Former Devin Bush, once labeled a first-round disappointment by the Pittsburgh Steelers, has re-entered the spotlight after signing a three-year, $30 million contract with the Chicago Bears during the 2026 NFL free agency period. The deal averages $10 million annually, which may initially seem expensive, but it has been widely regarded as one of the best-value signings of the offseason.
According to analysis from Pro Football Focus, Bush’s contract ranks among the top five bargains. This evaluation is largely based on his strong resurgence with the Cleveland Browns over the past two seasons. After struggling to meet expectations earlier in his career, Bush significantly improved and delivered elite-level performances.
- During the most recent season, he earned the fourth-highest overall grade among linebackers at 87.6. Since 2024, he has ranked in the 97th percentile in both run defense and coverage, showcasing a well-rounded skill set. His abilities are expected to address a major weakness in Chicago’s defense, which ranked near the bottom of the league in offensive success rate allowed in 2025 and lacked consistency at linebacker.
Financially, Bush’s deal is considered a bargain compared to the rest of the market. At least six linebackers signed contracts with higher average annual values, including former Bears linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, who agreed to a three-year, $36 million contract with the New York Giants. Additionally, Bush ranked ninth overall on PFF’s free agent list, further emphasizing the perceived value Chicago is getting.
Bush’s turnaround began after leaving Pittsburgh in 2023. By 2024 and 2025, he finally started to perform like the top-10 draft pick he was expected to be. A key factor in this improvement may have been the influence of Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, whose system appeared to maximize Bush’s strengths.
While in Cleveland, Bush became highly productive, particularly as a tackler and run defender. He earned run defense grades of 86.4 and 87.3 over the last two seasons. His pass coverage also improved significantly, reaching a career-high grade of 80.4, a notable jump from the 50–60 range that defined much of his earlier career.
However, there are still concerns about whether he can maintain that level of performance outside of Cleveland’s system. Prior to joining the Browns, Bush struggled with consistency, especially during his time with the Steelers and in Seattle, where his run defense was less effective.
Because of this, Chicago’s investment carries some uncertainty. The upcoming seasons will determine whether Bush’s breakout is sustainable or if it was largely a result of the Browns’ defensive scheme.
Meanwhile, none of the Steelers’ offseason moves were included among the top value signings, despite general optimism about their roster improvements—particularly if veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers ends up returning. In contrast, the Baltimore Ravens did secure one of the highlighted value deals with the addition of safety Jaylinn Hawkins.
Ultimately, Pittsburgh’s offseason success will need to be proven on the field, and much of their outlook for 2026 depends heavily on how their quarterback situation is resolved.