The Chicago Bears attempted to shore up their pass rush last offseason by signing former Indianapolis Colts edge rusher Dayo Odeyingbo to a three-year, $48 million contract in free agency.
At the time, it looked like a good move. Odeyingbo was just two seasons removed from racking up eight sacks, and even after logging just three sacks in 2024, he still managed to post 17 quarterback hits, indicating that he was still wreaking havoc in opponents’ backfields.
Well, Odeyingbo managed just one sack and four quarterback hits in eight games during his debut campaign with the Bears before tearing his Achilles, and now, the career of the 26-year-old could be in jeopardy. Odeyingbo does not have an out in his contract until after next season, but Chicago should already start searching for his replacement.
Jacob Infante of Windy City Gridiron combed through some potential options for the Bears in free agency this coming offseason, and one name in particular stood out: Odafe Oweh.
Could the Chicago Bears sign Odafe Oweh to bolster their defense?
Oct 12, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Odafe Oweh (98) celebrates with fans after the game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Oweh is slated to hit free agency after 2025 and has registered 34 tackles, seven sacks and 17 quarterback hits in 16 games between the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers this season (he was traded from the Ravens to the Chargers earlier in the year).
The former first-round pick broke out with 39 tackles, 10 sacks and 23 quarterback hits last year and has long been an analytical darling, owning a 77.5 pass-rushing grade at Pro Football Focus this season. Even back in 2023 when Oweh had totaled just five sacks, his PFF pass-rushing grade was still at 78.5.
Now, it should be noted that the Bears aren’t projected to have a ton of cap room this offseason, so signing Oweh — who should be one of the top edge rushers available — could prove difficult. If we are being perfectly honest, Chicago seems more likely to hit the NFL Draft for an Odeyingbo replacement rather than splurging in free agency.
But if the Bears are able to clear some more money with roster cuts (which is bound to happen), perhaps they can open up enough space to pursue Oweh.
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