JUST NOW:Chicago Bears Players Who Will Say Farewell Following Week 18

The NFL season is always full of surprises, with its ups and downs, but as the regular season draws to a close, some teams begin to look ahead to the future. For the Chicago Bears, Week 18 brings an end to a challenging season filled with growth, uncertainty, and change. After a grueling campaign, some veterans may be facing their final games in a Bears uniform, with the looming reality of roster turnover. Let’s take a look at five Chicago Bears players who are most likely to say farewell following Week 18.

1. Robert Quinn – Edge Rusher

When the Bears traded for Robert Quinn in 2021, the hope was that he would be a game-changing pass rusher on a defense that had lost a step in recent years. Quinn delivered on that promise during his first year with the team, setting a franchise record with 18.5 sacks. However, his second season with the Bears has been much less productive. While Quinn has shown flashes of his previous form, he has not been the dominant force that many hoped for, and injuries have also hindered his impact on the field.

Quinn’s future with the team is uncertain as the Bears are rebuilding and focusing on long-term growth, which could mean that they look to move on from their aging veterans in order to free up salary cap space for younger talent. As of now, Quinn has been somewhat of a trade candidate, with rumors circulating that the team could try to offload him for a draft pick or other assets in the offseason. Given his age (he turns 34 next season) and declining production, Week 18 could very well be his final appearance for the Bears, a farewell to a brief but memorable chapter.

2. Eddie Jackson – Safety

Eddie Jackson, the Bears’ standout safety, has been an important part of the team’s defense for several years. Known for his ball-hawking ability, Jackson has been a staple in Chicago’s secondary, with several highlight-reel interceptions and defensive touchdowns throughout his career. However, Jackson has faced criticism in recent years for a perceived decline in his play, particularly in his tackling and overall consistency. While his interception numbers have remained respectable, the Bears have been seeking more from their defense, and the growing need for cap space could force them to part ways with high-priced veterans.

Jackson’s contract is a significant financial commitment for the Bears, and with a rebuilding project underway, it’s possible that the team may look to move in a new direction at safety. If the Bears decide to release Jackson, it will likely be in an effort to clear up cap space for a more youthful and dynamic defense. Week 18 could mark his final appearance in a Bears uniform, and although Jackson’s time in Chicago has been successful, the team’s direction may lead to a parting of ways after this season.

3. David Montgomery – Running Back

David Montgomery has been a workhorse for the Bears’ offense since he was drafted in 2019. He has shown impressive toughness, vision, and versatility, earning the respect of fans and coaches alike. Montgomery has consistently been one of the team’s most productive offensive players, often carrying the load in an offense that struggled to establish consistency. However, the Bears are entering a critical stage in their rebuild, and a potential change in the backfield could be on the horizon.

Montgomery is set to become a free agent after this season, and with the Bears looking to invest in a more explosive offense under head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, they may not be willing to commit to a long-term deal with the veteran running back. Montgomery is a valuable player and could thrive in another system, but the Bears may prioritize finding a younger, cheaper option in the draft or free agency. If the Bears don’t offer Montgomery a new contract, Week 18 could be his final game as a member of the team, closing out a solid but ultimately uncertain tenure with Chicago.

4. Cody Whitehair – Offensive Guard

Cody Whitehair has been a fixture on the Bears’ offensive line since being drafted in 2016. He has earned a reputation as a reliable and steady presence in the trenches, anchoring the line at multiple positions, including center and guard. Whitehair has been a team captain and one of the key leaders in the locker room, making him a respected figure among his teammates. However, injuries have plagued him over the past few seasons, limiting his effectiveness and contributing to the inconsistency of the offensive line.

With the Bears in the middle of a rebuild, they are likely to prioritize youth and flexibility along the offensive line, and Whitehair’s contract may be a sticking point. The Bears could look to part ways with Whitehair to save money and invest in younger talent who could help protect the quarterback and establish a better run game. Although Whitehair’s leadership and veteran presence are valuable, the Bears may decide it’s time to make a change in the interior of their offensive line. Week 18 could be his final game in a Bears uniform as the team shifts its focus toward the future.

5. Tashaun Gipson Sr. – Safety

Tashaun Gipson Sr. has been a steady contributor in the Bears’ secondary over the past couple of seasons, providing experience and leadership to a relatively young defensive unit. Gipson has played a key role in the defensive backfield, using his veteran knowledge to mentor younger players while still being effective on the field. However, with the Bears investing in younger players like Jaquan Brisker and pursuing a rebuild, it’s possible that Gipson’s time in Chicago could come to an end after the 2025 season.

At 33 years old, Gipson is at the tail end of his career, and his salary could be an obstacle for the Bears as they work to free up cap space for future acquisitions. Gipson’s role as a mentor and his contributions to the team’s defensive growth shouldn’t be overlooked, but the Bears may look to move forward with a new wave of young talent. With a rebuild in full swing, Week 18 could mark the conclusion of Gipson’s tenure in Chicago.

Conclusion

As the Chicago Bears prepare to close out a tumultuous season in Week 18, several key players are on the verge of bidding farewell. Robert Quinn, Eddie Jackson, David Montgomery, Cody Whitehair, and Tashaun Gipson Sr. are all players whose futures with the team are uncertain, and they may find themselves playing their final games in a Bears uniform. As the Bears look to the future and continue to rebuild their roster, roster changes are inevitable. Though these players have each made valuable contributions to the franchise, the team’s path forward may involve new faces, with these veterans saying theirgoodbyes after the season wraps up.