The Chicago Bears kicked off the 2026 NFL free agency period aggressively, targeting their struggling defense by agreeing to three-year contracts with safety Coby Bryant and linebacker Devin Bush. These moves aim to address major weaknesses after a disappointing defensive performance in 2025.

Chicago Bears address defensive struggles after playoff appearance

Despite finishing 11-6 under first-year head coach Ben Johnson and reaching the NFC divisional playoffs, the Chicago Bears ranked 29th in total defense and 23rd in scoring defense league-wide. The unit’s inconsistencies limited the team’s potential in key games. General manager Ryan Poles wasted no time in free agency, adding experienced talent to rebuild the back seven.

Coby Bryant brings Super Bowl pedigree from the Seattle Seahawks

Coby Bryant, 26, joins the Chicago Bears on a three-year, $40 million deal. The former Seattle Seahawks standout was a key piece of their elite defense, which ranked first in points allowed and propelled them to a Super Bowl victory last season.

Bryant’s journey has been eventful. A standout college cornerback at Cincinnati alongside Sauce Gardner, he won the Jim Thorpe Award in 2021 as the nation’s top defensive back. Drafted in the fourth round by Seattle in 2022, he started as a nickelback but dealt with injuries and competition.

He transitioned to safety in 2024, becoming a full-time starter midseason with three interceptions, including a 69-yard pick-six. In 2025, Bryant posted four interceptions, seven passes defended, and four tackles for loss in 15 games before a knee injury sidelined him late. He returned for the playoffs.

Impressed by his adaptability, work ethic, and competitiveness, the Seahawks pushed for an extension, but talks stalled. Bryant now brings ball skills to a Bears secondary that needs playmakers.

Devin Bush provides tackling prowess and leadership

Devin Bush, 27, signs a three-year, $30 million contract with $21 million guaranteed. The former first-round pick (10th overall by Pittsburgh in 2019) has bounced around but found stability recently.

After four seasons with the Steelers, one with Seattle, and two with Cleveland, Bush started all 17 games in 2025 for the Browns. He delivered a career-best 125 tackles and three interceptions, two returned for touchdowns.

Bush offers reliable run defense, coverage ability, and veteran presence to a Bears linebacker group seeking consistency. His production in Cleveland showed he is still a high-impact player.

What these signings mean for the Chicago Bears’ future

These additions signal the Chicago Bears‘ commitment to improving defensively around a promising core. With Johnson leading the charge, Chicago looks poised for another strong season.