Bears Sign Linebacker Devin Bush to Three-Year, $30 Million Deal

The Chicago Bears have agreed to a three-year, $30 million contract with free agent linebacker Devin Bush, with $21 million guaranteed, according to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter [1]. Bush, 27, joins the Bears after a successful 2025 season with the Cleveland Browns.

Bush’s Career Trajectory

Originally a first-round pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019, Bush spent four seasons in Pittsburgh before playing one season with the Seattle Seahawks in 2023 and then joining the Browns in 2024 [3]. He found his stride in Cleveland, culminating in a breakout 2025 season.

2025 Season Highlights

In 2025, Bush recorded 125 tackles (seven for loss), two sacks, two forced fumbles, and three interceptions for the Browns [1]. Notably, he returned two of his three interceptions for touchdowns and led the league with 164 interception return yards. His performance helped solidify the Browns as a top defensive unit.

Impact on the Bears’ Defense

Bush’s arrival addresses a need for the Bears at linebacker, particularly after the team moved on from Tremaine Edmunds. He will likely play a key role alongside TJ Edwards, who re-signed with the team on a two-year deal earlier in the day [1]. The Bears also re-signed linebacker D’Marco Jackson to a two-year, $7.5 million deal with a potential max value of $10.5 million [1].

Expert Analysis

Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune noted that Bush “adds an element of speed to the middle of the defense” [1]. ESPN rated Bush as their No. 63 overall free agent, highlighting his playmaking ability and athleticism [1].

Looking Ahead

With Edwards, Bush, and Jackson forming the core of the linebacker unit, the Bears are expected to further address the position during the 2026 NFL Draft [1]. The acquisition of Bush is viewed as a significant step in bolstering the Bears’ defense.