Bears 2025 free agency: Chicago’s grades are determined by experts

The Chicago Bears have made significant moves in the 2025 free agency period, focusing on strengthening both their offensive and defensive lines. These strategic acquisitions have been met with varying evaluations from experts. Below is a detailed analysis of each major signing, including expert grades and insights.

1. Drew Dalman, Center

• Contract Details: Three-year, $42 million deal with $28 million guaranteed.

• Analysis: Dalman, 26, has been the starting center for the Atlanta Falcons over the past three seasons. Despite being limited to nine games in 2024 due to injury, he achieved a 95.1% pass block win rate, ranking ninth among centers with at least 500 snaps. His addition addresses a longstanding need for the Bears, providing stability at the center position.

  abc7chicago.com

• Expert Grade: A

  • Rationale: The Bears have struggled to find consistency at center, experimenting with various players in recent years. Dalman’s signing is seen as a decisive move to solidify this critical position, even if it means making him one of the highest-paid centers in the league.
    fox32chicago.com

2. Dayo Odeyingbo, Defensive End

• Contract Details: Three-year, $48 million deal with $32 million guaranteed.

• Analysis: Odeyingbo, 26, brings versatility to the defensive line with his ability to play both on the edge and interior. While his sack numbers were modest in 2024, recording three sacks, he registered 17 quarterback pressures, which would have ranked second on the Bears last season. His physical attributes align with the Bears’ defensive scheme, offering potential for growth alongside established players like Montez Sweat.

  abc7chicago.com

• Expert Grade: B

  • Rationale: The Bears are investing in Odeyingbo’s potential, acknowledging that while his past production may not be stellar, the surrounding talent and defensive setup could facilitate a breakout performance.
    fox32chicago.com

3. Grady Jarrett, Defensive Tackle

• Contract Details: Three-year, $43.5 million deal with $28.5 million guaranteed.

• Analysis: Jarrett, approaching 32, is a seasoned veteran with a decorated career, including two Pro Bowl selections. His experience and leadership are expected to bolster the Bears’ defensive front. However, some concerns arise due to his age and recent performance metrics, as he has not surpassed three sacks in any of the past four seasons.

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• Expert Grades:

  • D- (Matt Verderame, Sports Illustrated): Critics argue that Jarrett’s age and declining sack production make this a questionable investment, suggesting that one-year deals might have been more appropriate at this stage of his career.

    si.com

  • B (FOX 32 Chicago): Supporters highlight Jarrett’s potential to provide leadership and stability to the defensive line, drawing parallels to the impact of former Bears standout Akiem Hicks.

    fox32chicago.com

4. Joe Thuney, Guard

• Acquisition: Traded from the Kansas City Chiefs for a 2026 fourth-round pick.

• Analysis: Thuney, 32, is a highly regarded guard, having achieved back-to-back first-team All-Pro honors. His durability is notable, with only two missed starts over a nine-year career. Thuney’s presence is expected to enhance the offensive line significantly, providing both skill and mentorship.

  abc7chicago.com

• Expert Perspective: While specific grades were not provided, the acquisition is viewed positively, especially considering the relatively low trade cost for a player of Thuney’s caliber.

5. Jonah Jackson, Guard

• Acquisition: Traded from the Los Angeles Rams for a 2025 sixth-round pick.

• Analysis: Jackson, 28, reunites with Bears coach Ben Johnson, having previously worked together in Detroit. His versatility across the interior line offers the Bears flexibility in their offensive line configurations.

  abc7chicago.com

• Expert Perspective: The trade is considered a strategic move to bolster the offensive line depth, with minimal risk given the low trade cost.

6. Olamide Zaccheaus, Wide Receiver

• Contract Details: One-year deal.

• Analysis: Zaccheaus, 27, adds depth to the receiving corps, offering versatility with his ability to play both slot and outside positions. His experience and potential contribution to special teams as a punt returner make this a value-added signing.

  abc7chicago.com

• Expert Perspective: While not a marquee signing, Zaccheaus provides reliable depth and flexibility, enhancing the overall offensive unit.

Overall Assessment of the Bears’ 2025 Free Agency Moves

The Bears have clearly prioritized strengthening their trenches, both offensively and defensively, during the 2025 free agency period. This approach addresses critical weaknesses from the previous season, particularly in protecting quarterback Caleb Williams, who endured a league-high 68 sacks in his rookie year.

Expert Opinions:

• Positive Outlook: Analysts commend the Bears for their aggressive and focused strategy. Kyle Brandt of NFL Network praised the team’s investments, noting that historically, teams that spend significantly in free agency often see substantial improvements in their win-loss records the following season. He emphasized that addressing the offensive and defensive lines is a more effective approach than overemphasizing skill positions.

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• Cautionary Notes: Some experts advise caution, particularly regarding the investment in older players like Grady Jarrett. The concerns revolve around potential declines in performance due to age and past injuries, suggesting that while the immediate impact may be positive, the long-term value