Insider reveals Chicago Bears next free agent steps after draft

Of those three positions, the need at running back is the most glaring. The Bears were heavily projected to land a running back early in the 2025 NFL Draft, but didn’t actually secure a runner until the seventh-round. As things stand, D’Andre Swift is one again poised to lead Chicago’s running back room.

His debut with the Bears saw him gain 959 yards and six touchdowns on a career-high 253 carries. However, Swift averaged just 3.8 yards per attempt. Johnson is surely looking for more consistency out of his lead running back. While it’s fair to wonder the type of talent Chicago an acquire at this juncture, it’s no secret that the franchise is still in the market for a running back.

Chicago signed pass rusher Dayo Odeyingbo to a three-year, $48 million contract. Coming off of back-to-back 17 quarterback hit campaigns with the Indianapolis Colts, he is expected to bring some extra firepower across the line next to Montez Sweat. But while the pair give the Bears a much stronger defense on paper, Chicago is lacking depth behind them. Former fifth-round pick Austin Booker has tons of potential, but he has minimal experience in the NFL. Adding another proven pass rusher would make the Bears’ defense much scarier.

In terms of safeties, Chicago has their starters for the 2025 season with Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker. However, both are free agents after the season. Furthermore, Byard is entering his age-32 campaign while Brisker has dealt with serious injuries throughout his career. The Bears seem content to open the year with the duo starting, but sooner or later they must consider the future of the safety position. In the short-term, it wouldn’t hurt to add some extra protection should either get hurt.

At least on paper, the 2025 Bears look much better than the 2024 version. But with even more roster tinkering, Johnson can find his perfect fit for his Windy City debut.