Three Veteran Additions That Could Instantly Upgrade the Bears 2026 Roster
The Chicago Bears enter the 2026 season with plenty of young talent, but there are still several holes on the roster that need to be addressed. After a breakout 2025 campaign, the front office has focused on finding ways to improve both the offense and defense. While developing younger players remains important, adding proven veterans could help accelerate the team’s progress. Several experienced free agents remain available and could make an immediate impact in Chicago. In particular, three targets could instantly elevate the team in 2026.
Deebo Samuel
The Bears' offense has undergone numerous changes as they prepare for the 2026 season. The offseason started with the loss of D.J. Moore, as the team traded the veteran receiver to the Buffalo Bills. Unfortunately, it was a much-needed move as Chicago needed to free up cap space. They do have plenty of young talent that can step up, but that may be counting on too much growth in one year. This puts the team in need of help for 2026, and Deebo Samuel could be a perfect fit. Samuel will be entering his eighth career season. He previously spent six years with the San Francisco 49ers before being traded to the Washington Commanders last offseason. In his career, he has recorded 406 catches, 5,519 yards, and 27 touchdowns. His dual-threat ability has been clear as he has 219 carries for 1,218 yards and 21 touchdowns. This would make him a perfect replacement for Moore, as he can play all over the field. In addition to his skill, the 30-year-old is reliable and does a good job at staying on the field. His skill has declined as he has gotten older, but the former second-round pick would still be a valuable veteran piece to boost the offense.
Taylor Decker
Staying on the offensive side of the ball, the Bears have an interesting decision to make at left tackle. Much of the focus has been on looking internally to see who can step up and become the starter, but they have still been heavily rumored to sign Taylor Decker. The 32-year-old has spent 10 seasons with the Detroit Lions, which means he has familiarity with Ben Johnson's offense. Decker has been reliable and brings plenty of experience, with a total of 140 games in his career. The former first-round pick may have too high a price tag, which could be a reason that he has not signed with anyone yet. He may no longer be an elite option, but he could still help stabilize the offensive line. Additionally, the former Lion could serve as a good mentor for some of the younger options on the team. The buzz surrounding a move to Chicago died down, but it is still a possibility to keep an eye on as the 2026 season gets closer.
Cameron Jordan
Another name that has been linked to the Bears for nearly the entire offseason is Cameron Jordan. The defensive line remains one of the biggest issues for Chicago, as they have not added any real help this offseason. Jordan has had a historic career, as he has a total of 132 sacks and 763 tackles. The star defensive end has also shown no signs of slowing down. This past season, he had 10.5 sacks and a total of 47 tackles. The former first-round pick could become a great partner in the pass rush department for Montez Sweat. His experience is very needed for a defense that is full of young talent. Additionally, Jordan played under Dennis Allen during their time on the New Orleans Saints. This familiarity with the system allows him to become an instant fit in Chicago. The 36-year-old is not going to be a long-term solution. However, signing him makes perfect sense to improve the defense in 2026.
These veteran additions could give the Bears the experience and leadership they currently lack on both sides of the ball. Samuel would provide a versatile weapon to help replace the production lost with Moore’s departure. Decker could stabilize the offensive line while also bringing valuable familiarity with Ben Johnson’s system. Jordan would instantly improve the pass rush and add proven leadership to a young defense. If Chicago wants to build on a successful season, then adding experienced veterans like these could be the key to taking the next step.
