The Chicago Bears had a hectic offseason filled with difficult roster decisions, and there is no guarantee that next offseason will be any easier.
Several players will enter the season with uncertain long-term futures, creating potential contract decisions for the front office once the year concludes.
Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic recently examined the Bears’ roster and identified four players who could face major decisions after the season. Each situation depends on factors such as performance, health, and financial flexibility.
What are the chances that each player stays with the Bears beyond 2026?
Jaylon Johnson:Â 50% chance this is his last year with the team
The Bears could save approximately $14 million in cap space if they decide to move on from Johnson next offseason. His situation will likely depend heavily on his health throughout the season.
Johnson has consistently proven himself as a reliable cornerback and has generally lived up to his contract. However, injuries prevented him from staying on the field consistently last season. If Johnson returns fully healthy and performs at his usual level, the Bears could explore an extension before considering a release or trade.
On the other hand, if injuries continue or his play declines, the front office may consider moving on to take advantage of the potential cap savings.
Dayo Odeyingbo: 80% chance this is his last year with the team
Odeyingbo’s future with Chicago may also come down to health and recovery. After tearing his Achilles, there is a possibility he could miss the beginning of the season. Even when he returns, players recovering from that type of injury often take time to regain their previous level of performance.
The Bears signed him to an extension last offseason, but the injury complicates the outlook. Chicago could save about $15 million in cap space by moving on next year, which may become an appealing option if Odeyingbo does not return to form.
Cole Kmet: 40% chance this is his last year with the team
If the Bears decide to move on from Kmet, a trade would likely be the most realistic scenario. Chicago could save around $10 million in cap space by doing so, and the situation is complicated by his role on the roster.
Kmet is expected to enter the season as the team’s second tight end. The Bears may value having a dependable option in that role, which could make it difficult to justify parting ways with him purely for financial reasons.
However, Kmet may eventually seek a larger role elsewhere. If he feels his usage does not match his value, he could prefer a move to another team. The question may come down to whether he is willing to remain with his hometown team on a team-friendly deal.
T. J. Edwards:Â 75% chance this is his last year with the team
Edwards is coming off a fractured leg injury, which already creates uncertainty about his long-term outlook. In addition, the Bears signed Devin Bush and re-signed D’Marco Jackson, two linebackers who may be viewed as better fits within the defensive system led by Dennis Allen.
Financial considerations could also push the team in that direction. Chicago would be able to save approximately $8.5 million in cap space by releasing Edwards after the season. With his injury recovery and the changes to the linebacker room, the chances of him remaining with the Bears beyond this year appear relatively low.
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As the season unfolds, performance and health will likely determine how these decisions ultimately play out. For now, the Bears may once again be headed toward another offseason filled with major roster questions.