Chicago Bears implement roster changes and salary cap restructures

The Chicago Bears have made several notable roster and financial adjustments heading into the season. Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen has indicated that veteran defensive tackle Kentavius Street is likely to replace Gervon Dexter in the starting lineup. Allen cited Street’s productivity during training camp and his ability to disrupt the line of scrimmage as key factors, despite critics noting Street's lack of preseason interior pressure.

On the financial side, the Bears have restructured contracts for Joe Thuney, Dayo Odeyingbo, and T.J. Edwards. These moves have cleared approximately $17 million in salary cap space for the 2026 season. While these restructures help the team comply with league mandates and provide an operating fund for potential mid-season injuries, the team remains over the current salary cap, limiting their immediate ability to pursue high-cost trades.