The Chicago Bears added cornerback and safety Cam Lewis on a two-year contract, raising questions about the ongoing Jonathan Owens replacement question within the team’s defensive backfield. The signing took place recently, aiming to bolster the Bears’ options in the secondary as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Lewis, a 28-year-old veteran with six years of NFL experience, has appeared in 76 games and started 10 over the past two seasons. His track record, particularly in run support and special teams, positions him as a potentially valuable asset in slot coverage and core special teams roles.
Cam Lewis’ Role and Potential Impact on the Bears Defense
While not viewed as a major game-changer by some, Lewis could step into an important role as the Bears’ slot corner, a position significant especially if Kyler Gordon—widely regarded as one of the top nickelbacks when healthy—faces injury issues. Lewis’ experience in this role, combined with his consistent special teams contributions, offers insurance in a group that has struggled with durability concerns.
Gordon, at 26, has battled injury problems throughout his NFL career, missing multiple games each season and playing only three games last year. Lewis’ presence could prove critical as the Bears aim to maintain stability in the slot coverage units and special teams, providing depth where it matters most.
Comparing Cam Lewis with Previous Defensive Back C.J. Gardner-Johnson
Last season, an injury to Gordon opened the door for C.J. Gardner-Johnson to join the Bears, and Gardner-Johnson quickly became one of Chicago’s most impactful defensive players after signing in Week 9. However, Gardner-Johnson’s tenure in Chicago appeared temporary, with expectations he would seek a starting role and larger contract elsewhere.
Though Lewis is not considered at the same performance level as Gardner-Johnson, he has been a reliable presence across his past two years in the league, particularly in run defense and special teams. His ability to fill multiple roles could align with Chicago’s current needs, especially if the team aims to replace the various on-field contributions formerly provided by Jonathan Owens.
Jonathan Owens’ Departure Leaves a Gap in Defensive Backfield Depth
With Jonathan Owens no longer on the roster and Coby Bryant the only safety currently under contract, the Bears face a clear need to reinforce their defensive backfield. Lewis’ signing might signal the team’s plan to address these gaps, particularly on special teams, where Lewis has excelled with the Buffalo Bills over the last four years.
Lewis has played over half of the Bills’ special teams snaps during that period and has accumulated 34 tackles in that unit, highlighting his effectiveness in a phase of the game that remains critical for overall team performance.
Future Considerations for the Bears’ Secondary Composition
Despite Lewis’ versatility and special teams prowess, there remains uncertainty about whether this signing sufficiently covers the needs left by Owens and Gardner-Johnson. Fans and analysts alike hope the Bears will continue to target slot cornerbacks in the draft or free agency to avoid a downgrade in this important position.
Although Gardner-Johnson was a standout player when available, his presence was somewhat of a luxury caused by considerations surrounding his situation in Houston. In contrast, Lewis might represent a more stable, if less dynamic, piece in Chicago’s secondary puzzle.
The Bears are signing veteran cornerback Cameron Lewis on a two-year deal, a source said. He's a six-year veteran at the age of 28 with 76 games under his belt, including 10 starts the last two seasons.
— Chris Emma (@CEmma670) March 10, 2026
