety as a priority position for the Bears and confirmed that Byard remains a key target to bring back.
When asked about plans concerning the free-agent defensive backs, including Jaquan Brisker, Nahshon Wright, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Poles stated,
“I think the clear one is safety. All four guys are up, and Kevin is one of the leaders of our team, so he’s a guy that we are interested in bringing back, and from there it’s a domino effect of what we can and can’t do, but we’ll start with our own and build off into free agency.”
?Ryan Poles, Chicago Bears General Manager
Byard’s performance and contract considerations shape Bears’ strategy
This marks the second occasion Poles has specifically singled out Byard as a player the Bears want to re-sign, making it clear that he envisions Byard in Chicago’s lineup for 2026. Byard had a strong 2023 season, leading the NFL with seven interceptions and earning All-Pro honors. His previous two-year contract paid him $15 million total, and his anticipated market value now hovers around $7.8 million annually.
Although Byard is 32 years old, raising questions about potential decline, his recent season demonstrated that he continues to play at an elite level. While there were occasional coverage lapses, his playmaking ability and leadership on defense remain invaluable.
As for the other Bears’ free-agent defensive backs, the outlook is less optimistic. Nahshon Wright is projected to command more than $10 million per year, a price tag too steep for the team. Jaquan Brisker and C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s futures with the Bears are uncertain, and Chicago is expected to target new talent in the secondary early in the upcoming NFL Draft to fill possible gaps.
Future roster moves impact Byard’s contract outlook
The Bears’ next major roster decision involves linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, who has been granted permission to explore trade options. The outcome of Edmunds’ status could influence the Bears’ ability to finalize a new deal with Byard. Once that domino falls, securing Byard’s contract extension will likely be prioritized.
Overall, retaining Kevin Byard would provide stability and leadership for a Bears defense navigating key offseason changes. Keeping their proven playmaker in the secondary may give Chicago a foundation to build upon heading into the next season’s challenges.
Ryan Poles shares he wants Kevin Byard back and not to expect BIG splashes in this years free agency market.
“We’ll be active but it will be in a different space of free agency w guardrails on what we can and can’t do.” #DaBears #Bears #ChicagoBears pic.twitter.com/RWbBqeiDRU
— Clay Harbor (@clayharbs82) February 25, 2026
