The Chicago Bears' defense got some much-needed upgrades and new additions that should change the way they play in 2026.
One of the biggest signings to the unit is safety Coby Bryant, who signed a three-year, $40 million contract in free agency. Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen talked about what he has seen in Bryant early on with training camp starting.
"I love his play style," Allen said via CHGO. "I think it epitomizes the way that we want to play the game. He plays fast, he plays violent, he's smart, he's instinctive. He just does a lot of really good things. He was an impressive guy to watch on tape, and I think when you watched him on their defense, I thought his play demeanor was contagious. And that's kind of what I'm hoping that he brings. And I believe he will bring that type of mindset, you know, to our team."
Coby Bryant is about to be a difference-maker in this Bears defense
Last season, Byant racked up 66 tackles, seven pass deflections, four tackles for loss, a career-high four interceptions, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery in 15 games with the Seattle Seahawks. During the team's Super Bowl run, he had 10 tackles and two pass deflections.
Bryant is stepping up with Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker out the door in the offseason. Rookie first-round pick Dillon Thieneman will join Bryant in the starting lineup at safety.
The change at the position will give the Bears some more versatility and stronger pass coverage skills on defense. Bryant will be able to make more plays against offensive players in the passing game, while Thieneman can be thrown in the box to stop the run and pressure the quarterback.
One concern is that they may not be able to create as many turnovers as Byard and Brisker did over the years. The Bears lost more than 50% of the turnovers they created from players who were cut or not re-signed, leaving more pressure on Bryant and Thieneman to help in that department.
Read more: Hype train for Bears playmaker is rolling into camp (and Ryan Poles is on board)
Chicago is looking at Bryant to be one of the leaders on this defense and help them after being a bottom-10 unit in 2025. If he shows the same skills he did when the Seahawks won the Super Bowl, there's no reason to believe Bryant can't win a title two years in a row.
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