The Cleveland Browns' 2020 first-round pick, offensive tackle Jedrick Wills Jr., is officially moving on. On March 11, 2026, the Chicago Bears announced they have signed Wills to a one-year contract, ending his six-year tenure with the Browns. This signing, first reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter, marks a new chapter for Wills as he looks to revitalize his NFL career with the Bears.
For Browns fans, Wills's departure is bittersweet. Once hailed as the solution to the Browns' left tackle struggles, Wills arrived as an Alabama standout with high expectations after being selected 10th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. While his rookie season showed promise--he started all 16 games and helped the Browns reach the playoffs for the first time in 18 years--his career trajectory never fully ascended to the anticipated elite level.
Early Promise and Challenges
Wills's initial season in Cleveland demonstrated his potential as a powerful run blocker and capable pass protector. However, subsequent seasons exposed inconsistencies. Flashes of dominant play were frequently offset by mental errors, penalties, and technical breakdowns, leading to pressures and sacks that frustrated both fans and coaches. A series of injuries, including ankle and knee issues, further hindered his ability to build steady momentum and continue developing his skills. Consistency and health, both critical for an offensive tackle's success, became elusive.
By the midpoint of his rookie contract, opinions shifted from viewing Wills as a developing star to a player with significant questions surrounding his long-term viability. Despite his athletic tools and experience, these challenges limited his growth into the elite tackle the Browns had hoped for.
Browns' Decision and the 'Bust' Label
Heading into and during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, it became increasingly clear the Browns did not see Wills as their future at left tackle. Under General Manager Andrew Berry's leadership, the team prioritized a win-now approach and sought alternatives. The Browns selected a tackle in the 2024 draft and bolstered their line through veteran signings and emerging talent, signaling a clear pivot away from Wills.
While the harsh "bust" label has been applied by some, it unfortunately fits within the strict expectations for a top-10 pick. Wills never received Pro Bowl or All-Pro honors, and his performance metrics frequently ranked in the middle to lower tiers of starting tackles. With the Browns declining to exercise his fifth-year option and making no significant effort to re-sign him upon the expiration of his rookie deal, the parting of ways was largely inevitable.
Chicago Bears' Opportunity
The Chicago Bears have taken a low-risk, high-reward approach by signing Wills to a one-year "prove-it" deal. The contract details remain undisclosed, but the short-term nature points to a reclamation project for a player who still possesses the physical traits and starting experience to contribute at the NFL level.
The Bears' offensive line has seen its own challenges, and Wills brings over 80 career starts, offering valuable depth and the potential to compete for a starting role, likely on the right side of the line given the Bears' current roster. Bears offensive line coach Chris Morgan will play a crucial role in unlocking Wills's consistent potential with a fresh coaching approach and scheme.
For Wills, shedding the pressure of being the Browns' high first-round pick might allow him to play freer and more instinctively, motivated to regain market value and secure a longer-term contract in the future.
Browns' Offensive Line Moving Forward
With Wills's departure, the Browns have fully transitioned their offensive line for the coming seasons. Anchored by key starters like Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller and supported by younger tackle prospects, the focus remains on building continuity and performance in a critical position group. The era defined by Wills's selection now stands as a learning moment for the franchise--a costly miss but one from which the team has clearly moved forward.
Final Thoughts
Jedrick Wills Jr.'s signing with the Chicago Bears closes an instructive chapter for both himself and the Cleveland Browns. His journey underscores the challenges inherent in draft evaluation and player development, even when top-tier prospects possess great physical talent. For the Browns, lessons from Wills's tenure will hopefully guide better outcomes for future high draft picks.
Bears fans should view this signing as a strategic gamble--a player with the talent and experience but whose inconsistency has tempered expectations. If Chicago can harness Wills's abilities and instill steadiness, this could prove to be a savvy acquisition. If not, it will be a brief audition for a player seeking to rewrite his NFL narrative.
For Browns supporters, seeing Wills in a Bears uniform is a tangible sign of a once-promising talent who did not meet expectations in Cleveland. The hope remains that the franchise continues refining its roster-building strategy to ensure future first-round picks fulfill their intended roles as cornerstone players. Meanwhile, Jedrick Wills Jr.'s NFL story continues, now with fresh opportunity in Chicago.