Chicago Bears' Top Defensive Star Unfairly Underpaid

Although the Chicago Bears have received significant acclaim for their off-season efforts, The most significant backlash has been about how generous the franchise has been with contract offers. Nevertheless, the Bears still have numerous players on their team who are performing at a higher level than what their current salary reflects.

Despite adding center Drew Dalman, defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, and defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo through free agency, the Bears still possess the 19th-largest amount of salary cap room In the league, as reported by Spotrac, this encompasses the trades for guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney.

Although it may not be as exciting as the beginning of the off-season, this demonstrates that Chicago still has some flexibility to maneuver following their bold moves during free agency. The Bears have been able to maintain this agility thanks to players such as defensive tackle Gervon Dexter, who is set to earn slightly more than $1 million in 2025. was dubbed the most underpaid athlete From the article about the Bears by Brad Gagnon from Bleacher Report.

Gideon Williams could also fit the bill, yet he was not quite as persuasive as Daniels and Nix in their roles for Washington and Denver," Gagnon stated. "Let's instead shine a light on Dexter, who emerged as a skilled second-year starting pass rusher with Chicago's improving defensive unit at only a $1.5 million price tag. The team will benefit from his affordability through both 2025 and 2026.

Gervon Dexter’s ascent with the Chicago Bears

Initially, the Bears chose Dexter with the 53rd overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. This pick was part of what Chicago received from the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for Roquan Smith. Notably, Dexter quickly made his presence felt, appearing in every one of the team’s 17 games during his first season. During this time, he recorded 20 tackles, generated 12 quarterback hits, and secured 2.5 sacks.

In the 2024 season, Dexter received a promotion to become a full-time starter. During this period, he played in 15 games and recorded 51 tackles, 19 quarterback hits, and five sacks. He topped the team in quarterback hits and ranked second only to Montez Sweat in terms of sacks. Additionally, Dexter received a grade of 70.3. According to Pro Football Focus, ranked 28 out of 219 defensive tackles.

Chicago has Dexter signed through the 2027 season. His biggest salary cap charge comes out to slightly above $2.1 million in 2026. Should he keep improving his game, a contract extension seems likely. Until then, Dexter aims to demonstrate why he merits a more substantial payday.

Dexter optimism entering 2025

There are numerous grounds for optimism regarding Dexter’s performance in 2025. Much depends on the player himself. In 2024, Chicago pushed Dexter to elevate his game and gave him a starting position. He demonstrated that he could handle this role effectively and serve as a key component of their defensive lineup. As he enters his third year in the NFL, Dexter ought to be completely adjusted and prepared to integrate all aspects of his play seamlessly.

However, the Bears were not ready to head into the 2025 season with the same lineup along their defensive front. They added depth by signing both defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett. These additions strengthen the roster individually, yet they also create opportunities for Dexter to cause chaos. Now, opposing offenses face multiple threats from the defense. This enhanced frontline should provide more chances for defenders to exploit gaps and dominate in the opposition’s territory.

The Bears added a fresh defensive leader with Dennis Allen joining their team. Although Dexter excelled in 2024, Chicago previously employed several playmakers on defense including Eric Williams and Matt Eberflus. Under Allen’s guidance, the defensive tackles will now operate under a single authoritative figure guided by an esteemed defensive strategist. Despite Allen’s last stint in New Orleans not being successful, during his initial two seasons leading the Saints, they stood out as one of the top defensive teams in the NFL.

As Ben Johnson assumes his position as the head coach, he aims to revamp Chicago's defensive persona. However, both he and the rest of the Bears' coaching team recognize that the defense requires an overhaul. Should Dexter maintain his performance levels, he will become part of Johnson’s key defenders. This would significantly impact the future of football in the Windy City for many years ahead.

The Bears won't be bothered by getting the defensive tackle at a reduced price, especially when contract negotiations start heating up.

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