The Chicago Bears are entering a pivotal offseason, and while much of the attention has been on the offense and the continued development of Caleb Williams, there’s a major decision looming on the defensive side of the ball-what to do with Jaquan Brisker.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Brisker, who was taken in the second round of the 2022 draft, has done more than just live up to expectations-he’s become a core piece of the Bears’ defense. In just four seasons, he’s racked up 342 tackles, with 214 of those being solo stops.
That’s not just production, that’s presence. In 2025 alone, Brisker posted 93 tackles and broke up eight passes, continuing to show the kind of physicality and instincts that make him a difference-maker on the back end.
And here’s the thing-he’s still just 26 years old. That’s right in the sweet spot: young enough to keep ascending, experienced enough to lead.
The Timing Is Now
Brisker’s rookie deal, worth just under $7.5 million over four years, is up. He’s earned every penny of that contract-and then some.
Now the Bears are at a crossroads. Let him hit the open market, or lock in a homegrown talent before the price tag gets steeper?
With a third of the league navigating salary cap constraints in 2026, the Bears aren’t alone in needing to make tough financial calls. But this one feels more like a no-brainer than a gamble.
Brisker isn’t a luxury add-on or a rotational piece. He’s a starter, a tone-setter, and a player who fits perfectly into what head coach Matt Eberflus wants on defense: physical, smart, and disruptive.
A Shift in Focus
General manager Ryan Poles has spent the last couple of offseasons building around his franchise quarterback. The offensive line, receiving corps, and backfield have all seen upgrades-and it paid off in 2025. Now, it’s time to balance the scales.
With several key defensive players set to hit free agency, the Bears’ secondary could be in for a shake-up. But Brisker gives them a steady hand and a familiar face in a room that might be undergoing change. Continuity matters, especially in the defensive backfield, and Brisker knows the system, the scheme, and the expectations.
Why Let a Pillar Walk?
This is the kind of player you build around, not let walk out the door. Drafting and developing a talent like Brisker takes time, scouting, and a little bit of luck. When it works, you don’t start over-you double down.
He’s not just producing tackles; he’s producing impact. He’s already shown the ability to disrupt passing lanes, step up in run support, and play with the kind of edge that Chicago defenses have historically thrived on.
If the Bears are truly committed to building something sustainable-something that lasts beyond just a flash-in-the-pan playoff run-then Brisker is the kind of player you keep in the fold. He’s entering his prime, and his best football might still be ahead of him.
So yes, the Bears have decisions to make this offseason. But when it comes to Jaquan Brisker, the decision should be clear: pay the man and keep building.