The Chicago Bears are gearing up for free agency with a clear focus on strengthening their linebacker corps. Despite clinching their first NFC North title since 2018, the Bears faced challenges in this area.
Tremaine Edmunds didn’t quite live up to his paycheck, T.J. Edwards battled injuries, and Ruben Hyppolite was missing in action.
Clearly, some depth here could be a game-changer for defensive coordinator Dennis Allen’s squad in 2026.
Enter Demario Davis, a seasoned linebacker who played under Allen during their time with the New Orleans Saints from 2018 to 2024. Davis is one of the top free agents available and could potentially reunite with Allen in Chicago. However, before the Bears roll out the welcome mat, they might want to weigh their options carefully.
Davis is a tempting choice for a team looking to win now. Since being drafted by the New York Jets in 2012, he’s amassed 1,536 total tackles and 951 solo tackles over 14 seasons.
Last year, he was still a force for the Saints, tallying 143 total tackles and 64 solo tackles. He’s already expressed his eagerness to return to the NFL, telling Kay Adams on FanDuel TV, “I’m coming back to the NFL.
And I’m excited about that.”
Reuniting with Allen could be a great way for Davis to make his return, especially with the Bears positioned as potential Super Bowl contenders. If Edmunds becomes a cap casualty, Davis could step in as a starter alongside Edwards, while keeping D’Marco Jackson in his effective reserve and special teams role. But there are risks involved.
Davis’s age is a significant factor. At 37, questions about his longevity are natural.
Yet, his performance last season was impressive, with Pro Football Focus giving him an 80.3 overall grade and an 88.9 run defense grade. His pass-rushing ability, however, is limited, with just 13 pressures on 70 snaps last season.
Financially, the Bears have to consider Spotrac’s valuation of Davis at $9.5 million. Releasing Edmunds, who carries a $17.4 million cap hit, would free up space, but if Davis doesn’t deliver, it could be a costly misstep.
Another consideration is whether Jackson is ready to step up, potentially reducing the need for a high-profile starter and allowing the Bears to focus on adding depth instead.
While adding a two-time Pro Bowler like Davis is enticing, the risks may outweigh the rewards. The Bears have some crucial decisions to make as they look to address their linebacker situation for the upcoming season.