Chicago Bears lose another safety to free agency

March 14, 2026 - 02:41

The Chicago Bears' defensive backfield continues to undergo a significant reshuffle this offseason, with veteran safety Jonathan Owens becoming the latest key contributor to depart via free agency. Owens has reportedly agreed to terms with the Carolina Panthers, marking a notable loss for Chicago's special teams and defensive depth.

Owens' exit is part of a broader trend that has seen the Bears lose three of their top four safeties from the 2023 roster in recent weeks. This exodus creates a considerable void in experience and production within the secondary, putting the team's defensive continuity into question as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The departure places immediate pressure on the Bears' front office to address the position aggressively. While young players on the roster may have an opportunity to step into larger roles, the team is widely expected to be active in both the remaining free agent market and the upcoming NFL Draft to rebuild their safety group. This series of losses represents one of the most pressing challenges for the Bears as they construct their 2024 squad.