The Chicago Bears had a great offseason with signings and trades, and the new players made a massive impact on the 2025 roster.
Chicago's rebuilt offensive line has completely shifted the look of the offense from 2024, making it one of the best units in the NFL. Even on defense, with career backup in cornerback Nahshon Wright, becoming one of the top defenders in the NFL in creating turnovers.
Bears general manager Ryan Poles has done a masterful job of finding the right players to help the roster. One risky offseason signing for the Bears, though, might need some playing time in the last few games to help lock himself into the roster in 2026.
Nick McCloud needs some reps on Bears' defense to prove he deserves to be in Chicago
Chicago's secondary has undoubtedly taken a hit with injuries this season, with Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon missing significant time. Wright took advantage of the situation and is now on his way to being paid big time in the offseason.
McCloud, on the other hand, had a shot to take over for Gordon early in the season, but has struggled mightily in coverage. He has 27 tackles and two pass deflections on the season, but the most telling numbers are allowing a completion percentage of 77.8% and a passer rating of 140.7, as well as allowing three touchdowns to him.
Due to the poor play of McCloud, the Bears brought in C.J. Gardner-Johnson to convert him from a safety to a nickel corner, which he has held on to since then. That was a very telling sign that the franchise had lost hope quickly in McCloud and found a better solution in the slot.
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The situation is now that McCloud will have to prove his worth on special teams, or if an injury happens with Gardner-Johnson, that he can step in for one last try. McCloud needs to do something to make an impression on the Bears, as he is on his way to being a free agent in 2026, and Chicago might pass up on making him an offer.