The Chicago Bears were named the early 2025 free agency winners.

The Chicago Bears have been widely recognized as early winners in the 2025 NFL free agency period, thanks to a series of strategic acquisitions aimed at strengthening both their offensive and defensive lines. These moves reflect the team’s commitment to building a more competitive roster under the guidance of new head coach Ben Johnson.

Revamping the Offensive Line

One of the Bears’ primary objectives this offseason was to enhance their offensive line, a unit that struggled significantly in the previous season, allowing an NFL-high 68 sacks in 2024.

To address this critical issue, the Bears executed several key transactions:

• Joe Thuney (Guard): Acquired from the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a 2026 fourth-round pick, Thuney brings a wealth of experience and excellence to Chicago. He has been a model of consistency, having missed only two starts over his nine-year NFL career and earning back-to-back first-team All-Pro honors. Thuney led the league in pass block win rate among guards in every season since 2021, making him a substantial upgrade at left guard.

  espn.co.uk

• Jonah Jackson (Guard): The Bears traded a 2025 sixth-round pick to the Los Angeles Rams to acquire Jackson, who reunites with Coach Johnson from their time together in Detroit. Jackson’s versatility, having played both guard positions and center, provides the Bears with valuable flexibility on the offensive line. Despite a shoulder injury limiting him to four games in 2024, Jackson posted a career-high 94.7% pass block win rate, indicating his potential impact when healthy.

  espn.co.uk

• Drew Dalman (Center): In free agency, the Bears signed Dalman to a three-year, $42 million contract, with $28 million guaranteed. Dalman was considered the top center available, having started 40 games over the past three seasons with a 95.1% pass block win rate in 2024. His proficiency as a run blocker aligns well with Coach Johnson’s offensive philosophy, aiming to establish a dominant and physical presence in the trenches.

  abc7chicago.com

These additions have transformed the Bears’ interior offensive line into a formidable unit, earning them the moniker “the new Monsters of the Midway.”

This revamped line is expected to provide better protection for quarterback Caleb Williams and create more opportunities in the running game.

Bolstering the Defensive Front

The Bears also focused on enhancing their defensive line to improve their pass rush and run defense:

• Dayo Odeyingbo (Defensive End): Chicago signed Odeyingbo to a three-year, $48 million contract, with $32 million guaranteed. At 26, Odeyingbo fits the prototype for defensive ends in Coach Johnson’s scheme, offering flexibility to play both on the edge and as an interior pass rusher. His length and size allow him to match up effectively against various offensive linemen, adding a versatile weapon to the Bears’ defensive arsenal.

  abc7chicago.com

• Grady Jarrett (Defensive Tackle): The Bears secured Jarrett on a three-year, $43.5 million deal, with $28.5 million guaranteed. A two-time Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro, Jarrett brings veteran experience and proven pass-rushing ability from the interior. Despite being 32 and recovering from a previous ACL injury, Jarrett’s leadership and skill set are expected to bolster the Bears’ defensive front.

  abc7chicago.com

Strategic Vision and Future Outlook

Under the leadership of General Manager Ryan Poles and Coach Ben Johnson, the Bears have demonstrated a clear strategy focused on strengthening the team’s core through targeted acquisitions. By investing heavily in the trenches, they aim to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, a fundamental aspect of competitive football.

These offseason moves have not only addressed immediate needs but have also positioned the Bears favorably for the upcoming NFL Draft. Holding the 10th, 39th, and 41st picks, Chicago has the flexibility to further enhance their roster, potentially targeting tackle positions or other areas to complement their recent acquisitions.

The Bears’ proactive approach in free agency has garnered positive attention across the league, with analysts and fans alike acknowledging the team’s efforts to build a more formidable and balanced roster. As the 2025 season approaches, expectations are high for Chicago to translate these offseason victories into on-field success.