Continuity remains at the center of the Chicago Bears' mission going into 2026, as they've announced their captains for the season. TJ Edwards joins Caleb Williams, Joe Thuney, Grady Jarrett, and Cairo Santos as the only new captain. Edwards steps into the spot vacated by safety Kevin Byard III. Each one of these players brings a unique skillset to the table, and their experience undoubtedly had a hand in their selection.
Coach Johnson told the media that these captains were voted on by the players. It's very easy to see why these particular players were chosen, because being a team captain is something that extends beyond the stadium. It's something that exists in the locker room and on the practice field.
The Bears' captains represent every phase of the roster
Caleb Williams
It would have been quite a surprise to hear the Bears announce their captains and not hear Caleb Williams' name. The 24 year old quarterback is entering into his third season as the Bears' primary signal caller, and his second under Ben Johnson. Williams has held the captain title since his first season in Chicago. It only makes sense to hold that streak, given that he was the undisputed first overall selection in the draft that season, and only built upon it from there.
Joe Thuney
There aren't many players active in the NFL with as much experience as Thuney. Additionally, there aren't many NFL players , active or not, with as much success as he has. Any offensive line is immediately upgraded when Thuney's name is on it, and that's always been the case since he joined the league back in 2016. Thuney has protected some of the most elite quarterbacks the league has ever seen, and many of their achievements were pushed along by the silent efforts of Thuney. His wealth of knowledge is certainly an advantage for any young player trying to make their way in the NFL.
Grady Jarrett
Jarrett represents the defensive front, where the effort and physicality often set the tone for the defense. He spent his first ten seasons in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons, where many could argue he was the heart of the defense. He was a longtime captain for the Falcons, and he was twice nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. From his community involvement beyond the field to a fierce defender on the line, Jarret is an excellent choice for captain.
TJ Edwards
This isn't the first time Edwards has been selected as one of the Bears' captains. He previously held the spot that was taken by Kevin Byard III, so this is hardly something new to Edwards. He's been a leader on the Bears since he arrived here, and he's a natural choice to fill that role once again. There's no replacing Byard's experience, but there's also no denying Edward's formidable background. With a developing secondary in 2026, Edwards' voice in the room is undoubtedly a large asset.
Cairo Santos
Santos is the lone representative of the special teams group. Often one of the most overlooked, the kicker is easily one of the most essential positions on a team. It's glaringly obvious when a team is having issues with their kicks, and thanks to Santos, the Bears have been steady since 2020. As the first ever Brazilian-born player in the NFL, Santos brings a background and perspective often not seen in the league. His reliability has been exemplary, making him an easy selection as captain.
With the selection of these captains being something voted on by the team, it becomes a representation of the trust that's been built under Ben Johnson's leadership. These captains aren't being chosen simply because they're the bigger names on the team; they're being voted in based on their merit and leadership on the team. By putting forward these names, the Bears hold a structure that maintains the continuity of leadership on the team and maintains a balance of representation.
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