Jan. 31, 2026, 2:15 p.m. CT
The Chicago Bears have some important decisions to make about in-house free agents this offseason, including some defensive backs who played key roles in 2025.
Safeties Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker, as well as cornerback Nahshon Wright, are all slated to hit free agency in March, leaving the Bears with some key holes to fill. Chicago will likely consider re-signing one, possibly more, of their in-house free agents, but it’s hard to see them keeping all three of their key defensive backs.
CBS Sports’ Zachary Pereles predicts the Bears will re-sign Wright in free agency after his breakout season in 2025, pairing him with Jaylon Johnson for the short-term future.
“Wright was one of the most surprising breakouts of the 2025 season,” wrote Pereles. “After one interception in four seasons, he had five in his only campaign with the Bears and added two forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.”
The Bears have some pressing needs on defense, most notably along the defensive line and safety. While Wright has made it clear he’d like to return to Chicago, we’ll see if they can afford to bring him back after he certainly earned a pay day after his Pro Bowl season.
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Pereles also mentioned the Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Rams and Jacksonville Jaguars as other potential landing spots for Wright.
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