Tremaine Edmunds says he chose the Bears so he could be part of the team’s rebuild

When the Chicago Bears signed linebacker Tremaine Edmunds in free agency this offseason, the transaction was met with surprise. General manager Ryan Poles appeared to be a decision-maker who didn’t value big-money linebackers. He traded Roquan Smith to the Baltimore Ravens instead of paying him a lucrative second contract. So fans were caught off guard when Edmunds inked a four-year, $72 million deal with the Bears.

That shock was quickly replaced by awe. The addition of Edmunds to the second level of the Bears’ defense will instantly upgrade a group that struggled in all facets of the game last season.

Tremaine Edmunds started all 74 games he played for the Buffalo Bills since entering the NFL as a first-round pick in 2018. He totaled 565 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and five interceptions over that span. And while his production and playmaking ability are impressive, his leadership off the field has stood out the most since joining the Bears.

Tremaine Edmunds is taking control of Bears’ defense

Edmunds has taken on the role of being the Chicago Bears’ vocal leader on defense. His media sessions have been impressive, it’s easy to understand why his defensive teammates speak glowingly of him. His motivation for signing with the Bears is equally unique.

“I was just excited for the opportunity , man,” Edmunds said. “I’m a guy, I like when the odds are against me, I like when the odds are against us. I feel like individuals make the best moves when you’re underestimated, and I wanted to go to a team where I could be part of a rebuild.

“I can be part of turning this thing around, man. It’s just about knowing there are going to be some thunderstorms sometimes, but you gotta be able to stand through those thunderstorms sometimes long enough to stand through some sunshine one day. Just being a part of that and being a big part of that defense and being a big part of that rebuild, it made me want to be a part of it, for sure.”

Edmunds will get his wish. The Bears are attempting to go from worst (literally) in 2022 to competing for first in the NFC North this year. The turnover within the division should help their cause. So to will the improvements Poles has made up and down Chicago’s roster.

Edmunds is just one of several enhancements the defense received this offseason. He’s joined by fellow linebacker TJ Edwards and defensive end DeMarcus Walker as the big-name free-agent additions. The 2023 NFL Draft saw three of the team’s first four picks committed to defense: Gervon Dexter Sr. (Round 2), Tyrique Stevenson (Round 2), Zacch Pickens (Round 3).

It may take some time for all of the Bears” new pieces to gel. But with a leader like Tremaine Edmunds, a quick turnaround is undoubtedly within the range of outcomes for Chicago this fall.