Where does Chicago stand at safety in the Bears’ 2025 offseason preview?
As the Chicago Bears enter the 2025 offseason, the safety position stands as a focal point for evaluation and potential restructuring. The performances, health statuses, and contractual situations of key players like Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker are central to this assessment. Additionally, the team’s defensive strategy under new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen will influence decisions regarding personnel and depth at safety.
Kevin Byard: Veteran Presence with Considerations
Kevin Byard, who joined the Bears in 2024, brought a wealth of experience and a reputation for ball-hawking skills. In his inaugural season with Chicago, Byard led the team with 130 tackles, marking a career-high and underscoring his involvement in run support. However, this statistic also reflects a broader defensive issue, as high tackle numbers for a safety often indicate deficiencies in the front seven’s performance. At 32, Byard’s age and a noticeable decline in interception production—from 26 in his first seven seasons to just three over the past four years—raise questions about his future role. Financially, releasing Byard could free up $7 million in cap space, a factor the Bears’ management may weigh when considering roster adjustments.
Jaquan Brisker: Talent Tempered by Health Concerns
Jaquan Brisker has demonstrated significant potential since entering the league, showcasing physicality and playmaking abilities. However, his career has been marred by health issues, particularly concussions, which limited him to just five games in the 2024 season. These recurring injuries not only impact Brisker’s availability but also pose long-term health risks. Despite these challenges, Brisker has publicly stated that he has been cleared to return, expressing optimism about resuming his career.
The Bears must carefully monitor his health while considering contingency plans should his availability remain inconsistent.
Depth and Development: Evaluating the Supporting Cast
Beyond the starters, the Bears’ safety depth comprises players like Jonathan Owens, Elijah Hicks, and Alex Cook. Owens, known for his physicality and special teams contributions, provides valuable experience but may not be a long-term solution as a starter. Hicks, entering his third season, has shown flashes of potential, particularly in run support, and could be poised for a more significant role. Cook, having spent time on multiple practice squads, remains an unproven commodity at the NFL level.
The Bears may look to bolster this group through the draft or free agency to ensure adequate depth and competition.
Scheme Fit: Aligning Personnel with Defensive Philosophy
Dennis Allen’s defensive scheme emphasizes versatility and interchangeability among safeties, requiring them to excel in both coverage and run support. This approach necessitates players who are not only physically capable but also possess high football intelligence to adapt to various roles within the defense. Both Byard and Brisker have skill sets that align with these requirements; however, their respective concerns—age and health—necessitate a thorough evaluation to ensure they can meet the demands of Allen’s system.
Strategic Considerations: Balancing Immediate Needs and Future Planning
The Bears’ management faces the challenge of balancing immediate defensive needs with long-term planning. Decisions regarding Byard’s contract and Brisker’s health will significantly impact the team’s strategy. Exploring the free-agent market for younger, versatile safeties or investing in early-round draft picks could provide sustainable solutions. Additionally, fostering internal competition and development among existing players like Hicks could yield positive results. Ultimately, the goal is to assemble a safety unit that not only addresses current vulnerabilities but also aligns with the team’s defensive philosophy and future aspirations.
The Bears’ approach to the safety position this offseason will be pivotal in shaping the defense’s effectiveness in the upcoming season. A comprehensive evaluation of player performances, health statuses, and scheme compatibility will guide the decisions necessary to fortify this critical component of the team’s defense.
