Bears Reshape Roster with Trade and Final Cuts Ahead of Season Opener

Chicago finalized its 53-man roster, trading defensive tackle Gervon Dexter Sr. to Atlanta for a fifth-round pick and cornerback Clark Phillips III. The projected depth chart shows Caleb Williams leading the offense, while the defensive line features new additions Grady Jarrett and Neville Gallimore. Several players, including Shemar Turner and Noah Sewell, begin the season on the PUP list.

The Bears' trade with Atlanta reshapes both sides of the ball, sending Dexter to the Falcons while bringing Phillips to Chicago's cornerback room. The defensive interior now leans on veterans Grady Jarrett and Neville Gallimore, with undrafted rookie Jayden Loving earning a roster spot. The team also parted ways with cornerback Terell Smith, whose injury history undermined his flashes of potential.

Several key contributors begin the season on the PUP list, including defensive lineman Shemar Turner, linebacker Noah Sewell, and nickel corner Kyler Gordon. The offensive line features Braxton Jones at left tackle once healthy, with Ozzy Trapilo filling in. Quarterback Caleb Williams leads a receiving corps headlined by Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III, while the relationship between GMs Ryan Poles and Ian Cunningham facilitated the deal.