### Chicago Bears Secure Linebacker T.J. Edwards with $20 Million Extension The Chicago Bears have made a significant move to bolster their defense by agreeing to a two-year contract extension with linebacker T.J. Edwards, valued at $20 million. This decision comes on the heels of Edwards' impressive performance last season, where he achieved career-highs in sacks (four) and tackles for loss (12) [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6285815/2025/04/16/tj-edwards-bears-extension]. The extension ensures that Edwards, who has been a consistent starter for the Bears, will remain with the team through the 2027 season, reflecting the franchise's commitment to retaining key defensive players as they aim for a competitive 2025 season under new head coach Ben Johnson [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nfl/article-14622731/chicago-bears-sign-tj-edwards-extension.html]. ### Breakdown of the Contract Extension and Its Implications 1. **Contract Details**: - T.J. Edwards has signed a two-year extension worth $20 million, with $16.6 million fully guaranteed [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/chicago_bears_extend_top_linebacker_to_40m_deal/s1_17081_42062894]. - This extension follows a trend of the Bears locking in key defensive players, including cornerback Kyler Gordon, who recently signed a three-year, $40 million extension [https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bears-sign-kyler-gordon-to-40-million-extension-securing-slot-cornerback-with-record-deal-per-report]. 2. **Player Performance**: - Edwards has started every game for the Bears over the last two seasons, accumulating a total of 284 tackles [https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bears-lb-t-j-edwards-agree-to-20-million-extension-as-chicago-locks-in-another-key-defender-per-report]. - His performance has been characterized by consistent play, making him a vital component of the Bears' defensive strategy [https://www.si.com/nfl/bears/contract-extension-tj-edwards-deal]. 3. **Team Strategy**: - The Bears are focusing on building a strong defensive unit as they prepare for the upcoming season, indicating a strategic shift under the new coaching staff [https://www.clutchpoints.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news-lock-up-key-linebacker-20-million-extension]. - Retaining Edwards is seen as a crucial step in maintaining defensive stability and enhancing the team's competitiveness in the league [https://www.si.com/nfl/bears/news/instant-analysis-chicago-bears-signing-linebacker-tj-edwards-contract-extension]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Contract Figures**: - T.J. Edwards: 2-year extension, $20 million total, $16.6 million guaranteed [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/chicago_bears_extend_top_linebacker_to_40m_deal/s1_17081_42062894]. - Kyler Gordon: 3-year extension, $40 million total, $31.25 million guaranteed [https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bears-sign-kyler-gordon-to-40-million-extension-securing-slot-cornerback-with-record-deal-per-report]. - **Performance Metrics**: - Edwards' last season stats: 4 sacks, 12 tackles for loss, 284 total tackles [https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bears-lb-t-j-edwards-agree-to-20-million-extension-as-chicago-locks-in-another-key-defender-per-report]. ### Conclusion: Strategic Moves for a Competitive Future In summary, the Chicago Bears' decision to extend T.J. Edwards is a strategic move aimed at solidifying their defense as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season. The contract extension not only reflects the team's commitment to retaining key players but also highlights their focus on building a competitive roster under new leadership. 1. **Key Takeaway**: The Bears are investing in their defensive core, with Edwards' extension being a pivotal part of this strategy. 2. **Future Implications**: This move sets a precedent for further extensions and acquisitions as the Bears aim to enhance their performance in the upcoming season. 3. **Overall Impact**: Retaining Edwards and other key players positions the Bears as serious contenders in the league, showcasing a proactive approach to team building [https://www.si.com/nfl/bears/news/instant-analysis-chicago-bears-signing-linebacker-tj-edwards-contract-extension].