The Chicago Bears have done an incredible job of locking up core pieces over the next two seasons. It is impossible to find many concerning pieces that are set to depart at the end of 2025. This is ideal for a young team that has brought in a strong mix of impact veterans under new head coach Ben Johnson.
What the Bears are building isn't going to turn the corner overnight, and having key pieces locked up allows for a high level of continuity. With this in mind, there is only one player who stands out when considering key pieces in line for contract extensions.
Safety Jaquan Brisker is entering the final year of his rookie deal, scheduled to hit free agency next season. It would be a surprise if the Bears don't find a way to retain an important piece in a rebuilt defense. Brisker continually finishes plays and has shown his value as a tackler. This physical style of play isn't without its downsides, as Brisker has dealt with head injuries more than once throughout his tenure in Chicago.
Bears Should Extend Jaquan Brisker's Contract
If you're looking for a reason why the Bears haven't already gotten a deal done, this is the most obvious answer. Having issues with concussions is no small concern; it demands extreme caution in extension talks. Still, Brisker is far too important to let the defender walk away without at least attempting to find a solution.
Chicago deciding against this path is going to result in Brisker cashing in at the end of the 2025 season. Whether this is with the Bears or a team willing to overlook the injury concerns, it is simply a matter of time before the safety gets paid. His upside at the back end of a defense and the intensity he brings are simply too enticing for a team not to take the risk and hand the Chicago safety a deserved contract.
Looking at the biggest question marks moving forward for the franchise, there is an argument that Brisker should be at the top of the list. With more important pieces already locked up, the team must at least consider making offers in an attempt to take away the biggest remaining question.