Bears' Offseason: Retaining Stars, Letting Rise

0:00From NFL coverage, this is your March 8th update. The Chicago Bears are deep into a busy offseason after some big changes, including the retirement of Center, Drew Daulman, trading wide receiver DJ, Moore. And releasing linebacker Tremaine Edmonds, they also traded for center-guarred Bradbury, freeing up over $36 million in cap space, heading into free agency. General manager Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson have voids to fill on the roster. The agency starts in just a few days, and the team is eyeing moves at safety, cornerback, and the offensive line. Top free agent safety, Kevin Byard stands out as the priority to keep. He was a team captain, earned first team all pro honors, made the pro bowl, and led the league with seven interceptions last season. Fans and analysts see Byard as key to steadying the secondary, especially with both starting safeties possibly leaving. Meanwhile, younger safety, Jaquan Briskler and cornerback Nashon Wright are predicted

1:00to hit the open market. Briskler bounced back strong after injuries, and Wright had a breakout pro bowl year on a cheap deal. The Bears plan to retain veterans like cornerback CJ, Gardiner Johnson for his edge in leadership, linebacker to Marco Jackson for depth, and safety, Jonathan Owens for versatility on defense and special, teams. Fans of tackle Braxton Jones and defensive lineman Daniel Hardy are likely gone after losing their roles. Overall, it's a mix of holding on to proven leaders while letting rising stars chase bigger paydays. With cap room and needs across the board, polls can make waves to build a stronger squad next year. Thanks to our sponsor for helping bring you this episode, press play, put your head down.