T.J. Edwards, the former undrafted rookie Chicago Bears linebacker, signed a two-year contract extension for up to $20 million. This extension, which will keep him with the team through the 2027 season, was confirmed by a source to ESPN. The local product from Lake Villa, Illinois was picked up by the Bears in 2023, and Edwards has quickly endeared himself to the locker room.
On the field during his two seasons with the Bears, Edwards has shown plenty of what made him an attractive prospect. He’s started a remarkable 284 tackles. His performance speaks for itself with 20 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, making it apparent he’s a play maker on the defensive side of the ball. On top of that, he added 14 QB hits, showcasing his ability to wreak havoc to opposing offenses.
Edwards has the accolades to match his talent. Edwards has achieved acclaim for his leadership prowess, having been elected a captain for the 2024 season. This small recognition serves to celebrate not only his impact on the field but his dedication to the culture and winning the right way that the team has built. At only 28, Edwards still has time to further expand on a career that took the same path he did, starting out as an undrafted free agent.
Prior to coming over to the Bears, Edwards spent the first four seasons of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles. His brief stint in Philadelphia prepared him to break out in a big way last summer. He set career highs by totaling four sacks and 12 tackles for loss. His stellar numbers have proven him as one of the most important figures on the Bears’ defensive front.
The extension only continues to build the Bears’ trust in Edwards as they attempt to build an elite defense over the next several years. Edwards, for his part, has become an integral cog in the team’s machine. For good reason — fans and analysts alike should be interested to see how his role evolves during such a long-term stretch.
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