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Chicago Bears Linked to Multiple Free Agents Ahead of Training Camp

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Jul 8, 2025 9:01 AM ET

With training camp just weeks away, speculation is beginning to swirl around the Chicago Bears' final moves. Teams across the league are locking in rosters, but some gaps remain—and a few familiar names are starting to circulate. While Chicago has addressed key positions through the draft and free agency, whispers suggest they may not be entirely done. There could still be action before the first whistle blows in August.

In his recent mailbag column, NFL insider Albert Breer suggested the Bears might not be finished tweaking the roster just yet. When asked if the team was set at running back and edge rusher, Breer dropped a nugget that’s raised eyebrows in Chicago:

When asked if the team was set at running back and edge rusher, Breer dropped a nugget that’s raised eyebrows in Chicago:

‘So they’ll get a look at D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson at running back, and Montez Sweat on the edges when the pads go on, and then maybe consider guys such as Jamaal Williams at running back or Za’Darius Smith or Matthew Judon as edge rushers.’

Let’s pause there. Judon? Smith? Williams? These aren’t just any names and each brings a connection worth noting.

Chicago reportedly tried to swing a deal for Judon in the past. That smoke never led to fire—but the interest never really cooled.

Za’Darius Smith, meanwhile, is someone Ben Johnson is familiar with from his time in Detroit last season. Smith joined the Lions midseason in 2024 after a trade from Cleveland, giving Johnson a front-row seat to his impact on the defensive line.

Jamaal Williams is another logical link. He played under Johnson in Detroit and brought a reliable presence to the offense. If the Bears are looking for experience and steady production, Williams could be a sensible option.

Bottom line? This isn’t just about filling holes. The Bears are sniffing around names that could tilt games. If any of these links turn real, Chicago’s final 90-man roster might pack more punch than expected.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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