The Chicago Bears extended GM Ryan Poles through 2029, aligning him with coach Ben Johnson and the future built around QB Caleb Williams. Can they win the NFC North?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The Chicago Bears sent a clear message of stability and conviction on Saturday, signing General Manager Ryan Poles to a contract extension through the 2029 season. The move aligns his tenure perfectly with that of new head coach Ben Johnson, cementing the duo responsible for architecting the team's future and putting the full weight of the organization behind their vision.
The Bears are still seeking their first NFC North title since 2018, a drought Poles is now tasked with ending.
By locking in Ryan Poles through 2029, the Bears have eliminated any potential 'lame duck' distractions and fully committed to the architect of their aggressive rebuild. This move is a massive vote of confidence, especially considering the franchise's recent turmoil, which included a 10-game losing streak last season and the subsequent firing of Matt Eberflus. Poles' tenure has been defined by bold moves, none bigger than the 2023 trade with Carolina that netted D.J. Moore and the draft capital that ultimately became quarterback Caleb Williams. This extension signals that ownership believes Poles is the right man to see that blockbuster trade bear fruit.
With his own future secured, Poles was back to his familiar work of shaping the roster's edges ahead of training camp. The team announced four new signings: versatile offensive lineman Jordan McFadden from Clemson (3-year, $6M deal), running back Travis Homer, and wide receivers Jahdae Walker and J.P. Richardson. While not splashy names, these are classic Poles moves: low-risk, high-upside players brought in to create competition and add valuable depth as the team prepares for the rigors of the season.
The front office's long-term vision is clear, but short-term concerns are beginning to surface as camp approaches. Reports have highlighted the immense pressure on the team's youth, particularly the 2025 draft class, to adapt quickly to Ben Johnson's complex offensive system. All eyes are on rookie QB Caleb Williams, who will be relying heavily on his fellow draftees like tight end Colston Loveland (Michigan) and receiver Luther Burden III (Missouri) to hit the ground running. The success of this draft class, specifically chosen to support Williams, will be a critical early test of Poles' and Johnson's shared strategy.
The front office has locked in its leadership and built the roster in its image. The vision is set. With rookies reporting to training camp in just one week, the focus now shifts entirely from the executive suite to the gridiron. The question on every fan's mind is simple: can this new era of stability, led by Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams, finally translate into the wins and NFC North contention that have been so elusive? The first chapter of the answer begins now.
