Grady Jarrett on Signing with the Bears: “I Think the Perfect Match Came Along”
Grady Jarrett, one of the NFL’s premier defensive tackles, has found a new home with the Chicago Bears, and the veteran defensive lineman could not be more excited about the move. After spending his first eight seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, Jarrett has signed with the Bears, bringing his disruptive presence and leadership to Chicago’s defensive front. The signing has made waves in the football community, as Jarrett’s addition addresses a significant need for the Bears and aligns perfectly with their evolving defensive strategy.
In his first interview since joining the Bears, Jarrett expressed his enthusiasm for the new opportunity, stating, “I think the perfect match came along.” His words reflected the excitement and confidence he felt in joining a team with a rich defensive tradition and a bright future. For Jarrett, the move to Chicago isn’t just about finding a new team, but about joining a defensive-minded organization that shares his passion for excellence on the field.
Jarrett, a fifth-round pick of the Falcons in 2015, quickly became a cornerstone of their defense. Over the years, he developed a reputation as one of the most dynamic interior defenders in the NFL. With his quickness, strength, and relentless motor, Jarrett earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and became a constant disruptor in the backfield. During his tenure with the Falcons, he compiled 28.5 sacks, 80 tackles for loss, and 101 quarterback hits. His ability to control the line of scrimmage and collapse the pocket made him a vital piece in Atlanta’s defensive schemes.
However, with his contract up and the Falcons entering a rebuilding phase, Jarrett became one of the most sought-after free agents in 2025. When the Bears came calling, it was clear to Jarrett that this was an opportunity too good to pass up. “Chicago is a place with a great tradition on defense, and I felt like this was a place where I could make an immediate impact,” Jarrett explained. The Bears, who have focused heavily on improving their defense in recent years, saw Jarrett as the ideal veteran presence to help elevate their defensive front and provide leadership to their young, developing roster.
Jarrett’s signing fills an important void for the Bears, who have been looking to strengthen their defensive line. With a new defensive coordinator in place and an emphasis on building a tough, physical defense, Jarrett’s skill set is a perfect fit for Chicago’s 4-3 base scheme. Known for his ability to disrupt both the run and pass, Jarrett will play a key role in plugging gaps, collapsing the pocket, and providing a consistent push up the middle. His versatility in creating pressure from the interior will be crucial to the Bears’ ability to limit opposing offenses.
Beyond his on-field production, Jarrett’s leadership and professionalism make him an invaluable addition to the Bears’ locker room. Throughout his career, Jarrett has been recognized not only for his work ethic but also for his mentorship of younger players. His commitment to improving his game and helping others do the same will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the Bears’ defensive line.
For the Bears, adding Grady Jarrett is a statement move that reflects their commitment to building a competitive, defense-first team. With a solid foundation on defense and the addition of a proven playmaker like Jarrett, Chicago’s prospects for the 2025 season are looking brighter than ever. As the Bears continue to rebuild and reshape their roster, Jarrett’s presence could be the key to propelling the team back into playoff contention.
