(670 The Score) New Bears head coach Ben Johnson is plenty familiar with his team’s defense.
In serving as the Lions’ offensive coordinator for the last three seasons, Johnson had to scheme against the Bears’ defense. In doing so, he gained a respect for much of Chicago’s defensive personnel. In particular, the team’s linebacker tandem made a strong impression.
Johnson sees veteran linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards as key parts of the Bears’ defensive identity.
“The two linebackers are excellent ballplayers,” Johnson said as he evaluated the Bears’ defense. “They're quick to diagnose and react.”
The Bears have plenty of needs to address this offseason, but linebacker is a position of stability. The hope to improve there will come from within.
Editor's note: This is the latest installment of our Bears offseason outlook series. You can read the previous breakdowns by clicking the links below.
Quarterback
Running back
Wide receiver
Tight end
Offensive line
Defensive line
Who’s back: Tremaine Edmunds (27), T.J. Edwards (29), Noah Sewell (23), Carl Jones Jr. (24) and Swayze Bozeman (27).
Free agents: Jack Sanborn (24) and Amen Ogbongbemiga (26).
In the 2023 offseason, the Bears made a significant investment in their defense by signing Edmunds and Edwards in free agency.
Edmunds has recorded 223 combined tackles in 32 games across his two years in Chicago, but his performance has also left more to be desired halfway through his four-year, $72-million contract.
Edwards has outperformed his three-year, $19.5-million contract. He’s a candidate to land a contract extension in the coming months prior to hitting free agency next offseason.
The Bears have a decision to make with their third linebacker, Sanborn, who's set to be a restricted free agent in March. The Bears can either sign Sanborn or allow him to land an offer sheet from another team, after which Chicago would have the chance to match to retain him.
What’s next?
While Edmunds and Edwards are entrenched in starting roles, the Bears need to re-evaluate their linebacker depth this offseason. New defensive coordinator Dennis Allen will certainly have his say in that along with special teams coordinator Richard Hightower.
The Bears should have interest in re-signing Sanborn, who has played in 48 games and made 19 starts in Chicago across the last three years. Sanborn is a valuable player in the base 4-3 scheme and a reliable fill-in for either Edmunds or Edwards. He’s also a key figure on special teams.
Sewell has underwhelmed during his two years with the Bears and will have a fight on his hands to earn a roster spot. The addition of Bozeman, who signed last week, adds more competition at the position.
Prediction: Edwards earns Pro Bowl honors in 2025
Edwards has racked up 284 combined tackles, 6.5 sacks and four interceptions in two seasons with the Bears, and he'll be a key figure in Allen’s defensive plans.
Look for Edwards to have a strong season once again and then earn Pro Bowl honors for the first time in his career.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.