Chicago Bears Countdown to Kickoff: 36 Days with DeAndre Houston-Carson

What looks to be the end of Houston-Carson's career in Chicago

In 2021, the safety was signed to another one-year contract, where he made appearances in 13 of the team's games. With injuries in the secondary, Houston-Carson started three games around the middle of the season. His special team's impact, therefore, took a bit of a hit when he served as a starter (he played every snap on defense thrice during the season), but he finished the season with an impressive 51 tackles, four pass deflections, two fumble recoveries, one of which was returned for a touchdown, and his second career interception.

Last season, Houston-Carson, who was again under a one-year contract, made appearances in all 17 games and logged six defensive starts after the starting safeties Eddie Jackson and Jaquan Brisker sustained substantial injuries. He finished the season with a pass breakup, a forced fumble, 45 total tackles, and an interception on Jalen Hurts during the team's Week 14 bought with the Philadelphia Eagles. He was also again a major contributor on special teams, although his usage in the third phase again decreased once he was moved up to a starter in the secondary.

Currently, Houston-Carson remains a free agent, and a return to the Chicago Bears may be unlikely. The safety played under three separate coaches, but the fact that he has little connection to either Matt Eberflus or Ryan Poles may indicate that the team will not be signing Houston-Carson before the start of the season.

If injuries occur in the secondary and/or the team appears to need help on special team coverage, the Bears can look towards the veteran's help, but it may be more likely for Houston-Carson to hopefully continue his career with a new team. As a strong special teams leader and a versatile defensive back when needed, the William and Mary product can certainly aid in winning at a high level, and it would not be surprising to see him end up on one of the 32 rosters by the time the season is over.