The Chicago Bears had a solid first week of free agency, adding key core pieces that will help the roster heading into the 2026 season.
Signings like Devin Bush and Coby Bryant have completely shifted the way the defense has looked and should bring some new energy to the unit that struggled over a season ago. While there are still some key positions that need to be addressed, they are at least taking a step in the right direction.
Chicago still has plenty of time to fill its roster with more talent, but it has some good players who are ready to take a step in the right direction. There are four top free agent signings, and how they are graded.
Devin Bush, LB (Grade: B)
Bush has been a solid starter in the NFL over the years and is still young as he hits the prime of his NFL career. He is coming off last year's best season of his NFL career with the Cleveland Browns and will only get better under defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. Bush is a good replacement for Tremaine Edmunds after he got released and should be a solid foundation piece for the next three years.
Coby Bryant, S (Grade: B+)
This might be the best move of all the ones the Bears made, as Bryant is a solid starter in the NFL. He can create turnovers while laying out some big hits in the process. After losing Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker in free agency, Bryant is much-needed help and one who is a good start to rebuilding that position.
Neville Gallimore, DT (Grade: C+)
Gallimore is a solid veteran in the NFL and will make for a solid rotational player, but he will not fix the issues that the Bears have on the defensive line. Grady Jarrett struggled last season despite the Bears putting a lot of money into him, and Gervon Dexter is their best pass rusher at tackle, but the team lacks consistency in stopping the run from the middle. Chicago got a nice depth piece with Gallimore, but more needs to be done at the position.
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Kalif Raymond, WR/KR (Grade: B)
Raymond helps the Bears in multiple areas, from offense to special teams. Last season, he scored touchdowns on offense and on returns, which are areas where the Bears need more of. This is an upgrade for Chicago as they get a potential WR3 while also adding some speed on special teams.