The Chicago Bears are making significant moves as the 2026 NFL season approaches, restructuring contracts for guard Joe Thuney, defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo, and linebacker TJ Edwards, freeing up approximately $17 million in salary cap space. This restructuring was necessary as they were projected to be around $12 million over the salary cap prior to these changes, according to NFL insider Field Yates and Over the Cap.
General manager Ryan Poles is aiming to maximize salary cap flexibility for this season, as the Bears are eyeing a playoff run. Beyond just compliance with the salary cap, the restructuring hints at potential trades, with speculation around interest in players like Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders and Josh Sweat from the Arizona Cardinals. While the Bears might still need to create additional cap space, trading for a top-tier player like Crosby or Sweat could bolster their defensive line.
Should these trades occur, they wouldn’t just be one-year rentals, as the Bears should have ample cap space beyond this season. However, with each team navigating their own landscape, the availability of these players may fluctuate.
As the season approaches, Chicago fans are left wondering if more substantial maneuvers lie ahead, particularly regarding potential acquisitions to enhance their roster further.
