Bears Bolster Roster with 9 New Faces in 2026 Offseason Push

The Chicago Bears have added nine new players to their roster as they move into the next phase of their 2026 offseason program, reinforcing their depth ahead of the NFL Draft and training camp. The moves, announced Monday, include a mix of free-agent signings and undrafted rookie invites, signaling general manager Ryan Poles’ continued efforts to reshape the team following a breakout 2025 season under second-year head coach Ben Johnson.

Key Signings and Invites

The most notable addition is offensive lineman Mason Murphy, a highly regarded free agent who brings size and versatility to a Bears offensive line that has undergone significant turnover this offseason. Murphy, a former standout at Ohio State, is expected to compete for a starting role after the Bears lost center Drew Dalman to an unexpected retirement and traded away key contributors like wide receiver DJ Moore.

Alongside Murphy, the Bears have invited eight undrafted rookies to their offseason program, including offensive lineman Josh Kruetz and tight end Cole Turner. These invites reflect the team’s focus on bolstering its trenches, a priority for Johnson and Poles as they aim to build a more balanced offense around third-year quarterback Caleb Williams. Williams, who emerged as one of the NFL’s most clutch performers in 2025, will benefit from the added protection and playmaking options.

Roster Overhaul Continues

The Bears’ roster has undergone significant changes since the end of the 2025 season. In addition to Dalman’s retirement and Moore’s trade, Chicago lost safeties Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker, cornerback Nahshon Wright, and linebacker Tremaine Edmunds in free agency. To address these departures, the team signed safety Coby Bryant, linebacker Devin Bush, and receiver Kalif Raymond, while also acquiring center Garrett Bradbury via trade.

Despite these moves, gaps remain, particularly at wide receiver and in the secondary. The Bears’ running back corps, however, remains a strength, with D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai returning after leading the NFL’s third-best rushing attack in 2025. Roschon Johnson, Brittain Brown, and Deion Hankins provide additional depth at the position.

Draft and Future Moves

With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, the Bears are expected to target playmakers who can complement Williams and the team’s revamped offensive line. Johnson’s vision for the offense has centered on creating a more physical and versatile unit, and the recent additions suggest a continued emphasis on building through the trenches.

The offseason program, which began Monday at Halas Hall, marks the first formal gathering of the team under Johnson’s leadership since the end of the 2025 season. The focus will be on integrating new players, refining schemes, and preparing for the draft, where the Bears hold multiple picks, including a first-round selection acquired in the Moore trade.

What’s Next

The Bears’ roster construction will continue to evolve in the coming weeks, with the draft serving as the next major opportunity to address remaining needs. Poles has emphasized a patient, long-term approach to building the team, and the recent additions reflect a blend of immediate contributors and developmental prospects.

For now, the focus remains on offseason workouts and evaluations, with the goal of turning last year’s playoff-contending roster into a legitimate Super Bowl contender in 2026.