The Chicago Bears may have taken their biggest swings in the first wave of NFL free agency, but they are not done signing veteran talent to their 2025 roster.
The Bears invested more than $132 million into three players in the first days of the new league year, signing defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo, defensive tackle Grady Jarrett and center Drew Dalman and addressing priority roster needs.
Now, they addressing a secondary need at the cornerback position
Former Giants cornerback Nick McCloud (44) celebrates after intercepting a pass.
Geoff Burke/Imagn Images
According to Forever Athlete Management, the Bears are signing former San Francisco 49ers cornerback Nick McCloud to their roster for the 2025 season, adding veteran depth and experience to their young cornerback room.
McCloud has made 16 starts and played in 48 games since coming into the league undrafted in 2021, recording 96 total tackles, 1.5 sacks, one interception, 10 pass deflections, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.
McCloud has also played considerable snaps (770) on special teams over his career, making him another potential third-phase asset for Richard Hightower.
The Bears figured to make at least one addition at cornerback for 2025. While they re-signed Josh Blackwell to a two-year extension, they needed more help after fellow backup Jaylon Jones walked to sign with the Arizona Cardinals.
Chicago also has an incredibly young cornerback group with no members over the age of 25, including top cornerback and All-Pro starter Jaylon Johnson
McCloud’s roster spot with the Bears is by no means guaranteed, though.

Nick McCloud (44) forces Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (11) to fumble.
Vincent Carchietta/Imagn Images
While the veteran will likely make it to training camp and have a chance to compete for both a defensive and special-teams role with the team, he will face noteworthy competition from two recently extended players and three recent draft picks — Kyler Gordon, Tyrique Stevenson and Terell Smith.
The Bears could also target another cornerback in the 2025 NFL draft next month, especially after hiring defensive coordinator Dennis Allen and former Pro Bowl cornerback Al Harris to help forge a new identity for the team’s defense.
The Bears have not officially announced McCloud’s signing yet.