Five-round 2026 NFL mock draft: Bears double down on offense with pair of Round 2 picks The Chicago Bears have strategically focused their draft efforts on bolstering their offensive roster in the 2026 NFL Draft, utilizing their two Round 2 selections to target key positions. This approach reflects the team’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its offensive line and wide receiver corps, which have been identified as critical areas for improvement. The Bears’ draft strategy underscores their intent to address immediate needs while also investing in long-term development. The draft projections highlight the Bears’ emphasis on offensive talent, with their Round 2 picks allocated to players who can immediately contribute to the team’s success. Among the top targets are a pair of junior-level prospects from Clemson and Ohio State, both of whom are expected to bring significant value to the Bears’ offensive line. Additionally, the team has shown interest in a Washington wide receiver, a player with the potential to elevate the Bears’ passing game. These selections align with the team’s broader goal of creating a more dynamic and cohesive offensive unit. The Bears’ decision to prioritize offensive players over defensive options in the Round 2 picks is a departure from their previous draft strategies, which had occasionally leaned toward defensive upgrades. This shift is attributed to the team’s recognition of the need to address weaknesses in their offensive line, which has been a recurring issue in recent seasons. By focusing on offensive talent, the Bears aim to create a more balanced and competitive roster capable of challenging for playoff contention. The draft projections also indicate that the Bears’ offensive strategy will include a mix of experienced players and emerging talents.#washington #chicago_bears #clemson #nfl_draft #ohio_state
Kristin Cavallari Claims She Had 'Soul Contract' With Ex-Husband Jay Cutler Kristin Cavallari, the actress and former reality TV star, has publicly shared her belief that she and her ex-husband Jay Cutler were bound by a "soul contract" and were destined to be together. The 39-year-old star, who was married to the former Chicago Bears quarterback for seven years before their divorce in 2020, discussed her spiritual perspective on their relationship during a segment on her podcast Let’s Be Honest. The conversation was prompted by a listener who asked whether Cavallari and Cutler should attempt to reconcile after their engagement was called off. Cavallari explained that while she logically understood the need to move on from the relationship, her spiritual side led her to believe their bond was preordained. She described the connection as a "crazy pull" that she couldn’t ignore, despite acknowledging that psychologists might label it a "toxic bond." She emphasized that her spiritual beliefs suggested there was a deeper purpose to their relationship, stating, "I think there’s a reason why you’re supposed to be with this person. There’s a lesson. There’s a reason why we’re supposed to be with this person." Cavallari elaborated that she felt their relationship was part of a larger plan, noting that she and Cutler had three children together—Camden, Jason, and Saylor—and that their union was meant to be. She recounted how she and Cutler broke up when they were engaged but later reunited, describing the experience as a "crazy pull" she couldn’t explain. "I think we decided that before we came to Earth," she said, adding that their souls were "supposed to be together." The actress acknowledged the internal conflict between her logical mind and spiritual beliefs.#chicago_bears #jay_cutler #soul_contract #kristin_cavallari #let_s_be_honest
Chicago Bears Add Veteran Defensive Tackle James Lynch The Chicago Bears have signed former Tennessee Titans defensive tackle James Lynch to a one-year contract, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The move adds depth to the team’s defensive line, with Lynch joining Neville Gallimore and Kentavius Street as the third defensive tackle acquired by general manager Ryan Poles during the offseason. Lynch, 27, stands 6 feet 4 inches and weighs 295 pounds. He brings five seasons of NFL experience, having played for the Minnesota Vikings and Titans. Over his career, he has recorded 98 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, seven quarterback hits, and seven tackles for loss in 71 games. His agent, LIFT Sports Management, confirmed the deal to The Insiders, noting Lynch’s status as a veteran addition to the Bears’ defensive line. The Bears’ strategy of targeting rotational players at defensive tackle has seen several signings this offseason. Grady Jarrett, Gervon Dexter Sr., Gallimore, Street, and Lynch now form the team’s options at the position. Gallimore signed a two-year, $12 million deal, while Street’s contract was revealed to be a one-year, $1.48 million agreement. Lynch’s deal is expected to follow a similar structure, offering flexibility for the Bears’ coaching staff. Lynch’s background includes participation in the 2020 NFL Combine, where he partnered with Uplifting Athletes to raise funds for the rare disease community. He entered the league as a fourth-round draft pick of the Vikings in 2020. His arrival strengthens the Bears’ depth but does not address the need for a game-changing interior presence, a priority for the team. The Bears’ draft strategy remains a topic of discussion. While they have added rotational talent through free agency, the need for a standout defensive tackle persists.#chicago_bears #nfl_network #ryan_poles #lif_t_sports_management #james_lynch
Bears to sign DL James Lynch The Chicago Bears are preparing to add a defensive lineman to their roster as they finalize a one-year contract with veteran player James Lynch. The deal, which was confirmed by multiple media outlets, will place Lynch under the Bears’ coaching staff for the upcoming season. Lynch, who has spent the past two seasons with the Tennessee Titans, is set to join the team after appearing in all 34 games for the Titans. During his time with the team, he recorded 45 tackles and 1.5 sacks. The Bears’ decision to bring him on board marks a return to the NFC North for Lynch, a region where he previously played as a member of the Minnesota Vikings. Lynch entered the NFL as a fourth-round draft pick in 2020, showcasing his skills during his tenure with the Vikings. Over his time with the team, he accumulated 53 tackles, two sacks, and a fumble recovery. His experience in the league and familiarity with the NFC North could provide valuable depth to the Bears’ defensive line. The move signals the Bears’ continued efforts to strengthen their defensive unit ahead of the 2026 season. Lynch’s ability to contribute immediately, combined with his track record of playing in all games, positions him as a reliable addition to the roster.#chicago_bears #minnesota_vikings #tennessee_titans #james_lynch #nfc_north
Free agent center Ryan Bates visits Giants The New York Giants extended an invitation to free agent center Ryan Bates for a visit on Monday, as the team looks to add depth to its offensive line. Bates, 29, is entering his third season as a free agent after spending the past two years with the Chicago Bears. The Giants are seeking a reliable backup to starter John Michael Schmitz Jr., who has been a key contributor for the team. Bates began his NFL career in 2019 with the Buffalo Bills, where he spent five seasons. During his time with the Bills, he appeared in 73 games, starting 19 of them. His most productive season came in 2022, when he started 15 games at left guard. After leaving the Bills, Bates was acquired by the Bears in 2024 in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. In his two seasons with the Bears, Bates played in 19 games, starting two of them. However, his tenure with the team was marked by injury challenges. He spent two stints on injured reserve during the 2024 season, first due to shoulder and elbow issues early in the year and later after sustaining a concussion toward the end of the season. Despite these setbacks, Bates has remained a consistent presence on the field when healthy, and his experience could make him an attractive option for the Giants as they prepare for the upcoming season.#buffalo_bills #chicago_bears #new_york_giants #ryan_bates #john_michael_schmitz_jr
Chicago Bears Re-Sign Cornerback Jaylon Jones to One-Year Deal The Chicago Bears have re-signed cornerback Jaylon Jones to a one-year contract, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move comes after the team claimed Jones off waivers in August 2025. Last season, Jones appeared in 15 games, starting one, and recorded 16 tackles along with a forced fumble. The Bears originally signed Jones in 2022 after he went undrafted, and he spent three seasons with the team, making 41 appearances and starting five games. Following the 2024 season, Jones became a free agent and joined the Arizona Cardinals, but he did not make their final roster and returned to Chicago. The Bears’ pass defense struggled during the 2025 season, allowing 227.2 passing yards per game, which ranked 22nd in the NFL. Jones’ re-signing is part of the team’s efforts to strengthen its secondary ahead of the 2026 season. The Bears also added defensive back Coby Bryant and linebacker Devin Bush with three-year deals this week. General manager Ryan Poles highlighted the common thread among the new signings, emphasizing the team’s focus on speed, explosiveness, and leadership. Poles stated, “We wanted to get faster and more explosive, and I know we did that. We want guys that are passionate about football, that play our style and our brand of football, and I know we did that. And then especially the leadership, [we wanted] to continue to enhance our roster so that we can continue to push forward [and] be a championship-caliber team. I know we got better through this phase.” He added that the team’s postseason performance and late-season play underscored the need for quicker coverage, and the new additions addressed that gap. “Watching those guys’ tape, we answered that,” Poles concluded.#chicago_bears #arizona_cardinals #adam_schefter #jaylon_jones #ryan_poles
Bears Re-Signing CB Jaylon Jones The Chicago Bears are re-signing cornerback Jaylon Jones to a one-year contract, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. The move comes after Jones spent the 2025 season with the team, appearing in 15 games and contributing with 16 tackles and a forced fumble. Jones, 28, was initially undrafted in the 2022 NFL Draft after playing college football at Mississippi. He joined the Bears as an undrafted free agent and signed a three-year rookie contract with the team. Following his rookie season, Jones was released by the Bears in 2023 but returned to the organization in 2024. During that time, he signed a one-year, $1.2 million deal with the Arizona Cardinals in free agency. However, he was waived by Arizona during the preseason and subsequently claimed off waivers by the Bears. The Bears’ decision to re-sign Jones appears to be a strategic move to retain his experience and contributions on the defensive backfield. His performance in 2025, despite limited playing time, suggests he remains a valuable asset for the team as they prepare for the 2026 season. Other notable signings in the NFL include the Washington Commanders re-signing guard Chris Paul, the Cleveland Browns adding defensive lineman Kalia Davis on a one-year deal, and the New York Jets retaining safety Andre Cisco. The Pittsburgh Steelers have also signed defensive lineman Sebastian Joseph-Day, while the Detroit Lions have added cornerback Roger McCreary. The Miami Dolphins are reportedly bringing back edge rusher David Ojabo. These signings reflect teams’ efforts to solidify their rosters ahead of the 2026 NFL season, with many focusing on adding depth and experience to their defensive units.#chicago_bears #nfl #adam_schefter #jaylon_jones #2026_nfl_season
Chicago Bears Re-Sign Cornerback Jaylon Jones to One-Year Deal The Chicago Bears finalized a one-year contract with cornerback Jaylon Jones on Wednesday, securing his return to the team after he was released during final roster cuts. The move comes as the Bears wrapped up their free agency period, with most of their defensive backs departing for new teams. Jones, who joined the Bears as an undrafted free agent in 2022, will now compete for a role in the secondary after spending the past two seasons on and off the roster. Jones initially signed with the Bears in 2022 as a special teams player and backup cornerback. During his rookie season, he earned a starting role in four games and became a key contributor on special teams. He remained with the team through the 2024 season but was released ahead of the 2025 season after joining the Arizona Cardinals as a free agent. The Bears claimed him off waivers during final cuts and added him to their active roster. In his second season with the Bears, Jones appeared in 15 games, recording 16 tackles and one forced fumble. He made one start against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 8, showcasing his ability to contribute on defense. The Bears’ decision to re-sign him highlights their focus on retaining depth at the cornerback position, as several other free agent defenders left for new opportunities. The re-signing follows the departures of key defensive backs such as Kevin Byard, Jaquan Brisker, Nahshon Wright, CJ Gardner-Johnson, and Jonathan Owens, who all signed with other teams earlier in the week. Jones and Elijah Hicks are the only defensive backs from the Bears’ 2025 roster who remained with the club. The Bears’ secondary will now rely on a mix of returning players and younger talent to fill the void left by the departing free agents.#chicago_bears #arizona_cardinals #kevin_byard #jaquan_brisker #jaylon_jones
Colts Agree to Terms with DB Jonathan Owens The Indianapolis Colts have finalized a one-year contract with defensive back Jonathan Owens, adding him to their defensive backfield. Owens’ agent, Sunny Shah, confirmed the deal, which will see Owens join the Colts after spending the past two seasons with the Chicago Bears. Owens played in all 17 regular season and playoff games for the Bears during the 2024 season, though his role shifted significantly in 2025. He saw 40 percent of the defensive snaps in 2024, but his playing time was largely focused on special teams in 2025. During that season, Owens recorded 19 tackles on special teams. In his first year with the Bears, he contributed 49 tackles, along with an interception, a forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries. Prior to joining the Bears, Owens played for the Houston Texans and Green Bay Packers. His career has included stints with multiple teams, but his most recent stop was Chicago, where he became a key contributor to the defense. The Colts’ decision to sign Owens suggests they are looking to bolster their secondary, particularly in areas where depth and versatility can provide an advantage. The move comes as the Colts continue to shape their roster ahead of the 2026 season. Owens’ ability to contribute on both defense and special teams makes him a valuable addition, especially in a league where players who can adapt to multiple roles are increasingly sought after. His experience in the NFL, combined with his physical tools, positions him as a potential role player who could step in at key moments during the season. Owens’ signing also reflects the Colts’ strategy of targeting players with proven track records in specific areas.#chicago_bears #indianapolis_colts #jonathan_owens #houston_texas #sunny_shah
Indianapolis Colts Add Veteran Safety Jonathan Owens to Strengthen Depth The Indianapolis Colts have signed veteran free agent Jonathan Owens to bolster their safety depth ahead of the 2026 season. The move comes as the team looks to address a lack of experience at the position following the departure of Nick Cross to the Washington Commanders. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Colts have finalized a one-year contract with Owens, though specific terms have not been disclosed. Owens, a 28-year-old safety, brings versatility and experience to the roster. Over his seven-year NFL career, he has appeared in 82 games, including 35 starts. His journey has included stints with the Houston Texans from 2019 to 2022, followed by a two-year tenure with the Chicago Bears and a single season with the Green Bay Packers. In 2024, his first season with the Bears, Owens played in five games and contributed 427 defensive snaps. Last season, he was primarily utilized on special teams, though he has remained active in that role throughout his career. Owens’ defensive contributions have been most notable in recent years. From 2022 to 2023, he started 28 games, with a majority of his snaps coming as a deep safety—a role previously filled by Cam Bynum. PFF data highlights his experience playing both free safety and in the box, though his primary role has been as a deep coverage player. The Colts’ decision to sign him suggests they see value in his ability to provide depth and flexibility, even if his immediate impact is uncertain. Owens’ career totals include two interceptions, 10 pass deflections, two forced fumbles, and 295 total tackles. While his production has not been consistently high, his durability and adaptability across different defensive schemes make him a potential asset.#chicago_bears #indianapolis_colts #adam_schefter #jonathan_owens #houston_texas
Chicago Bears Lose Another Safety to Free Agency Former Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens has signed a one-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The move marks another loss for the Bears' safety room, which will undergo significant changes for the 2026 season after losing three of its top four safeties, including starters Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker. Despite the departures, the team has secured a top free-agent safety in Coby Bryant from the Seattle Seahawks. The Bears' decision to part ways with Byard and Brisker, along with other safeties, has left their secondary in a state of transition. Bryant's arrival is seen as a strategic move to bolster the team's defensive capabilities. However, the loss of Owens, who was a key player in the team's recent seasons, adds to the uncertainty surrounding the safety position. The team's ability to adapt to these changes will be crucial as they prepare for the upcoming season. The Bears' management has expressed confidence in their ability to rebuild the safety room, emphasizing the importance of finding players who can contribute immediately. With the 2026 season approaching, the focus will be on integrating new talent and ensuring the defense remains competitive. The team's strategy will be closely watched as they navigate this period of transition.#chicago_bears #indianapolis_colts #jonathan_owens #kevin_byard #jaquan_brisker
Seahawks, Josh Jobe Agree to New Deal Cornerback Josh Jobe has finalized a new contract with the Seattle Seahawks, securing his return for the team’s title defense. Multiple reports indicate the deal is a three-year agreement worth $24 million. The move comes after Jobe spent the 2024 season on the Seahawks’ practice squad following his release by the Philadelphia Eagles. Jobe initially entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent from Alabama in 2022, joining the Eagles. After being waived by Philadelphia in 2024, he signed with the Seahawks’ practice squad. During the 2024 season, he appeared in 10 games and transitioned into a starting role in 2025. His performance earned him a prominent spot on the team’s defense. In the 2025 regular season, Jobe recorded 54 tackles, along with an interception and a half-sack. His contributions extended into the postseason, where he played a key role in the Seahawks’ run to the Super Bowl LX title. During the playoffs, he added 11 tackles and a forced fumble, showcasing his impact on both sides of the ball. The Seahawks’ defensive unit has seen other roster changes recently. Safety Coby Bryant has agreed to a deal with the Chicago Bears, leaving a gap in the secondary. Meanwhile, cornerback Riq Woolen remains eligible for free agency, adding uncertainty to the team’s plans. Jobe’s re-signing provides stability to the defense as the Seahawks aim to defend their championship.#philadelphia_eagles #chicago_bears #josh_jobe #seahawks #super_bowl_lx
Lions Signing OL Larry Borom The Detroit Lions have signed veteran offensive lineman Larry Borom to a contract for the 2026 season, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Trade Rumors. Borom, 26, was selected by the Chicago Bears in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Missouri. He signed a four-year, $3.8 million rookie contract with the Bears, which included a base salary of $3.1 million in 2024. After leaving the Bears, Borom joined the Miami Dolphins on a one-year deal in March 2025. He became an unrestricted free agent following the 2025 season. During his time with the Dolphins, Borom appeared in 16 games and started 12 of them. His performance with the team highlighted his potential as a reliable offensive lineman, prompting the Lions to pursue him for the upcoming season. The move adds depth to the Lions' offensive line, which has been a focus area for the team in recent years. Borom’s experience and versatility could provide stability as the club looks to improve its protection for the quarterback and open running lanes for the offense. His signing also reflects the Lions’ strategy to bolster their roster with veteran players who can contribute immediately. Borom’s career trajectory has included several transitions, including his move from the Bears to the Dolphins. His ability to adapt to different systems and maintain consistency on the field has made him an attractive option for teams seeking reliable blocking. With the 2026 season approaching, the Lions’ decision to sign Borom signals a commitment to strengthening their offensive line ahead of the upcoming season.#chicago_bears #miami_dolphins #detroit_lions #nfl_trade_rumors #larry_borom
NFL Free Agency Approaches as Trade Activity Intensifies The NFL news cycle is accelerating as teams prepare for the start of free agency on March 12, with multiple trades and player releases shaping the landscape. With less than a week remaining before the legal tampering period begins on March 9, teams are making strategic moves to adjust to the salary cap, which is set at $301.2 million per club. Among the most significant developments is the reported trade of star wide receiver D.J. Moore from the Chicago Bears to the Buffalo Bills. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Bills will send a 2026 second-round draft pick to the Bears in exchange for Moore, along with a 2026 fifth-round pick. Moore, who struggled under first-year head coach Ben Johnson, posted career lows in catches and receiving yards despite playing all 17 games for the Bears. The Las Vegas Raiders are also expected to release quarterback Geno Smith, barring a trade, to free up $8 million in salary cap space while assuming $18.5 million in dead money. Smith’s lone season with the Raiders was marked by a league-high 17 interceptions, and his performance contributed to the team’s 3-14 record. The move aligns with the Raiders’ efforts to address cap constraints, as they will also reportedly release other veterans, including Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs, Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray, Vikings’ Aaron Jones and Javon Hargrave, and Commanders cornerback Marshon Lattimore. Other notable transactions include the Houston Texans acquiring running back David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions in exchange for offensive lineman Juice Scruggs and draft picks. The Texans also plan to trade starting right tackle Tytus Howard to the Cleveland Browns, who have agreed to a $63 million, three-year extension for Howard.#buffalo_bills #chicago_bears #nfl_free_agency #d_j_moore #ben_johnson
Bills Agree to Acquire Bears WR DJ Moore, Sources Say The Buffalo Bills have reached an agreement to acquire Chicago Bears wide receiver DJ Moore in a trade, according to sources close to the deal. The transaction involves the Bills sending a 2026 second-round draft pick to the Bears in exchange for Moore and a 2026 fifth-round selection. The trade is expected to be finalized once the new NFL league year begins next week. Moore, who turns 29 on April 14, will join the Bills as part of their efforts to bolster their wide receiver corps. The deal includes guaranteed portions of Moore’s contract, with the Bills committing to $15.5 million of his $23.5 million base salary for 2028. His 2026 salary, also $23.5 million, is fully guaranteed, and his 2027 base salary becomes fully guaranteed next week. Moore’s move to Buffalo comes after a season of fluctuating performance with the Bears. During his first year with Chicago in 2023, he had a career year, recording 1,364 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. However, his production dipped in subsequent seasons, partly due to changes in the Bears’ offense, playcallers, and quarterback. In 2024, he led the team with 98 catches for 966 yards, but his role diminished in 2025 as younger players like Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III emerged. The trade also marks a reunion between Moore and Bills head coach Joe Brady, who previously coached him with the Carolina Panthers in 2020 and 2021. Brady, now in his first season with Buffalo, will have the opportunity to implement his offensive strategies with Moore, a player known for his route-running and ability to make big plays. The Bills’ decision to acquire Moore reflects their need for consistency at the wide receiver position.#buffalo_bills #chicago_bears #dj_moore #joe_brady #josh_allen
NFL insider notebook: Maxx Crosby trade buzz grows, plus Kyler Murray's next team and Mike Evans' market The trade market for NFL players is heating up, with Maxx Crosby emerging as a key figure in potential deals. The Raiders’ pass rusher, who has 68 tackles for loss over the past three seasons, is drawing interest from multiple teams, including the Chicago Bears and Dallas Cowboys. While Las Vegas has not shown eagerness to move Crosby this offseason, sources suggest the team is waiting for a trade that would include a first-round pick and additional assets. The Bears are positioned as a strong contender due to their draft capital and flexibility, though the outcome remains uncertain as the new league year begins March 11. Crosby’s contract, a three-year, $109.5 million extension signed in 2023, complicates the trade landscape. His $35.5 million average annual value is below the market peak, but if he plays under his current deal in 2026, it could make him more attractive to teams. A high-ranking source told CBS Sports that Crosby is likely to stay with the Raiders this season, which would sweeten offers for Las Vegas. However, if he demands a raise, the compensation for the Raiders could decrease. Meanwhile, Kyler Murray’s free agency is gaining momentum. The Cardinals’ decision to release Murray, expected to be finalized next week, opens the door for him to sign with a team willing to take on his $1.3 million veteran minimum contract. The Vikings are among the teams rumored to be pursuing Murray, who could challenge J.J. McCarthy for the starting quarterback role. His release also highlights the league’s willingness to move on from players with poor performance, particularly in cold-weather climates. D.J. Moore, the Bears’ wide receiver, is another player in the trade spotlight.#maxx_crosby #chicago_bears #las_vegas #dallas_cowboys #kyler_murray
