As Wright’s breakout season concluded, he became eligible for a lucrative extension given his status as a 2023 first-round pick (No. 10 overall). ESPN’s Courtney Cronin reported on June 24 that the Bears and Wright’s representatives are pushing to finalize an extension before the start of training camp, which typically marks a period when the club has secured new deals in recent years. Cronin noted that the Bears would like to complete an agreement with the 2023 first-rounder ahead of camp, a timeline the club previously followed with players like Cole Kmet (2023) and DJ Moore (2024).
Wright’s performance has justified the early expectations surrounding him. While he initially faced the challenge of adjusting to the NFL pace in his rookie season, he improved markedly in his second and third years, ranking among Pro Football Focus’ highest-graded run-blockers at right tackle. His progress in pass protection was more gradual, but he recorded only three sacks allowed in 2025. Wright’s durability has also been notable; he surpassed 1,000 offensive snaps in each of his first three seasons, persevering through injuries, including playing most of 2025 with a brace for a torn UCL in his right elbow.
The Bears’ investment in Wright aligns with his role as a foundational piece on the offensive line. While contract figures are not disclosed publicly, market indicators suggest that Wright could command a premium, potentially exceeding $20 million annually based on current right-tackle deals. A recent benchmark is Zach Tom’s extension with the Green Bay Packers: a four-year, $88 million contract with a $30.2 million signing bonus, which positioned Tom among the top-paid players at his position. Other veteran right tackles command at least $22 million per year on their deals, with players like Penei Sewell (though transitioning to left tackle in 2026) and Brian O’Neill among the higher earners in the market.
For Chicago, securing Wright’s services long term would require balancing the extension with the team’s broader offseason plans, including considerations around quarterback Caleb Williams’ potential contract and the Bears’ overall salary structure. The Bears will need to structure a multi-year deal that fits their cap space while recognizing Wright’s impact as a run-blocking anchor and a dependable presence in pass protection.
In summary, Wright has established himself as a top-tier right tackle and a core component of Chicago’s offensive plan. The ongoing extension discussions aim to lock in his services before the 2026 training camp, reflecting both his performance trajectory and the market dynamics for top-tier edge blockers. As negotiations progress, all eyes will be on the final terms and how they shape the Bears’ protection strategy for years to come.
