The Chicago Bears have had a busy offseason. When the offseason started, they completely remade their offensive line through a couple of trades and a free agent signing. After giving up a massive number of sacks last year, GM Ryan Poles made a point to protect Caleb Williams. As we approach the NFL Draft, his focus has shifted to locking down members of the young defense. Earlier this week, the team signed Kyler Gordon to a massive three-year deal, and now they have locked up another piece. Linebacker TJ Edwards has been signed to a two-year extension.
Chicago Bears Extend LB TJ Edwards
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports it is a two-year, $20 million deal with $16.6 million guaranteed. The former Philadelphia Eagle has spent the past two years with the Chicago Bears, and it isn’t hard to see why the team wanted to keep him around for a while. He has played in all 34 games, racking up over 100 tackles in back-to-back seasons. The former Wisconsin Badger has also had 6.5 sacks, 20 tackles for loss, four interceptions, and two forced fumbles over the past two seasons.
This is yet another piece of the young, budding defense that Poles has locked down. While the offense has struggled to find its rhythm over the past few seasons, the defense has been stout at times. If they were able to get some offensive support from Williams and company, this team could make some noise in the NFC North.
Final Thoughts
This is a good move for the Chicago Bears. It is a relatively cheap deal for an above-average linebacker. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds make up a formidable duo at the second level. If Edwards can have another solid season, the defense could get back to the level fans of the franchise are used to. Can the Bears make some noise in the NFC this year?
