The Chicago Bears have seen quite a bit of action ever since free agency began this week. Players like defensive backs Kevin Byard and Nahshon Wright have already left the Windy City in the last few days, leaving voids to be filled, while the Bears have found ways to retain some of their free agents, including offensive lineman Jordan McFadden.
According to CHGO Bears' Adam Hoge, McFadden will be returning to Chicago on a one-year contract for the 2026 season. Even though it's far from the biggest signing that the Bears could make, the importance of the 26-year-old blocker's return might be flying under the radar.
Jordan McFadden Could End Up Being a Bigger Bears Factor
McFadden has been with the Bears ever since the former Los Angeles Charger was claimed off waivers back in January 2025. He was brought on as more of a depth option rather than a notable contributor, illustrated by his playing only 27 snaps (two offensive, 25 special teams) across seven regular-season appearances.
Suddenly, in the NFC Divisional Round, McFadden found himself becoming more important for the Bears.
With Joe Thuney starting at left tackle for the injured Ozzy Trapilo against the L.A. Rams, McFadden was thrust into the starting left guard role. He ended up performing well in the 81 snaps he saw, giving up only two pressures while finishing with 75.5 pass-blocking and 57.9 run-blocking grades on Pro Football Focus.
McFadden hadn't played any notable snaps since 2023, so the fact that he handled the Bears' last-minute request speaks volumes about what he brings to the table. Having said that, his worth to head coach Ben Johnson's staff doesn't end there.
The Bears' left tackle situation is in flux as Trapilo continues to battle back from his season-ending injury. Even though Chicago already has the re-signed Braxton Jones and exclusive rights free agent Theo Benedet in the LT mix, an opportunity to compete could also be given to McFadden, who played 2,140 left tackle snaps during his five-year run at Clemson.
The Spartanburg, SC native also spent 811 snaps at right tackle in college, further opening the door for how the Bears can use him next season.
Versatility and the willingness to step up are two traits that most NFL head coaches value. McFadden has demonstrated both during his brief time in Chicago and his re-signing hints that the Bears feel the same way.
It'll be interesting to see if he can keep displaying those qualities with another offseason in the Windy City under his belt, which would position him to be an even bigger factor in the Bears' offensive line plans for the 2026 campaign.