Chicago Bears’ Dennis Allen finds secret weapon in undrafted free agent

Dennis Allen came into his role as Chicago Bears defensive coordinator with a number of strong building blocks in place. However, he has spent the offseason figuring out how to best maximize Chicago’s new-look defense.

Fans are well aware of the Bears’ additions in free agency and the draft. However, one group that gets overlooked is the team’s collection of undrafted free agents. There’s a reason each player wasn’t selected, but that doesn’t mean they can’t evolve into a future difference maker.

The Bears are well aware of that scenario, most recently seeing Jack Sanborn – who is now with the Dallas Cowboys – go from UDFA to starter. When it comes to the 2025 undrafted class, Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report argues defensive back Tysheem Johnson will make the biggest impact in Chicago.

“Johnson is a modern defensive back, in that he can play both safeties, corner and cover the slot,” Sobleski wrote. “He can be moved all over to help with the back end’s flexibility, which creates a chance to make the roster because the front office sees a defender who can do more when necessary instead of being pigeonholed into one position.”

What Tysheem Johnson offers Chicago Bears 

Johnson spent the first two years of his college career at Ole Miss and his final two at Oregon, appearing in 54 games total. He racked up 262 tackles, 11 pass break ups and six interceptions. He set a new career-high with three picks as a senior.

However, he saw his passes defended drop to just one. Furthermore, Johnson set his career-high of 78 sacks during his sophomore season at Ole Miss. Still, that season was the only year he didn’t record an interception. His inconsistent play throughout college is what ultimately led to Johnson going undrafted.

But there are plenty of reasons the Bears decided to target him, starting with his versatility. Johnson plays safety predominantly. However, he has experience at cornerback as well. If he were to make the final roster, Johnson could fill a swing role at any defensive back position.

Furthermore, Johnson’s interceptions aren’t lost on Chicago. Head coach Ben Johnson wants playmakers all over his roster, including defense. If Johnson proves through the offseason program that his takeaway skills are legit, that would leave a lasting impression on the coaching staff.

Johnson wants to stick in Dennis Allen’s defense

If he truly shines, maybe Johnson enters the conversation in terms of safety of the future with Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker upcoming free agents. But as an undrafted free agent, he would need to have a truly breakout rookie season. Still, the Bears remain confident they found a diamond in the rough.

Training camp will be extremely telling for Johnson and every UDFA trying to make the Bears. Allen will certainly have his eyes on the defensive back as the teams go through their final cuts.