Chicago Bears restructure Dayo Odeyingbo contract to create salary cap space

The Chicago Bears restructured the contract of defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo, converting $14 million of his salary into a signing bonus. The move generates $7 million in immediate salary cap relief for the organization. This adjustment follows a 2025 campaign where Odeyingbo recorded one sack in eight games before an Achilles injury forced him to the sidelines. Chicago also reworked the contracts of Joe Thuney and T.J. Edwards to reach a total of $17 million in freed cap space. Although the team previously held the option to release him, the restructured deal increases his salary cap hit, complicating a potential cut or trade next offseason. The front office bypassed opportunities to sign veteran pass-rushers or trade for external replacements, signaling an intention to rely on Odeyingbo in a versatile role opposite Montez Sweat.

• 12:58 AMYahoo Sports — Bears Drop Big Hint on Dayo Odeyingbo Plans in Series of Moves