Ryan Poles just wrapped up a week that could quietly shape the trajectory of the Chicago Bears' offseason-and maybe even their long-term rebuild.
First, there was the unexpected shakeup in the NFC North. With the Minnesota Vikings parting ways with GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, Poles suddenly finds himself as the longest-tenured general manager in the division.
That’s a subtle but meaningful shift. For years, the Adofo-Mensah vs.
Poles debate played out in front offices and fan circles alike. Now, with one out of the picture, Poles has a clear runway to continue building his vision in Chicago-without the constant comparisons.
Then came the financial boost. According to a league-wide memo shared by NFL insider Tom Pelissero, the 2026 salary cap is projected to land somewhere between $301.2 million and $305.7 million per team.
That’s a massive leap from last year’s $279.2 million figure-and nearly $100 million more than the $208.2 million cap just four seasons ago. For a team like the Bears, who are currently $10.6 million over the cap (per Spotrac), that extra breathing room couldn’t come at a better time.
Let’s break this down: Chicago ranks 26th in the league in available cap space. That’s not exactly where you want to be heading into a pivotal offseason. But the projected $20 million bump gives Poles and his front office a chance to get back above water-and potentially retain some key pieces.
Among the names to watch: veteran safety Kevin Byard, whose market value hovers around $7 million annually, and Jaquan Brisker, a young defensive anchor projected to command roughly $10 million per year. Both are important to the identity of a defense that’s taken major strides.
Then there’s Nahshon Wright, a Pro Bowl corner who led the league in turnovers. His price tag?
An estimated $16 million per year. That’s a steep ask, and it may still be out of reach, but the new cap space keeps the door cracked open-at least for conversation.
Of course, creating space isn’t just about the cap going up. It’s also about tough decisions.
Players like D’Andre Swift and DJ Moore could be on the trade or release radar if the Bears decide they need to clear more room. Neither move would be easy-Moore in particular has been a reliable weapon-but if Poles wants to stay aggressive in reshaping the roster, those are the types of calls that come with the job.
The good news? Chicago isn’t in scramble mode.
The Bears have laid a solid foundation over the last two years through smart drafting and calculated moves. This offseason is less about plugging holes and more about building on that progress.
With a bigger budget and fewer distractions in the division, Poles is in position to make some noise-and the fan base is ready to see him keep proving why he’s one of the league’s most quietly effective GMs.
Bottom line: The Bears have work to do, but for the first time in a while, they’ve got the resources-and the stability-to do it their way.