The Chicago Bears have reportedly agreed to extend the contract of their general manager, Ryan Poles, through the 2029 NFL season. Alongside this, new head coach Ben Johnson’s contract will also run until 2029, aligning their timelines. Financial details of Poles’ new deal have not been disclosed.
Poles, who joined the Bears in 2022, has faced challenges with the team, posting a 15-36 record over his first three seasons. Despite the rough start, he was brought in to rebuild the struggling franchise and has made significant moves to strengthen the team’s future. Yahoo Sports ranked the Bears 15th in their offseason power rankings following the 2024 NFL season, reflecting an improved outlook.
Last season, after rookie quarterback Caleb Williams endured 68 sacks, Poles revamped the offensive line by signing center Drew Dalman and securing deals for Joe Sunny and Jonah Jackson. He also recruited Ben Johnson, considered one of the best coaching talents in the market and former offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. These acquisitions are expected to bolster the Bears’ chances in 2025.
Poles’ most notable move came in 2023 when he traded for wide receiver DJ Moore from the Carolina Panthers in exchange for the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. The Panthers’ poor 2024 season granted the Bears the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 draft, which was used to bring in Caleb Williams. Additional draft picks from this trade helped the Bears acquire key players like offensive lineman Darnell Wright, cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, punter Tory Taylor, and wide receiver Luther.
Since joining the Bears, Moore has elevated his performance, achieving career-highs with 1,384 receiving yards, eight touchdowns, and 98 catches in 2023. His outstanding play earned him a four-year, $110 million contract extension. However, despite Moore’s success, the team struggled offensively under former offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and head coach Matt Evals.
Fan Take: This contract extension underscores the Bears’ commitment to a long-term rebuild, providing stability at the management and coaching levels. For NFL fans, it’s a signal that the Bears are serious about returning to competitiveness, and their strategic moves could reshape the balance of power in the league in the coming years.
