Tyler Biadasz's release remains a head-scratching move from the Washington Commanders. And a new report suggested the starting-caliber centre is not going to be out of work for long.
The Chicago Bears were stunned to learn that Pro Bowl center Drew Dalman has reportedly decided to retire after just five seasons. This is something the 27-year-old has supposedly been contemplating for some time, and it leaves the NFC North club desperately seeking an adequate replacement to fill the void.
According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, the Bears are bringing in Biadasz for a visit. This suggests there is mutual interest between the two, which would tick something off general manager Ryan Poles' to-do list before free agency.
Tyler Biadasz could fuel growing Commanders-Bears rivalry even more
There is a new rivalry brewing between the Bears and Commanders, stemming from the Hail Mary miracle and the Jayden Daniels-Caleb Williams debate. This probably won't enter Chicago's thoughts, but having someone sturdy to replace Dalman would soften the blow almost as quickly as it arrived.
This would also be cheaper than most pending free agents. Biadasz's release came with a lofty dead-cap figure of $8.1 million, so a cheaper agreement could be arranged, at least for next season. Based on Chicago's growth under head coach Ben Johnson, coupled with the team's offensive line's surge in consistency, this represents an intriguing landing spot from the player's perspective.
Commanders fans, and some of Biadasz's old teammates in the locker room, were caught completely off guard by the decision. General manager Adam Peters extended Nick Allegretti ahead of time, which indicates he may have a shot at the starting center gig. Washington could also go down the free agency route, and there are some rough diamonds to pick out on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft worth considering.
Dalman's retirement rocked the Bears, especially considering he's got his best football years ahead of him. But when a player's heart just isn't in it anymore, the best solution is always to walk away while their health is still intact.
The Bears are moving swiftly to ensure no momentum is lost. Biadasz might not be the only center they'll look at, but he's easily the most feasible to attain right now. He's also got proven experience at the highest level and deep into the playoffs. That will matter greatly to a team harboring massive ambitions moving forward.
Nobody expected Biadasz to be out of work for too long. If everything goes well in Chicago, another opportunity could arrive almost immediately.
And if he helps the Bears get over the hump, questions will be asked of the Commanders' thought process.