Last offseason, Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles made securing a contract extension for star cornerback Jaylon Johnson a top priority. Though negotiations took longer than expected, Johnson ultimately signed a four-year deal, solidifying his future with the team.
This offseason presents a different challenge, as multiple players approach the end of their rookie contracts. The key question now is whether any will receive extensions before the 2025 season.
According to Bill Zimmerman of Windy City Gridiron, cornerback Kyler Gordon is the most likely candidate to secure a new deal. His assessment was further supported by Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, who reported Friday that, while there is less urgency compared to Johnson’s situation, an extension for Gordon is expected to be completed in the near future.
Gordon’s Emergence Makes Extension a Logical Move
Since being drafted in the second round three years ago, Gordon has developed into one of the NFL’s premier nickel cornerbacks. His versatility is a major asset—he excels in coverage, is effective against the run, and provides additional value as a blitzer. Opposing quarterbacks have increasingly avoided throwing in his direction, underscoring his impact on the field.
If not for occasional injury setbacks, Gordon might already be in contention for one of the top contracts at his position. Given his performance, he is likely to command at least $10 million per year, if not more, on a new deal.
Other Extension Candidates: Jones and Brisker Face Uncertainty
Beyond Gordon, the contract situations of left tackle Braxton Jones and safety Jaquan Brisker remain uncertain.
- Braxton Jones has shown flashes of reliability at left tackle over the past three seasons, but inconsistencies in his game and multiple injuries in 2024 have raised concerns.
- Jaquan Brisker was a clear candidate for an extension before a severe concussion sidelined him for most of the season, limiting him to just five games.
For now, the Bears are expected to let both players play out the final years of their rookie contracts. If they perform well in 2025, extension discussions could resume at that point.
As the offseason progresses, all signs indicate that Kyler Gordon is the Bears’ primary focus for a new deal, with other decisions likely to be delayed until after the upcoming season.