Chicago Bears Re-Sign LB D’Marco Jackson After Breakout 2025 Season

The Chicago Bears continued adding depth to their defense by re-signing linebacker D'Marco Jackson to a two-year deal just hours before the 2026 free agency negotiation window was set to open.

Jackson inked a two-year deal worth up to $10 million with $4 million guaranteed.

Jackson joined the Bears during the 2025 season after being claimed off waivers from the New Orleans Saints. While he initially served primarily on special teams, injuries at linebacker created an opportunity for him to step into a larger defensive role.

D'Marco Jackson Earned Opportunity During 2025 Season

Jackson’s most significant moment of the season came when he was asked to start at middle linebacker during a key stretch of games.

MORE: ESPN Questions Chicago Bears’ Garrett Bradbury Trade in New Grade

In Week 12, Jackson took over the defensive play-calling duties and led the Bears with 15 tackles in a win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. His performance helped stabilize the defense during a period when the team was dealing with injuries at linebacker.

He finished the 2025 season with 43 total tackles, one sack, and one interception. Jackson appeared in 16 games and made four starts.

D'Marco Jackson Won Major Award in 2025

Jackson also delivered one of the Bears’ defensive highlights of the season in Week 15 against the Cleveland Browns.

During that game, he recorded his first career sack and interception. The performance earned him NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. He was the first Bears linebacker to win the award since Danny Trevathan in 2018.

Depth Move as Chicago Bears Continue Defensive Reset

Re-signing Jackson is primarily as a depth move. Although there's a chance he could earn a starting role, depending on how 2026 free agency plays out.

The Bears are continuing to reshape their defense this offseason, following several roster changes, including the release of Tremaine Edmunds and uncertainty at multiple starting positions. Keeping Jackson provides Chicago with a linebacker who already understands the defensive system. He's also capable of stepping into a starting role if needed.

At minimum, Jackson offers valuable special teams production and experienced depth at linebacker as the Bears continue building their roster for the 2026 season.