Chicago Bears linebacker Tremaine Edmunds has drawn criticism for his four-year, $72 million contract, with an NFL expert labeling it one of the worst deals entering the 2025 season. With $50 million guaranteed, expectations are high, but his performance thus far has not matched the financial commitment.
Edmunds joined Chicago in 2023 after earning two Pro Bowl selections with the Buffalo Bills. While he has delivered consistent tackle numbers and allowed a passer rating below 90 in coverage, his overall impact has been underwhelming. Pro Football Focus ranked him as the 119th-best linebacker in 2024, raising questions about his value as an elite defensive player.
Chicago hoped Edmunds would transform their defense into a top-tier unit, but the results have fallen short. Despite his physical tools and potential, he has not consistently demonstrated the playmaking ability expected of a highly paid linebacker. His performance has yet to justify the decision to make him the league’s second-highest-paid inside linebacker after Fred Warner.
The silver lining for Chicago is the possibility of financial flexibility after the 2025 season. The team could save $15 million in cap space by cutting Edmunds next offseason, absorbing just $2.4 million in dead money. This looming decision places added pressure on Edmunds to prove his worth in the upcoming season.
NFL Expert Says Chicago Bears Star Tremaine Edmunds Contract is One of the Worst in the League
Edmunds isn’t really living up to the contract he signed with Chicago. This is detailed more in an analysis by Kristopher Knox for Bleacher Report.
Contract Terms: four years, $72 million with $50 million guaranteed
In other words, Edmunds has been good but not great when at his best for the Bears. In return, Chicago is paying the 27-year-old as if he was an All-Pro-level off-ball linebacker.
Among inside ‘backers, only San Francisco standout Fred Warner is earning more annually than Edmunds.
The silver lining here is that Chicago can cut the final year of Edmunds’ deal next offseason and save $15 million in cap space while absorbing just $2.4 million in dead money.
Critics argue that Chicago overpaid for a player who has been good but not great. Edmunds must elevate his game to avoid becoming another example of free-agent spending gone wrong.
As the Bears prepare for the 2025 season, Edmunds faces a pivotal moment in his career. His ability to meet the expectations tied to his contract will play a significant role in shaping the future of Chicago’s defense and his legacy as an NFL linebacker.
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