The Chicago Bears have made significant changes to their defensive lineup following the 2025 NFL Draft, welcoming eight new rookies, including tight end Colston Loveland and defensive tackle Shemar Turner. The starting defense largely remained intact, but some position battles are brewing, particularly at cornerback with Tyrique Stevenson facing competition.

Montez Sweat, despite a disappointing season impacted by injuries, remains a key figure on the defensive front, while new additions like Dayo Odeyingbo and Grady Jarrett aim to bolster the pass rush. Jarrett, a proven leader and former Pro Bowler, will be pivotal in solidifying the defensive line alongside the promising Gervon Dexter. Linebackers T.J. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds continue to be crucial, but both must elevate their performances this season. Cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon are expected to play essential roles, particularly under new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, whose aggressive style could see them thrive.

Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles has made it clear that extending Joe Thuney's contract is a priority as the team navigates the offseason. After rewarding players like Kyler Gordon and T.J. Edwards with contract extensions, Thuney, acquired from the Kansas City Chiefs, is next on Poles' agenda. The four-time Super Bowl winner and two-time All-Pro guard is entering the final year of his deal, and the Bears' investment in him, indicated by the trade of a 2026 fourth-round pick, reflects their intent to secure his services long-term.

Thuney has consistently ranked as one of the top guards in the NFL, boasting the highest pass-blocking grade among his peers since 2021. With the Bears reworking their offensive line by adding fellow guards Jonah Jackson and center Drew Dalman, a two-year extension for Thuney seems likely, ensuring he remains aligned with his new teammates.

The Chicago Bears are gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft, armed with four top-75 picks including the 10th overall. New head coach Ben Johnson is focusing on strengthening the offensive and defensive lines, having made key acquisitions in free agency while extending contracts for critical defensive players like cornerback Kyler Gordon and linebacker T.J. Edwards. The projected 53-man roster is taking shape, with Caleb Williams leading the quarterback room, supported by veteran Case Keenum and rookie Tyson Bagent.

In the backfield, D'Andre Swift is expected to take the lead role, potentially joined by another running back in the draft. The wide receiver corps features DJ Moore and rookie Rome Odunze as starters, supplemented by free agent signings like Olamide Zaccheaus and Devin Duvernay. On defense, the Bears aim to bolster their pass rush with Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo at the helm, supported by a solid defensive line. The safety position is also set with Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker, while the rest of the roster could see shake-ups as the draft approaches.