The Chicago Bears’ work in 2026 free agency has begun. The first day of legal tampering isn’t even over, and they’ve already made six moves. All of them carry an interesting message about the team’s plans as things keep unfolding. For one, five of the six moves were on defense, making it pretty clear Bears general manager Ryan Poles is focused on getting Dennis Allen’s unit some help. There has only been one offensive move, and it carries some interesting undertones about what else could be coming.
This tracker will help Bears fans stay in the loop on what’s happening. It will be updated regularly as more moves come down the pipeline.
Chicago Bears in-house free agent returns
EDGE Daniel Hardy – 2-year deal for $6 million
Arguably, the Bears’ best special teams player last year has become a mainstay in the third phase since arriving a few years ago. A valued member of the roster.
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LB D’Marco Jackson – 2-year deal for $10.5 million
His standout play after stepping in for an injured Tremaine Edmunds certainly delivered a strong argument that he deserved an opportunity to compete for the starting job.
QB Case Keenum – 2-year deal for $8 million
He never played a snap, but Keenum’s value to the team was immeasurable. He mentored Caleb Williams, who had a breakout season, breaking the Chicago Bears’ single-season passing record.
LT Braxton Jones – 1-year deal for $10 million
The Chicago Bears have chosen to dance with the devil they know over the one they don’t. Jones is healthy now, understands the system, and can be a solid player. He should buy them the time they need.
Outside additions
S Coby Bryant – 3-year deal for $40 million
A versatile, playmaking safety from the defending champion Seattle Seahawks. He has seven interceptions in his last two seasons and can be used as a chess piece all over the field.
LB Devin Bush – 3-year deal for $30 million
The former 1st round pick had an uneven start to his career with inconsistency marring his time in Pittsburgh and Seattle. However, he seemed to blossom as a weakside linebacker in Cleveland.
DT Neville Gallimore – 2-year deal for $12 million
He’ll never be the anchor a defensive line, but he’s proven to be a valuable rotational defensive tackle who can give you some pressure up the middle every week.
