Tremaine Edmunds has always been one of the more physically talented linebackers in the NFL, but the pieces have never all come together for him, whether it be with the Buffalo Bills or the Chicago Bears. Entering the season, it seemed like Edmunds was fading from being a face of the franchise to just another guy, but this season has lit a spark in the veteran.
The Chicago Bears are finally seeing Tremaine Edmunds' breakout
According to Pro Football Focus, he was excellent in the Bears' win against the Washington Commanders, and anyone watching the tape would have to agree. As PFF notes, this is also the third straight game in which Edmnunds has been a lot better, including his two-interception game against the Dallas Cowboys. A lot of it can be tied to Edmunds stepping up, but a good portion goes to the coaching staff.
Tremaine Edmunds vs. The Commanders
— Just Another Year Chicago: Bears (@JAYChi_Bears) October 15, 2025
-80.9 overall pff grade
-90.8 run defense (highest on Bears)
-13 TOT
-3 stops
It was also his 3rd game in a row with 11+ total tackles pic.twitter.com/9yo6HQazm1
Edmunds has always been in the MIKE role. That is because he is viewed as the middle man in the defense due to his size. He can block passing lanes, and with his draft status, he was always expected to lead the defense. However, the Bears have him in the WILL role.
This role is more of a run-and-chase role with less directing. It makes sense because T.J. Edwards is a smart and savvy linebacker, and Edmunds is a physically imposing player, so they would switch roles between them.
This allowed Edwards to set the defense and get everyone in the right spot. It allowed Edmunds not to worry about nearly as much and run and tackle the ball carrier. It highlighted the strengths in both of them.
This does not appear to be any fluke. Dennis Allen has always been a well-regarded defensive coordinator, and Edmunds can always thrive in a scheme where this is what is being asked of him.
Read more: Bears' Week 6 rookie report card includes second-round pick's breakout game
Do not be surprised if Edmunds finally reaches the heights that so many claimed he could before the draft, and then when the Bears paid him in free agency. Edmunds went from overpaid and playing his way out of Chicago to a cornerstone piece.