The 2026 NFL free agency period has brought significant changes to the Chicago Bears, especially in their secondary. With key defensive backs like Jaquan Brisker, Nahshon Wright, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Kevin Byard moving on to new teams, the Bears are facing a major reshuffle in their defensive backfield.
The focus now shifts to who might be the next to leave the team. While defensive coordinator Dennis Allen's unit seems stable for now, Tyrique Stevenson's future with the Bears is uncertain.
Tyrique Stevenson's Uncertain Future
Drafted 56th overall in 2023, Stevenson has experienced a rollercoaster journey with the Bears. Despite a notorious Hail Mary mishap against the Washington Commanders in 2024, he bounced back with a promising 2025 season, sparking hope among Chicago fans.
Injuries limited him to just 13 games last season, where he managed 36 solo tackles, two forced fumbles, and 10 pass breakups. However, his interception numbers have declined since his rookie season, raising questions about his consistency.
While Stevenson wasn't a liability in coverage, he wasn't exactly locking down receivers either. His completion percentage allowed increased from 53.1% to 61.5%, and his yards per catch allowed rose from 13.9 to 15.4. With five penalties on his record, the Bears might be reconsidering his long-term role.
His diminishing role was evident as he averaged just 15 coverage snaps in his last five games, compared to 33.4 in the first nine games before a hip injury.
A Critical Year Ahead
The 2026 season is crucial for Stevenson as he enters a contract year. With the Bears already moving on from players like Wright and Byard, Stevenson will need to exceed expectations to secure his future in Chicago.
Working with DBs coach Al Harris could be beneficial, but if the coaching staff doesn't see further potential, Stevenson's time with the Bears might be limited.
Cap space is another concern. With only $39 million projected for next offseason, the Bears have to make tough decisions, especially with other key players like D'Andre Swift and Caleb Williams needing extensions.
Simply put, Stevenson has little margin for error. He must demonstrate his value as a long-term asset in the Bears' secondary, or he might be the next notable departure from Chicago.