Chicago Bears sit roughly $927,762 under the 2025 cap, a razor-thin margin that signals imminent moves to raise operating cash. Cuts like long snapper Scott Daly and returner Devin Duvernay hint at a reshuffling era, while 2026 cap looms as zip—necessitating bonuses proration or asset moves rather than splash signings. Names such as Za'Darius Smith and Micah Parsons appear as aspirational targets, but cap realities and future flexibility temper the optimism. Giants, Falcons, Bills and Texans also tread tight lines, amplifying the stakes for Chicago and fantasy decision-makers.