One Critical Move Ryan Poles Must Make Before It’s Too Late

The Chicago Bears have made some smart moves under GM Ryan Poles. While Poles has had some misses — Velus Jones Jr. comes to mind — he’s also had major hits, especially with trades. The deal that sent the first overall pick to Carolina brought in a haul that now includes Caleb Williams is always at the top of people's lists. But sometimes the best moves aren’t trades, free-agent signings, or even draft picks. Locking up a player early with a contract extension can be huge for future salary cap flexibility.

A perfect example is Jaylon Johnson’s extension last year. The Bears signed Johnson to a 4-year, $76 million deal ($19 million per year) with $51 million guaranteed. It looked like a solid deal at the time, but it’s proving to be a steal as the cornerback market has exploded. Recently, Texans CB Derek Stingley Jr. signed a 3-year, $90 million deal ($30 million per year), making him the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL. Johnson is now well outside the top 10 in cornerback salaries, highlighting how smart it was for Poles to secure the Pro Bowl and Second-Team All-Pro corner early.

Jaylon Johnson at 4 years, $76M ($19M per year) $51M guaranteed is unbelievable value https://t.co/wXIwZpJzCk

— Dave (@dave_bfr) March 17, 2025

Now, Poles has a chance to do the same with Kyler Gordon. Gordon is just 25 years old and has expressed interest in staying in Chicago.

“I love Chicago, I love everything about it...The people, the history, the team, community. This is where God is telling me to be, this is where I will be. It’s where I want to be. As far as an extension, we’ll see what happens. I’ve got no control over that, but God willing."

With the cornerback market only getting more expensive, locking Gordon up before the season would be a smart play. He’s an ideal candidate for an extension, and Poles would be wise to act now before the price tag rises even further.