The Chicago Bears are set to enter their first talent-acquisition phase under new head coach Ben Johnson when the 2025 NFL free agency period begins in three weeks. However, before making additions, the front office must determine which players to part ways with—whether that means cutting underperforming veterans or moving on from costly contracts that no longer align with their future plans.
This roster reshaping could even impact a two-year starter on the defensive line, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. As Chicago evaluates its next steps, difficult decisions may be on the horizon.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently identified defensive lineman as a potential cap casualty for the Bears this offseason, noting that releasing him would free up $5.25 million in cap space. Walker has been a consistent presence on Chicago’s defensive line over the past two seasons, starting 29 games and appearing in every contest while averaging 3.5 sacks, eight tackles for loss, and 16 quarterback hits per year.
Known for his inside-out versatility, Walker has played both edge rusher and defensive tackle in Matt Eberflus’ system. However, with the Bears hiring Dennis Allen as their new defensive coordinator under head coach Ben Johnson, a scheme shift isn’t expected, but roster turnover could still impact veterans from the previous regime. Unfortunately for Walker, the timing of this transition may put his future in Chicago in jeopardy.
Walker may have started all 17 games for the Bears in 2024, but with his 31st birthday approaching in September and a contract that’s easy to move on from, his future in Chicago remains uncertain. He carries a $5.92 million cap hit in the final year of his three-year, $21 million deal, yet releasing him would leave behind less than $700,000 in dead money.
His versatility could work in his favor, as the Bears have clear needs at both defensive end and defensive tackle heading into 2025. Keeping a player like Walker, who can fill multiple roles, for under $6 million could be appealing from a depth standpoint. Chicago may also opt to wait and evaluate its offseason acquisitions before making a final decision, as there’s no financial advantage to cutting him now versus later in the summer—unless they need immediate cap relief.