NFL

NFL News: Bears hand $40M extension to one of Caleb Williams’ teammates

As teams across the league make roster adjustments, the Chicago Bears are making their own significant moves, recently agreeing to a big extension with a teammate of Caleb Williams, vaulting him to the top of a key defensive category.

Caleb Williams #18 of the Chicago Bears looks on during warmups before the game against the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field on December 22, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.
© Quinn Harris/Getty ImagesCaleb Williams #18 of the Chicago Bears looks on during warmups before the game against the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field on December 22, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

The Chicago Bears are prioritizing their top talent heading into the upcoming season, and one such player, a teammate of quarterback Caleb Williams, recently agreed to a new extension that will make him the highest-paid player at his defensive position in the NFL.

According to a report from Adam Schefter, the Bears reached a three-year, $40 million agreement with cornerback Kyler Gordon. This deal elevates him to the highest-paid slot corner in the NFL, a distinction rarely seen.  

Gordon, who has played three seasons with the Bears since joining the franchise in 2022, has proven to be a highly effective defensive presence. His 207 total tackles and four quarterback hits solidify his status as one of the league’s premier cornerbacks.  

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Gordon and Williams: A Budding Partnership

Gordon and Caleb Williams have been teammates since the 2024 season, the year the Bears’ new quarterback arrived. Williams has already showcased a talent that could propel the Bears further, with the ultimate goal of reaching the playoffs – a feat the team hasn’t achieved since 2020.

Kyler Gordon #6 of the Chicago Bears

Kyler Gordon #6 of the Chicago Bears celebrates after recovering a fumble against the Seattle Seahawks during the third quarter at Soldier Field on December 26, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Gordon’s Previous Contract

Prior to his lucrative extension, Gordon was playing under a four-year contract valued at $8.6 million, equating to an annual salary of just over $800,000. His new deal represents a significant financial leap, boosting his yearly earnings to $13 million.

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With this new commitment, Gordon is likely motivated to elevate his performance even further in the upcoming season. The Bears desperately need their defensive line and the entire unit to support the offensive efforts. In 2024, their defense ranked 13th out of 32 teams, allowing 21.8 points per game.

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