The Chicago Bears' secondary will have a new look in 2026 as safety Jonathan Owens departs the team to sign a one-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts. The move, confirmed in early March 2026, ends Owens' two-season tenure in Chicago and represents a fresh opportunity for both player and club.
Jonathan Owens: From Chicago to Indianapolis
Jonathan Owens, who joined the Bears in the 2024 offseason, quickly became a valued depth player and special teams contributor. Over the past two seasons, Owens featured in 32 games, starting 14, demonstrating versatility and physicality in run support. Although never a full-time starter, his steady tackling and understanding of NFL defenses made him a reliable presence in Chicago's defensive backfield.
At 30 years old, Owens now takes his talents to Indianapolis, signing a one-year "prove-it" deal with the Colts. Under Head Coach Shane Steichen and Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo, the Colts' defense has sought experienced players to bolster their secondary's depth, and Owens fits that mold perfectly. While financial terms were not publicly disclosed, industry reports characterize the contract as a short-term opportunity for Owens to earn a larger role moving forward.
Coaching and Front Office Accuracy
It is important to highlight that the Bears are led by Head Coach Ben Johnson, Offensive Coordinator Press Taylor, Defensive Coordinator Dennis Allen, and General Manager Ryan Poles -- all of whom guided roster decisions in this offseason move. The Colts' staff includes Head Coach Shane Steichen, OC Jim Bob Cooter, DC Lou Anarumo, and GM Chris Ballard, confirming the correct team officials overseeing Owens' new role.
Owens' Impact and Legacy in Chicago
Owens' tenure with the Bears was marked by solid play and professional dedication. Initially brought in for depth and special teams, injuries and rotations afforded him multi-game starting opportunities. His impact was most notable in the 2025 campaign, where his steadiness in coverage and run defense helped stabilize an often-challenged defense. Although not a high-profile star, Owens earned respect within the Bears organization for reliability and football IQ.
In addition to his on-field contributions, Owens managed significant public attention due to his marriage to Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, conducting himself with poise and focusing media attention on football.
Roster Implications for Chicago
Owens' departure leaves an open question mark in the Bears' safety depth chart. Current starters Jaquan Brisker and C.J. Gardner-Johnson anchor the unit, but the versatile "third safety" role Owens filled is now available. General Manager Ryan Poles and Head Coach Ben Johnson must assess options in free agency--including possible value signings--and the 2026 NFL Draft, which promises solid safety prospects.
Internally, players like Elijah Hicks and several developmental athletes will have the chance to compete for expanded roles throughout offseason programs and training camp, which will be critical for maintaining depth and versatility at the position.
Moving Forward for the Bears
The Bears' front office has demonstrated a clear strategy of balancing veteran experience with youth and cost efficiency. Letting Owens, a 30-year-old veteran on a one-year deal, leave for another club aligns with this approach. While the Bears aim to maintain continuity and improvement, quality depth remains essential to prevent injury setbacks and maintain defensive schematics.
Owens' move underscores the fluidity of NFL rosters in the offseason and the constant evolution dictated by salary cap, player development, and strategic planning. His exit represents a manageable loss for the Bears, who remain intent on building a championship-caliber roster in 2026.
Looking Ahead for Jonathan Owens
Owens begins a new chapter with the Indianapolis Colts, where he is expected to contribute both in the defensive backfield and on special teams. His seven-year NFL journey -- beginning as an undrafted free agent from Missouri Western -- is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. The Colts will look to leverage his experience to enhance their secondary's stability and physicality.
Owens' goal will be to prove his continued ability to contribute at a high level and potentially secure a longer-term role beyond his initial one-year contract.
Conclusion
Jonathan Owens' departure from the Chicago Bears to the Indianapolis Colts is a confirmed and timely transaction within the 2026 NFL offseason landscape. It reflects standard roster evolution and underscores the critical importance of depth and versatility, especially in defensive secondary roles.
For the Bears, replacing Owens' contributions will come through free agency, the draft, or internal development, all critical components of Ryan Poles' team-building strategy. Meanwhile, Owens' measured, workmanlike approach gives the Colts a valuable new weapon as they look to improve their defensive unit.
The NFL offseason continues to unfold, but Owens' move highlights the ongoing business of roster construction and the ever-changing faces of teams each year.