It’s been a little less than two months since the Bears hired head coach Ben Johnson and already he’s helped put a stamp on the direction of the organization.
In conjunction with general manager Ryan Poles, the Bears think tank has been hard at work the past week reshaping the roster to help Johnson fulfill his objectives.
In addition to the two trades they made last week, the Bears have agreed to three big signings on the first day of the free agent negotiation period, according to reports.
Five moves, all addressing the trenches, where the Bears were woefully inadequate the past few seasons.
Here’s a little recap of what they’ve accomplished so far in their roster build.
Bears acquire guard Jonah Jackson from the Los Angeles Rams
The Bears traded for offensive guard Jonah Jackson, acquiring him from the Los Angeles Rams. In exchange, the Bears sent a 2025 sixth-round draft pick to the Rams.
This move was a clear effort by the Bears to reinforce their offensive line, particularly to provide better protection for Caleb Williams. The Bears are working hard to build a strong offensive front.
Jackson is a veteran offensive guard who has previous experience with the Detroit Lions when Johnson was with the organization and most recently played for the Rams.
There is hope that Jackson can return to his Pro Bowl form, or at least stay healthy enough to solidify the offensive line.
Bears trade for Chiefs All-Pro guard Joe Thuney
One day after acquiring Jonah Jackson, the Bears made another significant move to strengthen their offensive line by trading for Joe Thuney from the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a 2026 fourth-round draft pick.
This trade bolsters the Bears’ offensive line even further, providing crucial protection for Caleb Williams.
Thuney is a highly regarded, two-time All-Pro guard, bringing considerable experience and skill to the team.
This move, coupled with the acquisition of Jackson, shows a strong push by the Bears to build the trenches and create opportunities for head coach Ben Johnson’s offense to thrive.
Bears sign free agent center Drew Dalman
The Bears completed the rebuild of their interior offensive line by agreeing to terms with free agent center Drew Dalman of the Atlanta Falcons.
Dalman agreed to a three-year, $42 million deal with the Bears, with $28 million guaranteed.
This move addresses a critical need for the Bears, providing stability at the center position. It’s a key part of the Bears’ efforts to protect their quarterback, and also to pave the way for Johnson’s run game, which he heavily uses as well.
Dalman previously played for the Atlanta Falcons and was a highly rated center, and his addition completes a large overhaul of the Bears offensive line.
Bears beef up their defensive line with the addition of defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo
The offensive line wasn’t the only position in need of an upgrade. The Bears have strengthened their defensive line by signing defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo of the Indianapolis Colts.
Odeyingbo has signed a three-year contract with the Bears worth $48 million, with $32 million in guarantees.
He adds depth and pass rushing ability.
Bears solidify defensive line with free agent tackle Grady Jarrett
The Bears have signed defensive tackle Grady Jarrett to a three-year, $43.5 million contract.
Jarrett’s addition strengthens the Bears’ defensive line, and when paired with the signing of defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo, it significantly addresses a weakness from prior seasons.
Jarrett brings veteran experience and proven talent, having been a Pro Bowl player. This signing is part of the Bears emphasis on strengthening the trenches, both offensive and defensive lines.
Jarrett spent 10 seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. He is a highly respected defensive tackle in the NFL.