This move follows a disappointing 5-12 season, which led to the firing of head coach Matt Eberflus and the hiring of Ben Johnson, the former offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions.

NFL Network was the first to report on the extension of T.J. Edwards, highlighting the Bears' commitment to bolstering their defense.

The 28-year-old linebacker is a local talent from Lake Villa, Illinois, and played for the Philadelphia Eagles from 2019 to 2022 before joining Chicago in 2023.

This extension comes amid a growing trend in the NFL to select older prospects, with 56 players aged 24 or older chosen in the 2024 draft, reflecting a shift in team strategies.

The Chicago Bears have signed linebacker T.J. Edwards to a two-year contract extension worth up to $20 million, securing his services through the 2027 season.

Last season, Edwards recorded 129 total tackles, including 79 solo, and achieved career highs with four sacks and two fumble recoveries.

In his two seasons with the Bears, he has amassed 284 total tackles, including 20 for a loss, along with 6.5 sacks and 14 quarterback hits.

This extension includes $16.6 million fully guaranteed and comes as Edwards was entering the final year of a previous three-year, $19.5 million deal signed ahead of the 2023 season.

The Bears are actively securing their defensive roster, having also signed cornerback Kyler Gordon to a three-year, $30 million contract extension just four days prior to Edwards' deal.

In addition, the team plans to extend cornerback Jaylon Johnson's contract, indicating a focus on retaining defensive talent.

As the Bears prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft, scheduled to start on April 24, 2025, they currently hold the 10th overall pick and are evaluating potential positions to target.

Edwards, who was elected as a captain for the 2024 season, has been a key contributor to the Bears' defense since joining the team.