Posted on Feb 25

Bears allow LB Edmunds to seek trade as cap casualty looms

Posted Feb 25, 2026

The Chicago Bears have granted linebacker Tremaine Edmunds permission to seek a trade as he enters the final season of his four-year, $72 million contract.

Why it matters: This development could significantly impact the Bears' roster and salary cap strategy moving forward. By allowing Edmunds to explore trade options, the team aims to create much-needed salary cap flexibility while assessing their defensive needs.

If no trade partner emerges, releasing Edmunds would free up approximately $15 million in cap space, a crucial element as teams prepare for the upcoming season.
The Bears cap situation is critical, especially after a challenging previous season, making strategic moves imperative.

What’s new: Edmunds, who signed with the Bears in 2023, led the team last season with 112 tackles, demonstrating his value on the field despite facing injury setbacks.

His performance included nine passes defended, four interceptions, one sack, and one fumble recovery, illustrating his capability as a versatile linebacker.
Despite missing four games due to a groin injury, Edmunds contributed notably during the playoffs, further showcasing his resilience.

Yes, but: The decision to trade or release Edmunds raises questions about the Bears' overall defensive strategy.

Although Edmunds has consistently recorded over 102 tackles in each of his eight NFL seasons, the team's willingness to part ways suggests a shift in focus for their defensive scheme.
Ryan Poles, the Bears' general manager, hinted at "a lot of different options" regarding key players, indicating ongoing evaluations of the squad's composition.

What to watch: As the Bears navigate this potential transition, keep an eye on how they utilize the salary cap space.

The franchise will need to balance immediate financial concerns with long-term roster building, particularly if they plan to acquire new talent through trades or free agency.
A successful trade for Edmunds could also signal confidence in younger linebackers or alternative defensive strategies that align better with the coaching staff's vision.

The bottom line: Tremaine Edmunds future remains uncertain as he seeks a trade, reflecting broader changes within the Bears' organization.

Whether he remains with the team or finds a new home, the outcome will likely influence both the Bears' immediate plans and their long-term trajectory as they seek to enhance their defensive unit.

Bears allow LB Edmunds to seek trade as cap casualty looms

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 25, 2026

The Chicago Bears have granted linebacker Tremaine Edmunds permission to seek a trade as he enters the final season of his four-year, $72 million contract.

If no trade partner emerges, releasing Edmunds would free up approximately $15 million in cap space, a crucial element as teams prepare for the upcoming season.

The Bears cap situation is critical, especially after a challenging previous season, making strategic moves imperative.

What’s new: Edmunds, who signed with the Bears in 2023, led the team last season with 112 tackles, demonstrating his value on the field despite facing injury setbacks.

His performance included nine passes defended, four interceptions, one sack, and one fumble recovery, illustrating his capability as a versatile linebacker.

Despite missing four games due to a groin injury, Edmunds contributed notably during the playoffs, further showcasing his resilience.

Yes, but: The decision to trade or release Edmunds raises questions about the Bears' overall defensive strategy.

Although Edmunds has consistently recorded over 102 tackles in each of his eight NFL seasons, the team's willingness to part ways suggests a shift in focus for their defensive scheme.

Ryan Poles, the Bears' general manager, hinted at "a lot of different options" regarding key players, indicating ongoing evaluations of the squad's composition.

What to watch: As the Bears navigate this potential transition, keep an eye on how they utilize the salary cap space.

The franchise will need to balance immediate financial concerns with long-term roster building, particularly if they plan to acquire new talent through trades or free agency.

A successful trade for Edmunds could also signal confidence in younger linebackers or alternative defensive strategies that align better with the coaching staff's vision.

The bottom line: Tremaine Edmunds future remains uncertain as he seeks a trade, reflecting broader changes within the Bears' organization.

Whether he remains with the team or finds a new home, the outcome will likely influence both the Bears' immediate plans and their long-term trajectory as they seek to enhance their defensive unit.