The Chicago Bears began the free agency period highly active. On Monday, they signed center Drew Dalman, defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, and defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo. Out of the three signings, Jarrett is the most proven, while Dalman and Odeyingbo are young and still have room to improve. That said, some Bears fans questioned giving Odeyingbo a three-year deal worth $48 million.
The 25-year-old pass rusher has yet to be a consistent difference-maker in the NFL. Yet, he possesses all the tools to do so. Gus Bradley, his defensive coordinator in Indianapolis, had nothing but positive things to say about Odeyingbo.
High praise for Dayo Odeyingbo from his former DC Gus Bradley 🙌 pic.twitter.com/FVG9xTlW5K
— Bears on CHSN (@CHSN_Bears) March 11, 2025
Gus Bradley Gives Glowing Praise of Dayo Odeyingbo
"He is an unbelievable person... Tremendous work ethic and tough! Both physically and mentally I can't say enough good things about the man. "Gus Bradley
Bradley's comments about Odeyingbo's character and work ethic should excite Bears fans. With Odeyingbo in the prime of his career at 25 years old, he has all the opportunity to become a stalwart for the Bears' defense. On top of that, it seems like he fits the type of person Ryan Poles looks for in the locker room.
Even though Poles' locker room culture gives some Bears fans pause after last season, it's still important that the culture is good.
On the field, Odeyingbo has recorded 24 sacks, 25 QB hits, 60 QB hurries and 100 QB pressures in four seasons, according to PFF. In 2024, he recorded 42 QB pressures, 13 QB Hits, 25 QB Hurries and four sacks. While his sack production in 2024 wasn't where many expected it, given the contract, the Colts' overall defense wasn't great.
The expectation is that with the Bears' strong secondary, Odeyingbo will be able to exert consistent pressure and finish opposite Montez Sweat. If he is able to accomplish that, the Odeyingbo contract will end up being a steal.