The Chicago Bears have turned their franchise around in one offseason. Ben Johnson has helped turn the Bears into a playoff contender and the team to beat in the NFC North.
While the offense has been a huge reason for the success this season, the defense has also stepped up at key times this season. There's one clear standout defender on defense, and it's ex-Dallas Cowboys cornerback Nahshon Wright.
Wright has had a breakout 2025 season, and for The Ringer's Austin Gayle, his projected contract won't be cheap this offseason. After a $1.1 million deal with Chicago for 2025, Wright is projected to land a new deal of around $16 million per year.
Bears' Nahshon Wright gets $16M contract projection
"Though he's a bit of a one-year wonder with limited athleticism, in the right defense, Wright can be a playmaking outside corner." Gayle writes. "He should get paid starter money in the $12 million-to-$16 million per year range, whether it's in Chicago or not."
Wright will be one of the most interesting names to focus on this offseason. As Gayle mentioned, Wright's a bit of a one-year wonder, and there could be concerns about whether he repeats his production this season.
The 27-year-old cornerback has started 15 games for the Bears, recording five interceptions, one pick-six, 11 passes defended, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and 74 total tackles.
In the first four years of his career, Wright had started just three games, recording one interception, five passes defended, no forced fumbles or fumble recoveries, and just 37 total tackles.
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Wright was not the worst player by any means for Dallas, but in 2025, he's turned into one of the better playmaking cornerbacks in the NFL, with eight total turnovers this season.
His market will be interesting, and while he could very well return to the Bears next season on a deal in the $12 to $16 million range, he could also leave in free agency.
Ironically, the Cowboys might be one of the top landing spots for Wright, as they've cut ties with Trevor Diggs and are in need of cornerback help.
But, regardless of where Wright decides to go, his breakout 2025 season has likely earned him a $10 million-plus pay raise in 2026 and beyond. A well-earned bump for the 27-year-old corner who's helped Chicago win the NFC North.
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