The Chicago Bears’ recent trade for New England Patriots center Garrett Bradbury signals preparation to sign All-Pro right tackle Darnell Wright to a substantial contract extension. With key departures like Maxx Crosby, the Bears now have more salary cap flexibility to focus on securing their offensive line cornerstone.
After releasing linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, trading wide receiver DJ Moore, and seeing Drew Dalman retire, Chicago’s salary cap sits at approximately $33 million, according to Jason Fitzgerald of OvertheCap.com. Bradbury’s acquisition will cost the team around $4.7 million for the upcoming season, leaving roughly $29 million in available cap space. This financial room sets the stage for a major contract agreement with Wright, a priority highlighted by general manager Ryan Poles.
Poles emphasized Wright’s caliber during a post-season press conference, saying,
“I think he can be one of the best to do it,”
underlining the team’s commitment to their young tackle.
Darnell Wright’s Rising Role Boosts Importance of New Deal
Though not a free agent, Wright enters the final year of his rookie contract and is eligible for an extension. When questioned about his future, Wright expressed enthusiasm about staying with the Bears long term, stating,
“I would love to be on this team for my whole career, for sure. That would be great.”
Since being drafted in the first round in 2023, Wright has become indispensable on offense. He played every snap in 2023, 95% in 2024, and nearly all in 2025, earning Second Team All-Pro honors in the latter year. His consistent presence and performance establish him as a key figure the Bears are motivated to retain.
Estimating the Value of Wright’s Contract Extension
Examining the compensation of the NFL’s highest-paid right tackles provides perspective on Wright’s expected contract. Currently, the top salaries include:
- Tristan Wirfs (Buccaneers) – $28.125 million annually
- Penei Sewell (Lions) – $28 million annually
- Lane Johnson (Eagles) – $25 million annually
- Zach Tom (Packers) – $22 million annually
- Taylor Moton (Panthers) – $22 million annually
A realistic target for Wright’s new deal would fall between $22 million and $24 million per year over three to four years. Both Poles and Wright appear to be working toward a four-year contract worth approximately $92 million, positioning Wright just below the league’s highest earners at his position.
Delaying the extension could increase Wright’s market value if other tackles sign lucrative deals first. Securing Wright promptly offers the Bears a foundational piece of their offensive line while preserving salary cap flexibility essential for other roster priorities.
Significance of Wright’s Contract for the Bears’ Offensive Identity
Given the organization’s recent offensive line investments and emphasis on protecting the quarterback, extending Wright is a logical next step to stabilize their frontline. Wright’s development into a key protector and leader on the line solidifies his status as a cornerstone for the Bears’ offensive future. His contract situation will influence the team’s capacity to build around him and manage overall roster construction effectively.
Garrett Bradbury owed $4.7M in 2026, the last year of a two-year, $9.5M deal. Getting a quality center in free agency would have cost Chicago more than that.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 6, 2026
Darnell wright with high praise from his GM:
“I think he can be one of the best to do it.”
Darnell Wright among ALL OT’s per PFF:
▪️7th overall grade
▪️3rd in pass block efficiency
▪️4th in hurries
▪️5th in hits
▪️8th in pressureDarnell is just 24 years old. #DaBears pic.twitter.com/xVd5qz9vwQ
— Clay Harbor (@clayharbs82) January 21, 2026
Darnell Wright is a BEAST!!!!
— Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) January 19, 2026
