One of the few concerns for the Chicago Bears in free agency is whether the team will retain safety Kevin Byard. While Spotrac has the defensive back projected to make a reasonable $7.8 million in free agency, it isn't hard to imagine a potential bidding war pushing past this number and out of Chicago's comfort zone.
During his two seasons in Chicago, Byard has totaled 8 interceptions and offered 141 tackles with a pair of sacks. It has been consistently elite production that leaves little choice but to attempt to pay whatever it takes to lock the safety up for the 2026 season and beyond. However, there will be no shortage of teams with this same intent, pointing to a potentially rocky road when it comes to a needed re-signing.
According to Over The Cap, the Bears are currently sitting with minus -$5.3 million in open cap space. This is a far cry from teams like the Bengals ($53.4 million in open space) or the Rams ( $46.4 million), two teams that clearly could benefit from the addition of Byard as they make a push to contend. While these two teams won't assuredly chase Byard, they are fitting examples of the uphill battle the Bears are currently facing.
Retaining a star player with less cap space than other landing spots that are also contenders puts Chicago in a difficult position. Not an impossible one, but one that clearly puts Byard's possible departure on the table despite his importance to the franchise.
Bears Dealing with Increasing Reality of Losing Kevin Byard in Potential Free Agency Bidding War
So much of what Byard does goes unheralded, with the safety helping cover up mistakes or not hesitating to help push a run into a tackling lane. The defensive back brings an aggressive energy that has clearly impacted Chicago's younger defenders, making his presence valued beyond just the obvious production.
With this in mind, there is no doubt the franchise should fight to retain its defensive star. The concern is their current financial position and whether they can do enough to retain the safety for the 2026 season. There is no shortage of contenders that both need a safety and can likely offer a higher-paid contract due to cap space flexibility.
Fans shouldn't panic yet, but the fact is, the Bears could chase Byard and still not do enough to sign him. If this is the case, it will be interesting to see where the team pivots in free agency or the draft, as limited options at the position only increase the urgency to attempt to retain Byard.