The Chicago Bears are entering the 2026 offseason with clear roster needs—but limited financial flexibility. While many fans hope for splashy signings, the team’s tight salary cap situation means free agency could be more about strategic moves than headline-grabbing deals.
Still, a recent projection from Sports Illustrated analysts Gilberto Manzano and Matt Verderame suggests the Bears could be connected to three specific free agents who might fit their current roster needs.
Whether Chicago can actually afford all three is another question entirely.
A Possible Reunion with Khalil Mack
One of the most intriguing possibilities involves a familiar face.
The projection lists the Bears as a potential landing spot for nine-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Khalil Mack, who could return to Chicago late in his career.
Mack, now 35 years old, is no longer the dominant Defensive Player of the Year candidate he once was. However, he remains a disruptive force capable of contributing as part of a defensive line rotation.
The projected contract? One year for $12 million.
If Mack were willing to accept that type of deal, it could be a surprisingly affordable move for Chicago.
Beyond production, Mack would bring leadership and experience to a defense that continues to develop younger pass rushers. A short-term return could allow him to mentor emerging players while still providing valuable snaps.
But the Bears wouldn’t be alone in pursuing him.
Two other projected landing spots for Mack include the Detroit Lions and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Facing Mack twice a season in Detroit would be an uncomfortable scenario for Chicago fans.
Finding a Replacement for Jaquan Brisker
Another major offseason storyline revolves around the future of safety Jaquan Brisker.
The projection suggests Brisker could leave Chicago and sign elsewhere for approximately two years and $13 million annually.
Given his injury history, particularly multiple concussions that limited his availability in recent seasons, the Bears may hesitate to commit that kind of money.
If Brisker departs, the Bears could look to replace him with Kansas City Chiefs safety Bryan Cook.
Cook, a second-round pick in 2022, has steadily developed into a reliable defensive back. During the most recent season, he recorded 86 tackles and six passes defended, the best numbers of his career.
He also brings valuable experience after playing key roles in the Chiefs’ three consecutive Super Bowl appearances.
The projected deal for Cook is three years worth $15 million, which would provide Chicago with a younger and potentially more durable option in the secondary.
However, competition for Cook could be intense. The Pittsburgh Steelers are also mentioned as a possible destination.
A Defensive Fit in Leo Chenal
The third name linked to Chicago is another Kansas City Chiefs defender: linebacker Leo Chenal.
While Chenal may not be among the most widely discussed free agents, some analysts view him as an underrated defensive piece with significant upside.
The projection suggests he could sign a three-year contract worth $25 million.
Chenal’s appeal lies in his versatility. Though he hasn’t been a full-time starter during his time in Kansas City, he has shown the ability to contribute in multiple areas—including coverage, run defense, and blitzing.
Those skills would make him a natural fit in defensive coordinator Dennis Allen’s scheme, particularly as a weakside linebacker capable of attacking the backfield.
Some analysts even believe Chenal’s physical style and athletic range could allow him to eventually develop into a three-down linebacker.
Reality Check: The Cap Problem
While each of these potential signings makes sense individually, there is one major obstacle: the Bears’ financial situation.
Chicago must carefully manage its cap space as it prepares for major future extensions for cornerstone players like Caleb Williams and Darnell Wright.
Because of those looming contracts, the front office is unlikely to aggressively restructure deals or commit massive long-term money to veterans right now.
That means the Bears may ultimately pursue only one or two strategic signings instead of all three projected targets.
Still, Chicago understands that roster improvement remains essential.
Even modest additions—particularly experienced defenders or versatile role players—could help strengthen a team that continues to push toward becoming a serious contender in the NFC.
And if the Bears somehow managed to land all three projected free agents?
That would turn a quiet offseason into one of the most surprising developments in the league.
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