Bears Bring Back Offensive Tackle Before Caleb Williams' 3rd Season

The Chicago Bears made a big statement in 2025 with Caleb Williams as their starting quarterback. The 2024 No. 1 overall pick had a true breakout season and led the team back to the playoffs for the first time in years.

The Bears finished the regular season with an 11-6 record and won the NFC North. Williams played in all 17 games and threw for exactly 3,942 yards with 27 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He also ran for 388 yards and three scores.

His strong play helped the Bears reach the divisional round before they fell short to the Los Angeles Rams. It was the kind of year that showed Williams is ready to be a long-term leader in Chicago.

Following an impressive first season with head coach Ben Johnson, the Bears are hoping to return as serious contenders in 2026 and have been aggressive in the offseason to build a better team around Williams.

After trading veteran WR DJ Moore, the front office brought back several offensive linemen and acquired OL Garrett Bradbury from the New England Patriots.

On Monday, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported more good news. The Bears are picking up the fifth-year option on All-Pro offensive tackle Darnell Wright. The move locks him in through the 2027 season.

The #Bears are picking up the fifth-year option for All-Pro OT Darnell Wright, source says. Locked in for the 2027 season. pic.twitter.com/M00QB9xQOo

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 20, 2026

Wright had a strong 2025 season and earned All-Pro honors. He started every game and protected Williams' blind side while helping open lanes for the run game.

The Bears drafted Wright 10th overall in 2023 out of Tennessee. He has started all 49 games of his career and has grown into one of the league's most reliable tackles.

Having Wright locked in for the next two seasons will be a big help for Caleb Williams. It gives the young quarterback a trusted protector on his left side and more time to make plays.

With the offensive line now stronger and the team healthy around him, Williams can focus on leading the Bears back to the playoffs and beyond and fans in Chicago are excited to see what the third-year quarterback can do next season.

Related: Steelers Make Quarterback Decision After Aaron Rodgers News

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This story was originally published April 20, 2026 at 10:37 AM.