Edmunds has been a central figure in Chicago’s defense, offering athleticism in the middle and the ability to match up with tight ends and force turnovers (four interceptions in 2025). As a team captain, he helped steady a defense that battled injuries, contributing to the Bears’ NFC North title run.
The veteran linebacker is entering the final season of a four-year, $72 million contract and would turn 28 in 2026. The Bears could save $15 million by cutting him, which would push their cap deficit from about $17.6 million toward a near-zero balance.
Durability has been a mixed bag, with Edmunds missing four games in 2025, though he played the full 2023 campaign and missed only a couple of games in his first year in Chicago. PFF ranked him 34th among 88 eligible linebackers last season, suggesting he remains above-average by advanced metrics despite the ups and downs.
If Chicago wants to keep Edmunds, restructuring or extending him to reduce his cap hit could be a viable path. An extension could lower his immediate impact on the payroll while preserving his on-field role, rather than a straight cut.
Beyond Edmunds, the Bears face needs at safety and along the defensive line. Chicago holds seven draft picks, including Nos. 25, 57 and 89, and is expected to target pass rush and interior DL help on Days 1 and 2, with secondary depth also in focus given looming free agency for Jaquan Brisker, Kevin Byard and CJ Gardner-Johnson.
Overall, the Bears’ 2026 outlook hinges on balancing cap discipline with defensive improvement. Whether Edmunds remains in Chicago or is moved on will influence how the defense is reshaped through free agency and the upcoming draft.
