Chicago Bears: 5 players who may not return in 2021
By Ryan Heckman
4. Safety Deon Bush
When the Bears re-signed Deon Bush to a 1-year, $1 million contract I was pleasantly surprised. I think some, like myself, had assumed Bush would find his way to a new team where he would not only get more money, but the overwhelming chances to start.
Initially, it appeared as though the Bears were content with Bush starting next to Eddie Jackson for one year. However, after the Houston Texans parted ways with Tashaun Gipson, that quickly changed. The Bears signed Gipson to a 1-year deal as well, and most believe Bush now goes back to the bench.
It is curious to note that Gipson’s contract is only for $700,000. He’ll be making less than Bush, who will likely be his backup.
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Bush will be 27 years old when this season begins, and I have a hard time believing he’ll hang around any longer in Chicago, unless he simply loves being here and is fine without a starting gig. He’s a good enough player and has improved immensely since entering the league, and will start somewhere else in 2021.
The most likely outcome for Chicago’s future at strong safety is through the 2021 Draft, where they’ll hopefully find a long-term running mate for Jackson.