The Chicago Bears began their free agency period with significant activity, securing key defensive players to strengthen their roster for the upcoming seasons. On the first day of free agency, the Bears added top safety Coby Bryant, linebacker Devin Bush coming off a strong year, and defensive tackle Neville Gallimore to enhance their defensive front. These moves aim to address critical gaps while positioning the team to build further through the draft and remaining free agency.
Why Re-Signing D’Marco Jackson Could Be a Key Victory
One of the clearest wins for the Bears on day one was re-signing linebacker D’Marco Jackson. His new two-year contract worth $7.5 million, with potential incentives raising the total to $10.5 million, offers him a stable role on the roster moving forward. Unlike other free agents who might find similar deals elsewhere, Jackson’s agreement reflects the Bears’ confidence in his ability to contribute, particularly as their likely third linebacker.
Jackson’s value lies not just in his presence but in his coverage skills, which set him apart last season. Returning from injury, he is expected to share the field with new acquisition Devin Bush, who will have an every-down role. Meanwhile, TJ Edwards, despite still being on the roster, struggled with coverage and recovery, elevating Jackson’s importance in the linebacker group.
“#Bears are bringing back LB D’Marco Jackson on a 2 yr, $7.5 million deal worth up to 10.5 million, sources tell The Insiders. pic.twitter.com/09qRUUsfP1” — Mike Garafolo
“D’Marco Jackson was PFF’s 2nd highest graded LB in coverage this season, min 350 snaps” — Ilan
The Return of Braxton Jones: A Surprising Yet Promising Signing
The Bears also brought back offensive lineman Braxton Jones on a one-year deal valued at $5 million plus up to $5 million in incentives. This contract offers Jones a chance to re-establish himself as a key contributor, especially after losing his starting spot last season following struggles linked to recovering from a fibula injury.
Jones faces competition from newcomer Theo Benedet, who had taken his place and whose contract is considerably less lucrative. However, Jones’s return suggests the Bears believe he can regain his form and provide valuable depth to their offensive line, a crucial area following injuries such as Ozzy Tzapilo’s season-ending patellar tendon tear in the playoffs.
“The Braxton Jones deal with the #Bears is 1-year, $5M with another $5M in incentives, per sources.” — Jordan Schultz
Maintaining Confidence in Austin Booker Amid Edge Rush Market Moves
On the defensive edge, Austin Booker remains a pivotal figure for the Bears, even as the team refrained from pursuing high-profile free agents aggressively. Although the market saw considerable activity with teams vying for top pass rushers, Chicago chose not to overcommit financially, signaling trust in Booker’s development and contributions.
The Bears’ reluctance to compete for costly edge rushers like Maxx Crosby, whose market value soared beyond their willingness to pay, reflects a strategy to balance risk and reward. While the team is expected to add competition, possibly through the draft, Booker’s role as a situational pass rusher appears secure for now, giving him a better chance to impact the 2026 squad without being overshadowed by costly free-agent signings.
Day One Results Set the Stage for Further Roster Building
By addressing major defensive weaknesses early in free agency, the Bears have taken a solid first step toward shaping their 2026 roster. The signings of Bryant, Bush, Gallimore, and the re-signing of Jackson and Jones respectively aim to balance experience with potential, providing a foundation on which the team can continue to build during the draft and future free agency windows.
These strategic moves not only improve the Bears’ depth and versatility but also send a signal to current players about the team’s direction and their roles in the season ahead. As the offseason progresses, focus will likely shift to adding more edge rushers and augmenting other positions, but the current acquisitions have already created a measure of confidence among players and fans watching the transformation.
#Bears are bringing back LB D’Marco Jackson on a 2 yr, $7.5 million deal worth up to 10.5 million, sources tell The Insiders. pic.twitter.com/09qRUUsfP1
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 9, 2026
D’Marco Jackson was PFF’s 2nd highest graded LB in coverage this season, min 350 snaps
— Ilan (@ilannfl18) January 20, 2026
The Braxton Jones deal with the #Bears is 1-year, $5M with another $5M in incentives, per sources. https://t.co/xYCoeBomvt
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 9, 2026
