The Chicago Bears linebacker room is getting a major speed upgrade for 2026. The team cut veteran Tremaine Edmunds to save cap space and signed Devin Bush instead. This move shifts the entire defensive identity toward faster play. Bush brings a three-year, $30 million deal to the unit, but his 2026 cap hit sits at just $5.6 million. That financial flexibility allows the team to build deeper talent around the new starter.
A Speedy Upgrade Over Edmunds
Devin Bush isn’t just a name on a roster; he’s a proven playmaker. Per Windy City Gridiron, Bush was the only linebacker in 2025 to grade above 80 against both the run and in pass coverage. That stat stands out in a league where most players struggle to cover both areas well. The Bears plan to slide him into the weakside spot immediately. His athleticism offers a clear edge over what fans saw from Edmunds last season. This is a calculated risk that pays off with better coverage speed.
Bush brings the speed.
It’s a massive jump in coverage ability for the defense.
Supporting Bush is D’Marco Jackson, who the team re-signed to a two-year, $7.5 million contract. Jackson showed his worth late last year with 37 tackles and an interception in just five games. He even earned NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors for his strong Week 15 showing. The coaching staff likely wants to keep his speed on the field more often this year. A linebacker group that can run with receivers is a nightmare for opposing offenses.
Health Is The Key Variable
T.J. Edwards remains the leader at middle linebacker, but his health is the biggest question mark. He fractured his fibula during the playoff win over the Packers and missed time before that. Edwards relies on his football smarts rather than pure speed, so he must be at 100 percent to succeed. Early reports from OTAs show him working on the field, which is a good sign for camp. As long as he stays healthy, he will start alongside Bush and Jackson.
Can Edwards hold up?
The unit needs him at full strength to function.
The team also has rookie Keyshaun Elliott waiting in the wings after drafting him in the fifth round. Elliott showed great instincts and blitzing ability in college. He might be the future starter at middle linebacker down the line. For now, he needs to excel in the third phase to make the 53-man roster. The Bears are building a room with depth, but the starters must stay on the field.
Sub Packages Will Change The Game
Look for the Bears to use Bush and Jackson together in many defensive subpackages. Edwards might come off the field in passing situations to let the faster guys handle the job. This strategy depends heavily on the offense they face and the down and distance. It gives the defense a way to stay fresh and fast without sacrificing too much run support. The sample size for Jackson was small, but his PFF grade of 83.8 suggests he belongs.
Jack Sanborn also returned on a one-year league minimum deal after his stint in Dallas. He missed 11 games last year with a groin injury, but his experience helps the group. The Bears need him to stay healthy to provide reliable depth. This entire linebacker corps is now built for speed and coverage, not just stopping the run. If the health holds up, this unit could be a strength for the defense.
