March 2, 2026, 6:40 p.m. CT

The 2026 offseason is in full swing, and it’s another important one for the Chicago Bears, who are looking to get back to the postseason in head coach Ben Johnson’s second season.

General manager Ryan Poles has some work to do to shore up key needs on the roster. After overhauling the offensive line last offseason, the focus shifts to the defensive line, which is the biggest concern, as well as safety and left tackle. But there’s some work to be done with the salary cap before the start of the new league year as Chicago is currently a projected $4.11 million over the cap. After three straight years of top-10 picks, the Bears will have to wait to pick in the latter part of the first round (No. 25) in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Here at Bears Wire, we’re going position by position to break down where Chicago stands entering the 2026 offseason. Up next is defensive tackle, which should be a focus this offseason after getting lackluster production in 2025.

Who’s on the roster?Gervon Dexter Sr.Grady JarrettShemar TurnerNeed a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!

The top two starters from the 2025 season are set to return next season with Gervon Dexter and Grady Jarrett. Dexter is entering the final year of his rookie deal and continued to flash his potential in 2025 but failed to take that next step to become a legitimate disruptor at the position. Dexter totaled 44 tackles and posted career highs in tackles for loss (four) and sacks (six) last season. While those are decent numbers, Dexter’s impact could have been greater if not for missed tackles or missed turnover opportunities.

Playing beside Dexter was Jarrett, who signed a three-year deal worth $43.5 million last offseason after getting cut from the Atlanta Falcons. Jarrett was brought in as a needed leader on the defensive line, and that’s where his value shined, having been named a captain. His production, however, didn’t resonate the same way. Playing in 14 games due to injury, Jarrett totaled 39 tackles, one for loss, 1.5 sacks, and three pass deflections. Though he had moments of brilliance by generating turnover-worthy throws, Jarrett’s first season in Chicago was a massive disappointment.

The Bears invested in the defensive line early in the draft last year to fill in behind Dexter and Jarrett when they selected Shemar Turner out of Texas A&M late in the second round. Turner played both defensive tackle and edge rusher but appeared in just five games due to injuries. Turner suffered a torn ACL in the middle of the season.

Who’s slated to hit free agency?Andrew BillingsChris Williams

The Bears are set to lose one of their biggest names—literally. Andrew Billings has been with the Bears for the last three seasons and made a name for himself as a legit run-stuffing nose tackle. After being lost for half of the 2024 season, Billings played in every game last year, totaling 31 tackles, six for loss, and one sack. The man nicknamed “Big Bill” made quite the impression on the new coaching staff early on, but he is not expected to return to the Bears in 2026. Chris Williams, meanwhile, was a depth player for the last two seasons. He had 14 tackles, one for loss, and a sack in 14 games.

Who might join the Bears?

The Bears made a splash last offseason when they signed Jarrett in free agency. Could they do it again in 2026? The defensive tackle free agent crop is a bit light, with players such as John Franklin-Myers leading the way. Veterans DJ Reader, David Onyemata, Sebastian Joseph, and possibly Calais Campbell could be viewed as a short-term solution. One intriguing name, however, is Levi Onwuzurike from the Detroit Lions. Onwuzurike has flashed potential since coming into the league, but injuries have limited his availability. He has missed two full seasons with separate injuries, including last year with a torn ACL. Ben Johnson knows him, however, and could be inclined to give him a shot.

Positional need: High

The Bears’ front four was inconsistent when it came to stopping the run and rushing the passer in 2025 and must be addressed this offseason. With just two defensive tackles currently on the roster, the Bears will need bodies to fill in the position to go along with Dexter and Jarrett. With limited options available via free agency and a fairly deep class going into the draft, it’s likely the Bears wait until April to find a starting-caliber defensive tackle rather than overpay for one hitting the market. Regardless, the Bears will need to do more than just rely on Jarrett and Dexter. They know that, too.