Linebacker Devin Bush is headed to the Chicago Bears on a three-year deal worth up to $30 million, multiple reports say, in a move that signals a hard reset in the middle of Chicago’s defense. The agreement comes right on the heels of the Bears clearing cap space by releasing veteran Tremaine Edmunds and follows Bush’s career year with the Cleveland Browns in 2025. The signing quickly reshapes the Bears’ linebacker room as the team steps into the early free agency window.
Deal details and who reported it
According to NBC Chicago, Bush agreed to a three-year contract worth up to $30 million that includes about $21 million guaranteed. NBC Chicago notes the report originated with ESPN’s Adam Schefter, who cited Bush’s agent Drew Rosenhaus, and the signing landed during the first hours of the NFL negotiation period, right when phones around the league start lighting up.
Bush's 2025 breakout
Per NFL.com, Bush started all 17 games for the Browns in 2025 and posted 123 total tackles, three interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns, two sacks and several tackles for loss. That turnover production, including a long pick-six late in the season, was the key driver of his rising market this offseason and turned him from solid starter into one of the more intriguing defensive signings available.
What this means for the Bears
The Bears cleared room when they released Tremaine Edmunds earlier this month, and Bush is expected to step into a lead role in the middle of Chicago’s defense, according to Sports Illustrated. The addition gives coach Ben Johnson and GM Ryan Poles more speed and coverage ability at linebacker as the franchise tries to build on last season’s progress and tighten up a defense that is clearly being retooled around playmakers.
Looking ahead
If reports hold, Bush will be one of the veteran additions counted on to anchor the Bears’ defense heading into training camp. Chicago’s early free agency activity points to a front office that is prioritizing defenders who can flip the field and change games, setting the stage for a draft that can now focus on filling in around a newly reworked core.
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