Statistically, the Chicago Bears' defense wasn't very good in 2025, though it was fundamentally sound and opportunistic. That's not only a testament to good coaching but also to the club's efforts in the secondary.
More specifically, standout cornerback Nahshon Wright and All-Pro safety Kevin Byard deserve a ton of credit for helping mask the Bears' warts. The NFL community ostensibly agrees, as both were represented by the franchise in the 2026 Pro Bowl Games. However, they're each notably set to hit unrestricted free agency this offseason, raising valid concerns about their respective futures in Chicago.
But by the sound of it, if Wright and Byard have their druthers, they'll be back in the Windy City next season. The question now becomes: How will Bears general manager Ryan Poles respond?
Nahshon Wright and Kevin Byard deliver a clear message to Bears GM Ryan Poles at 2026 Pro Bowl Games
Chicago's social media team sent Wright and Byard on a scavenger hunt during the league's glorified exhibition. One of the prompts asked the former to "shake hands with someone who [he wishes he could play with]," leading him to the latter.
Sent our Pro Bowlers on a scavenger hunt 🔎 #ProBowlGames pic.twitter.com/cuzfVU2ROR
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) February 2, 2026
Talk about a not-so-subtle hint. While Byard and Wright are headed for the open market in March, the idea of staying in Chicago — together — excites them. They all but put the ball in Poles' court.
"We ain't really got to say too much," Byard stated. "We ain't gone say nothing else."
As things stand, the Bears are over the projected salary cap for next year, so they will need to make moves to comply. Fortunately, they have a clear path to gain over $40 million in payroll relief without cutting a single player. That at least makes retaining Wright and Byard plausible, albeit far from certain.
Per Spotrac's calculated market value, Wright is expected to earn roughly $16.7 million annually over three years in his upcoming contract. Moreover, Byard has a two-year, $15.6 million appraisal. The Bears may be hard-pressed to re-sign one of them at their respective price tags, let alone keep the dynamic duo intact,
Read more: Tom Brady just confirmed what Bears fans already knew about Kyle Monangai
Byard and Wright combined for 15 takeaways in the Bears' breakthrough campaign (12 interceptions, three fumble recoveries). For context, that number was at least eight teams. Their playmaking ability on the back end was a key part of Chicago's success.