Bears $52.5 Million Trade Acquisition Named Surprise Cut Candidate

The Chicago Bears traded for veteran offensive lineman Jonah Jackson in March, sending a sixth‑round pick to the L.A. Rams in exchange for his services.

The Bears then extended him for another year at $12.5 million—an indication they view him as at least a short‑term solution at right guard.

But injuries have plagued Johnson throughout his five years in the league, and if the injury bug bites again in 2025, it could spell trouble. Aaron Leming of Windy City Gridiron put together a list of the most logical players the Bears could cut following the 2025 season. Jackson made the short list, which was a bit of a surprise.

“Jackson hasn’t even played a game for the Bears yet, but he received a one-year extension. So, why would he be on this list? Simple. His cap hit,” Leming wrote on June 19, before explaining further.

The Chicago Bears Wouldn’t Cut OL Jonah Jackson, Would They?

GettyJonah Jackson has been named a surprise trade candidate for the Chicago Bears.

 

“At just 28 years old, Jackson should still have a few ‘prime’ years left in the tank,” Leming noted. “Assuming he can stay healthy, he could be valuable to this offensive line for the next few years. Then again, his $25 million cap hit for 2026 might be a non-starter.”

Leming also noted that a post-June 1st release would save the Bears $6.5 million while leaving $10.5 million in dead cap space.

“Money would be the most significant factor in the decision to cut ties,” Leming added. “Still, beyond that, his limited availability in recent years and inconsistent play could also lead the Bears to look for an upgrade at this time next year.”

A major storyline surrounding Jackson’s move to Chicago is his reunion with coach Ben Johnson. The two worked together in Detroit, with Johnson serving as tight ends coach and offensive coordinator while Jackson was there. After one season apart, they’ll reconnect in Chicago, with Jackson part of a revamped Bears offensive line that includes other new starters on the interior in Joe Thuney and Drew Dalman.

Considering his connection with Johnson, it would raise some eyebrows if Jackson was let go just one year after the Bears traded for him. Money likely won’t be the determining factor, though. His health will.

A Look Back at Johnson’s Career Thus Far

Jackson was drafted in the third round (75th overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft by the Lions following standout performances at Rutgers and Ohio State. He immediately stepped into the starting right guard role, starting 16 games as a rookie in a COVID-affected season.

Over his first two years in the league, Jackson started 32 of a possible 33 games, logging over 1,000 snaps in each of season, per PFF. His 2021 campaign was especially impressive, culminating in a Pro Bowl selection.

The 6-foot-4, 311-pound Jackson isn’t one of the league’s best linemen, but he’s decent when it comes to both pass and run blocking. He just needs to stay healthy.

After four years in Detroit, Jackson signed a three‑year deal with the Rams, where head coach Sean McVay attempted to shift him inside to center. Unfortunately, a fractured scapula landed him on injured reserve, and he started just four games all season before ultimately being benched.

His injury concerns and a spotty 2024 are arguably the biggest strikes against him. If he doesn’t regain his 2021–23 form or suffers another injury, Chicago could view his cap savings as too large to justify. There’s always the possibility of taking a cheaper interior linemen in the 2026 draft, as well.

So, while his release would be a surprise, if Jackson doesn’t stay in the Bears’ starting lineup, he’s not immune to getting cut.