Dillon Thieneman entered the NFL after the Chicago Bears drafted him at No. 25 in April. His addition filled a gaping hole at safety following the departure of three of their key players at the position. Kevin Byard III, Jaquan Brisker and Jonathan Owens left in free agency and signed with different teams.
The 21-year-old enjoyed a successful collegiate career. He starred for the Purdue Boilermakers for two seasons before entering the transfer portal. Thieneman moved to the Oregon Ducks last season and earned a first-team All-American nod.
He recorded 96 combined tackles, including 52 solo efforts, and two interceptions, helping the program reach the College Football Playoff semifinal.
Thieneman will likely play opposite Coby Bryant in the upcoming season. Safety play could be the key in the Bears’ bid to exceed expectations in 2026.
Chicago Bears defensive back Dillon Thieneman (31) speaks during Rookie Minicamp at Halas Hall.
Chicago Bears agree to terms with Dillon Thieneman
The Bears signed Thieneman to his rookie contract on Friday. The deal is for four years, worth $18.75 million, according to the Chicago Tribune. The contract includes a fifth-year option for the 2030 season.
The team also announced that second-round pick Logan Jones signed a four-year deal. The development leaves No. 69 selection Sam Roush as the only incoming rookie yet to reach an agreement with the franchise.
Thieneman and Jones signed in time for Chicago’s mandatory minicamp, which starts on Tuesday at Halas Hall. The team already held two blocks of its OTAs, with Ben Johnson feeling optimistic about his squad’s chances next season.
The minicamp will give the head coach and his staff a chance to provide the entire roster with more reps. The new additions will have the opportunity to quickly adapt to the playbook and learn the system.
Thieneman can also spend time with Bryant and other veterans to gain insights about an NFL season’s grind and expectations as the campaign progresses.
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