Excitement is building for the Chicago Bears as they continue to stay in the playoff conversation at 4-2. There are also a number of winnable matches in the pipeline, offering a chance to build momentum before the big divisional showdowns in November and December. Confidence is high. That’s largely due to the continued excellent play of their defense. A core part of that is the secondary, headlined by Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker. Unfortunately, this formula will face a problem in the not so distant future.

Byard will turn 32 next year, making his status with the team uncertain. Brisker, meanwhile, is entering the final year of his rookie contract. Normally that wouldn’t be a problem. Just extend it, right? Kyler Gordon also needs a new deal. The Bears have already invested a lot of money in Jaylon Johnson, Montez Sweat and Tremaine Edmunds. They can’t pay everyone. Brisker is also developing a reputation for concussions. He still hasn’t returned from his most recent game against Carolina two weeks ago.

This could explain why team scouts have been showing up at games in recent weeks with the top safety prospects for 2025.