Bears Free Agency Grades: Analysts Weigh In on Coby Bryant and Devin Bush Deals
Early analysis of the Chicago Bears’ free-agent moves shows strong approval for the Coby Bryant signing, while the Devin Bush deal draws a more cautious grade.
The Chicago Bears have been busy reshaping their defense on Day 1 of 2026 NFL free agency. And outside evaluators are starting to weigh in on the moves.
After Chicago agreed to deals with safety Coby Bryant and linebacker Devin Bush, Bleacher Report offered early grades on the two signings.
The reviews paint an interesting picture: optimism about the Bears’ new safety, with slightly more caution surrounding the linebacker addition.
Why Analysts Like the Coby Bryant Signing
Bryant’s versatility appears to be a major reason the move received strong marks.
During his four seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, Bryant played multiple roles across the secondary. He lined up at cornerback as well as both safety positions. That flexibility allows defensive coordinators to move him around depending on scheme and matchup needs.
The Bears may benefit from that adaptability.
MORE: Grading the Chicago Bears’ 3-Year, $40M Deal With Safety Coby Bryant
Chicago entered the offseason with uncertainty at safety, as both Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker were set to hit free agency. Bryant, who turns 27 this month, gives the team a player capable of stepping into a starting role while still offering positional flexibility.
Bryant's addition earned a B+.
Devin Bush Signing Comes With More Projection
Bush’s evaluation focused less on versatility and more on his career arc.
The former first-round pick entered the NFL with massive expectations after being selected 10th overall in the 2019 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. While he showed flashes early in his career, injuries and inconsistent play prevented him from consistently matching that draft pedigree.
That narrative changed last season.
Playing for the Cleveland Browns in 2025, Bush produced the most impactful year of his career. He finished with 125 tackles, two sacks, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, and two defensive touchdowns.
MORE: Grading the Chicago Bears’ 3-Year, $30M Deal With LB Devin Bush
The performance reminded evaluators of the difference-maker he was projected to become entering the league.
However, analysts still view the signing as something of a projection, betting that Bush can maintain that level of play moving forward.
Bleacher Report gave the move a B-.
What Devin Bush and Coby Bryant Say About Chicago’s Strategy
Taken together, the Bryant and Bush moves reveal a consistent theme in the Bears’ defensive rebuild.
Chicago is targeting players entering their prime who play fast and have yet to reach their pro ceilings.
Bryant brings versatility and stability to the secondary, while Bush offers speed and playmaking ability at linebacker.
As the Bears continue shaping their roster ahead of the 2026 season, these two signings represent important steps toward building a faster, more aggressive defense.
