Chicago Bears Face Tough Roster Decisions in 2025 Offseason
With the 2025 NFL offseason now underway, all 32 teams have begun evaluating their rosters.
For the Chicago Bears, led by first-time head coach Ben Johnson, this could mean a significant roster overhaul. The team has multiple needs, particularly along the offensive and defensive lines. With $63 million in cap space, Chicago has flexibility, but they could free up even more by releasing certain players.
NFL.com’s Matt Okada recently compiled a list of potential cap casualties in the NFC, and two Bears linebackers made the cut.
“The Bears are currently projected to have $63 million in cap space, but they also have a lot of work to do to build around Caleb Williams this offseason,” Okada wrote on February 17.
“That might mean saving money in certain areas to reallocate it where it matters most. As such, middle linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards could be cut considerations.”
Could the Bears Move on From Tremaine Edmunds?
Edmunds, who joined the Bears on a four-year, $72 million deal in 2023 ($50 million guaranteed), carries a $22.4 million cap hit in 2024 and $17.4 million in 2025. If Chicago releases him before the 2025 season, they could save roughly $14.9 million in cap space, factoring in his remaining prorated signing bonus.
However, cutting Edmunds isn’t straightforward.
“Edmunds carries a $17.4 million cap hit, though $13 million of that would remain dead money unless he was designated as a post-June 1 cut,” Okada explained. “In that case, the $6.8 million cap relief wouldn’t take effect until June, limiting its impact on free agency.”
Performance may also play a role in the decision. While Edmunds has been a consistent tackler, with 100+ tackles in each of his seven NFL seasons, his lack of big plays (just 1.0 sack and 8 tackles-for-loss in two years with Chicago) could lead the Bears to reallocate resources elsewhere. Some analysts believe his days in Chicago could be numbered, though it’s far from certain.
Is T.J. Edwards a Cut Candidate?
Edwards has been a fan favorite thanks to his consistent play and team-friendly contract. Given his reliability and the value he provides, an outright release would be unexpected—though a trade could be more plausible.
Signed to a three-year, $19.5 million contract in 2023 ($7.9 million guaranteed), Edwards has a $7 million cap hit in 2025. Cutting him would result in a $1.5 million dead cap charge but free up $5.5 million in cap space.
While the Bears aren’t strapped for cash, they could explore cost-cutting moves to strengthen other areas. However, given Edwards’ affordable contract and solid production, he’s more likely to stay on the roster.
Other Potential Cap Casualties
While Edmunds and Edwards are mentioned as possible cuts, more likely candidates include:
TE Gerald Everett
DE DeMarcus Walker
If Ben Johnson isn’t convinced by either linebacker’s fit in his system, then nothing is off the table. However, at this stage, Edmunds’ contract structure and Edwards’ value make them less likely to be cut compared to other potential cap-saving moves.
