Grady Jarrett is ready for a fresh start with the Chicago Bears.
After spending his first 10 NFL seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, Jarrett shared how he's transitioning from his old club to his new one.
"It's an exciting time," Jarrett said, via the team website. "I'm just ready for a new challenge. I feel like the work that I've done in Atlanta is never ending, but it served its purpose as far as my time with the Falcons. The things and the lessons that I learned in my hometown, I want to bring it to Chicago and just be my best self, and I'm just excited for a new challenge."
Jarrett, 31, was released by Atlanta on March 10 and a few hours later agreed to a three-year, $43.5 million deal with Chicago.
During his tenure in Atlanta, Jarrett was a consistent defensive player that the Falcons could rely on. The 2015 fifth-round pick earned two Pro Bowl appearances as he recorded 126 QB hits, 77 tackles for loss and 36.5 sacks for Atlanta.
Bears general manager Ryan Poles has had an active free agency period by addressing the team's need to add veteran offensive and defensive linemen, respectively. The Bears traded for three-time Pro Bowl guard Joe Thuney from the Kansas City Chiefs and acquired guard Jonah Jackson from the Los Angeles Rams. Chicago also signed center Drew Dalman to a three-year, $42 million contract to protect quarterback Caleb Williams heading into his second season.
The Bears added edge Dayo Odeyingbo and Garrett to have them next to Montez Sweat. Last season, the club ranked 27th in opponent rushing yards per game. The Bears' defense took a hit when Andrew Billings suffered a torn pectoral in Week 9. Billings recorded a 78.6 pass rush grade from Pro Football Focus in 2024.
With veteran pieces being added to the roster, Jarrett will look to turn the page to prepare for his 11th season. He believes his first season in the Windy City could be one to remember.
"I think the perfect match came along when I had the opportunity to join this team," Jarrett said in his introductory press conference. "Being a part of something that is going to start here special. Me being somebody who wants to be in a position to compete for championships, encourage younger guys around me, and really share my experience and my hunger for greatness to others who want to achieve it. I'm in a special place in a special time, in a special moment where I'm supposed to be."
