The nightmare that was the 2024 Chicago Bears season is over. Before the transactional period starts and the roster changes begin, we will recap the seasons of most of the 53-man roster. Next up: We’re looking at the 2024 season of linebacker T.J. Edwards.
T.J. Edwards’ 2024 Snapshot
T.J. Edwards had another strong season as a key piece of the Chicago Bears defense in 2024, starting all 17 games and proving to be one of the team’s most consistent playmakers. He recorded 129 total tackles (79 solo), four sacks, three passes defensed, one interception, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries, remaining a tackling machine in the middle of the defense. While his total tackles slightly declined from his career-best 155 in 2023, Edwards continued to showcase his instincts, versatility, and ability to make impact plays in both run defense and coverage.
Edwards provided veteran leadership, helping anchor a defense that, at times, needed all the leadership it could get. His lone interception and multiple impact plays on the ball highlighted his ability to disrupt offenses. At the same time, his pass-rushing contributions (4 sacks) reflected his expanded role in getting after the quarterback.
Despite some struggles for the Bears as a whole, Edwards remained one of their most reliable defenders, consistently delivering strong performances and proving to be a valuable part of the team’s defensive core heading into 2025.
By the Numbers
- Tackles: 129
- Tackles for loss: 12
- Sacks: 4
- QB Hits: 6
- Fumble Recoveries: 2
- Forced Fumbles: 1
- Interceptions: 1
Contract Status
T.J. Edwards is heading into the final year of a three-year, $19.5 million contract he signed with the Bears in March 2023. Edwards is set to make $7 million in 2025, with $5.4 million coming via base salary and $1.6 million coming via a prorated signing bonus and a workout bonus.
Turning the Page
Edwards was one of the few consistent bright spots for Chicago in 2024. With Dennis Allen running a 4-3 defense and no significant structural schematic changes coming, Edwards figures to fit perfectly into the 2025 puzzle. Edwards is entering the final year of his deal and set to make $7 million this season, a bargain price point for what he has provided the Bears in his first two seasons in Chicago. Unless Edwards and the team agree on an extension before the season, the 29-year-old linebacker will be playing on an expiring contract and looking to earn a big payday next spring, which could result in a career year in 2025.