Chicago Bears Face Cuts: 7 High-Profile Players at Risk

Chicago Bears are staring down a roster shake‑up that could see seven high‑profile players cut before the 2027 NFL offseason, a move driven by a $45 million cap crunch and a need to reset after a 9‑8 finish that left the team 8th in the NFC on a five‑game winning streak.

Which Bears are on the chopping block?

Veteran safety Eddie Jackson, now 31, has been a tackling machine but his $13 million salary makes him a prime target. Linebacker Roquan Smith, 27, still carries a hefty contract despite a dip in sack numbers last season. Wide receiver Darnell Mooney, 27, posted 73 receptions but his $10 million deal is viewed as overpay. Defensive end Charles Omenihu, 27, struggled with consistency and could be saved for a trade. Tight end Cole Kmet, 26, posted 58 catches but his $12 million tag raises eyebrows. Running back Khalil Herbert, 24, showed flashes but hasn’t cracked 800 yards. Finally, offensive tackle Teven Jenkins, 27, missed time with injuries and carries a $9 million salary.

Why are these cuts likely?

The Bears sit at 9‑8, a respectable record but far from playoff certainty. Their five‑game win streak masks deeper issues on both sides of the ball, and the front office is forced to free up space for the upcoming draft class, which includes a top‑tier edge rusher projected to go in the first round. Salary‑cap analysts note that cutting Jackson and Smith alone would free roughly $23 million, enough to sign at least two impact free agents. Mooney’s contract also sits above the market for his production, making him a logical move if the team wants to invest in younger talent.

How will the cuts affect the Bears’ next game?

The Bears head into a crucial matchup against the Carolina Panthers on 2026‑09‑13. Losing Jackson could weaken the secondary against Panthers’ passing attack, while dropping Smith might thin the pass‑rush, giving Carolina more time to exploit the Bears’ middling run game. Conversely, shedding salary could allow Chicago to sign a veteran cornerback or edge rusher before the game, potentially offsetting the loss. The coaching staff will have to adjust schemes quickly, especially on third‑down situations where both Jackson and Smith have been key.

What’s the broader outlook for Chicago?

If the Bears follow through, they’ll likely enter the 2027 draft with a clearer financial picture and a roster more aligned with a younger, faster identity. The move could also signal a shift toward a more aggressive defensive philosophy under head coach Matt Eberflus, who has hinted at preferring speed over size. However, the gamble carries risk: cutting proven veterans could backfire if the draft class fails to develop quickly. Fans will be watching the Panthers game closely for early signs of how the Bears adapt to a leaner payroll and whether the team can sustain its recent winning streak without the departing players.