The Chicago Bears have taken steps to reshape their roster during the early stages of NFL free agency, but questions remain about the team’s overall progress. Attention has now shifted to the areas that still require improvement as the offseason continues.
Chicago addressed several positions with new additions, signaling a commitment to building a more competitive roster. However, evaluations of the team’s current makeup suggest that key gaps remain, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
Chicago Bears, Ben Johnson, NFL
Aug 17, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson on the field before a game against the Buffalo Bills at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
One of the most pressing needs centers on strengthening the defense, where consistency and depth have been ongoing concerns. Improving the unit’s ability to contain opposing offenses and generate pressure remains a priority moving forward.
The Bears’ front office faces decisions on how best to address these issues, whether through the upcoming draft or additional offseason moves. Adding impact players who can contribute immediately would help stabilize the defense and support the team’s broader development.
ESPN’s NFL Analysis Highlights Chicago Bears’ Major Need Amid Free Agency
Chicago Bears, Ben Johnson
Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, right, talks to special assistant to the owner and CEO Chris Spielman during minicamp at in Allen Park on Wednesday, June 7, 2023.
Chicago needs to find a defensive back for next season’s campaign. This is detailed more in an analysis by Bill Barnwell for ESPN.
What’s missing: Defensive back. While the Bears are coming off a division title, GM Ryan Poles hasn’t been staying put. Drew Dalman’s unexpected retirement forced the Bears to acquire a replacement in Garrett Bradbury, but the Bears have been aggressive in making moves around their core. They traded away DJ Moore and brought in a much more appropriate third wideout in Kalif Raymond. With Ozzy Trapilo out to start 2026, Poles brought back Braxton Jones and signed Jedrick Wills Jr. to compete as the short-term left tackle.
On defense, though, there’s still work to be done. Poles admitted that the Bears were interested in trading for Maxx Crosby, and Chicago could still add another pass rusher. But for now, the pursuit of a star edge rusher appears to be on the back burner. The Bears released Tremaine Edmunds and replaced him with former Browns starter Devin Bush, while safeties Jaquan Brisker, C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Kevin Byard III — the latter coming off a first-team All-Pro nod — have been replaced by Super Bowl winner Coby Bryant and former Bills safety Cam Lewis.
While the offense continues to evolve, the importance of a balanced roster has become increasingly clear. A stronger defensive presence would not only complement the offense but also position the team to compete more effectively in close games.
As the offseason progresses, the Bears remain focused on completing their roster build. The work completed so far represents progress, but addressing the remaining needs will be critical to shaping the team’s outlook for the upcoming season.
For More Of My Content
For More Of My Content Follow me on Twitter at @BeatKit22. You may also reach out to me personally at [email protected]. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in college and NFL news, click here!