The Bears lose a well-liked undrafted rookie to a division rival after failing to give him much opportunity during his first NFL season. Following a disappointing 2024 season that saw the team eliminated from playoff contention by Week 15, the Bears stuck with familiar starters, including rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, throughout their 10-game losing streak. While this strategy made sense for Williams, it hindered the development of other young players.
After the season, the Bears offered future contracts to nine developmental players, but undrafted rookie cornerback Reddy Steward was notably excluded. Steward, who had impressed during camp and the preseason, was not signed to a future contract and became free to sign with any team. Multiple teams, including the Minnesota Vikings, quickly expressed interest, and Steward ultimately joined the Vikings, where he will compete for a roster spot. Despite showing promise with the Bears, including a solid performance against the Chiefs in the preseason, Steward spent most of the year on the practice squad and only got brief playing time in Week 9 against the Arizona Cardinals.
The Bears’ failure to elevate him more often means they will now lose out on a potential talent as Steward moves on to a new opportunity.
