BREAKING: Bears Announce New Deal for DL Chicago Poached From Packers

The Chicago Bears took a chance on former Packers draft pick Jonathan Ford last December by adding him to their roster. Despite joining the team late in the season (Week 15), Ford made the most of his limited snaps, recording nine tackles and one tackle for loss over 77 defensive plays. His performance provided a boost to Chicago’s defensive front, and now the Bears are bringing him back for the 2025 season.

On Monday, the Bears announced that Ford had officially signed his exclusive rights free agent tender, which was extended to him back in March. According to Over the Cap, he’ll earn a base salary of $1.03 million. Along with Ford, four other players also signed their tenders: Daniel Hardy (DE), Bill Murray (G), and Ameer Speed (CB) as exclusive rights free agents, and Chris Williams (DT) as a restricted free agent.

Originally drafted by the Packers in the seventh round in 2022, Ford never saw regular-season action with Green Bay. A preseason ankle injury in 2023 landed him on injured reserve, derailing his attempt to make the roster. Though he was later activated, the Packers waived him and brought him back to their practice squad, where he stayed until Chicago picked him up for Week 15 against the Vikings.

Heading into 2025, Ford will compete for a spot in a crowded Bears defensive tackle group that already includes Gervon Dexter Sr., Andrew Billings, Chris Williams, and Zacch Pickens. Chicago also added veteran Grady Jarrett in free agency. With the NFL Draft approaching, Ford’s path to a roster spot could become even more difficult if the Bears select another interior lineman.