CHICAGO, IL — After a challenging 3-14 season that left them at the bottom of the NFC North, the Chicago Bears and head coach Mark Miller are determined to turn the page. The team has made waves in free agency with four major signings, adding center Josh Myers, running back Kenneth Gainwell, defensive end Samson Ebukam, and wide receiver John Metchie III to their roster. Each player brings a unique set of skills to a team hungry for improvement on both sides of the ball.
Josh Myers: Solidifying the Offensive Line
The Bears have prioritized bolstering their offensive line by signing 25-year-old center Josh Myers to a four-year deal worth $12.4 million with a $10.8 million bonus. Myers, who played for the Green Bay Packers last season, brings valuable experience and intelligence to the center position. Known for his high football IQ and dependable run-blocking, Myers will play a pivotal role in protecting quarterback Justin Fields and opening up lanes for the running game.
“Myers is the type of player who gives your offense stability,” said Coach Mark Miller. “He’s been in high-pressure situations, and that’s exactly what we need as we rebuild this team.”
Kenneth Gainwell: Versatile Weapon in the Backfield
At just 26 years old, Kenneth Gainwell joins the Bears after a solid campaign with the Philadelphia Eagles. Gainwell signed a three-year deal worth $7.8 million with a $5.7 million bonus. During Season 30, Gainwell demonstrated his dual-threat ability, rushing for 242 yards and three touchdowns on 80 carries while catching 17 passes for 136 yards. His versatility as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield fits perfectly in Chicago’s offensive scheme.
“Adding Gainwell gives us a dynamic playmaker,” said Coach Miller. “His ability to contribute in both phases of the game will make our offense more unpredictable.”
Samson Ebukam: Depth and Pressure on Defense
To address their pass-rushing needs, the Bears signed 30-year-old defensive end Samson Ebukam to a three-year, $14.1 million deal with a $13.5 million bonus. Ebukam played for the Indianapolis Colts last season, recording 17 tackles and 2.5 sacks in nine games. While not a full-time starter, Ebukam is a reliable edge rusher who provides depth and situational pass-rushing ability.
“Samson brings energy and effort every snap,” Miller noted. “He’s a great addition to our defensive front and will help us get after the quarterback.”
John Metchie III: A Rising Star at Wide Receiver
Rounding out the Bears’ free agency haul is 25-year-old wide receiver John Metchie III, signed to a four-year deal worth $10.8 million with a $9.6 million bonus. Metchie spent last season with the Houston Texans, where he showed flashes of brilliance, catching 10 passes for 221 yards and a touchdown in just three games. With his speed and route-running ability, Metchie gives Caleb Williams another weapon to stretch the field.
“John is a young, talented receiver who can take the top off a defense,” said Miller. “We’re excited about what he brings to our passing game.”
A New Era in Chicago
These signings signal the beginning of a new chapter for the Bears. With Myers anchoring the offensive line, Gainwell adding versatility to the backfield, Ebukam bringing depth to the pass rush, and Metchie offering potential at receiver, Chicago is building a more competitive roster.
“It’s all about setting the foundation,” said Coach Miller. “We’ve made some big strides, and we’re just getting started.”
The Bears are focused on climbing out of the NFC North cellar and making noise in a division dominated by the Packers and Lions. With free agency in full swing, Chicago fans have reason to be optimistic about the direction of their team.
Bears are loading up for the 5 win season!