What Does a Former Seahawks Super Bowl Champion Safety Bring to Chicago in 2026?
The Chicago Bears have begun their offseason with a heavy focus on defense. The signing of defensive tackle Neville Gallimore started the wave. They also signed linebacker Devin Bush to strengthen their linebacker unit. However, their biggest splash so far has been in the safety market. According to Tom Pelissero, the Bears are signing Coby Bryant to a three-year, $40 million deal. Due to the lack of safeties on the roster, this move for Bryant was one that the team desperately needed. It also has a significant impact on the team for the 2026 season.
It is no secret that safety was going to be one of the early moves that Chicago made. Both of their starters this past season, Jaquan Brisker and Kevin Byard, are free agents. However, many figured that Byard would return after his strong season, in which he led the league with seven interceptions. It may not be too much of a surprise, though, since he is 32. The Bears decided to go younger and found themselves a strong replacement.
Bryant was drafted by the Seahawks in the fourth round in 2022 and has spent the last four seasons with the team. One clear reason for this move by Chicago is that he is only 26. Additionally, this past season was his most consistent yet. He forced one fumble and recorded four interceptions, while also having 66 total tackles. His versatility and ability to turn the ball over make him a perfect fit for Dennis Allen's defense. The former fourth-round pick also brings more speed and athleticism to the defense, which was a major focus this offseason.
While the Bears' offseason is far from over yet, it may be hard for a move to top the signing of Bryant as the most important to the team. He fills one of the positions that had the most uncertainty heading into 2026. Despite his young age, he also brings in valuable experience after winning the Super Bowl in 2025. The upgrade in youth, athleticism, and speed should go a long way in helping Chicago fix their defensive issues. If the move pays off, the Bears could look back on this signing as one of the key steps in reshaping their defense for 2026.
