Overview
- ESPN's Adam Schefter first reported that Dalman informed the Bears of his retirement at age 27, a development confirmed by multiple outlets with no public explanation from the player.
- Dalman signed a three-year, $42 million deal in March 2025, played every offensive snap last season, earned a Pro Bowl nod, and allowed just one sack per Pro Football Focus.
- NFL Network reports the Bears are hosting former Commanders center Tyler Biadasz on a visit, and Sports Illustrated reports they have explored top free agent Tyler Linderbaum.
- Local cap analyses project roughly $10 million in salary-cap relief from the retirement, giving Chicago added flexibility for roster moves.
- The vacancy at center compounds an existing need at left tackle, with Ozzy Trapilo expected to miss much of 2026 after a patellar tendon injury.