Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles had plenty to smile about after the 2025 season. His hard work over four years finally bore fruit as the Bears clinched an 11-6 record, topped the NFC North, and edged out the Packers in the wild card round.
It was a significant leap for a franchise that had been struggling for relevance. With the Bears just an overtime away from the NFC Championship, many expected Poles to make bold moves in the offseason to push the team further.
Surprisingly, the Bears took a more measured approach in free agency. Instead of making flashy signings, they focused on strategic additions like safety Coby Bryant and linebacker Devin Bush, while key players like Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker moved on.
The trade of D.J. Moore and the release of Tremaine Edmunds raised eyebrows, but insiders like Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic have praised this disciplined strategy.
Under head coach Ben Johnson, the Bears had a thrilling season that saw them reach the divisional round. Maintaining success requires more than just talent; it requires smart management.
The Bears have focused on bolstering their interior defensive line and secondary, addressing the loss of several players and dealing with unexpected challenges like the retirement of center Drew Dalman. These are foundational moves that show the Bears are keeping their eyes on sustainable growth.
Ryan Poles seems to have learned from the mistakes of the Washington Commanders. In 2024, the Commanders rode the momentum of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels to a 12-5 record and an NFC Championship appearance.
However, they misjudged their position, believing they were one step away from a title. They went all-in during free agency and the trade market, acquiring veterans like Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel, only to be derailed by injuries and an aging roster, finishing 5-12 the following year.
The Bears are avoiding that pitfall by sticking to a realistic assessment of their team. Despite their playoff appearance, they still had the league’s 29th-ranked defense, a vulnerability masked by turnovers that may not be as frequent in 2026. Poles is addressing these weaknesses by focusing on the draft and targeted signings, like bringing in a promising safety and a linebacker on the rise.
In essence, Poles is playing the long game, building a team that can compete consistently rather than chasing short-term success. It's a strategy that reflects a deep understanding of the team's current position and a commitment to a sustainable future.