James Lynch

Career StatsF

Year	Team	GP	Sacks	Tkl	TFL
Career		71	3.5	98	16.5
2025		17	0.5	25	4
2024		17	1.0	20	3.5
2022		15

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Bears secured solid value by locking up James Lynch at $1.3M AAV, earning a B- CVI that reflects smart depth management in today's inflated market. While Lynch profiles as a depth piece rather than an impact starter, his modest salary makes this a low-risk gamble that won't hamstring Chicago's cap flexibility. The minimal guaranteed money ($0.1M) gives the Bears an easy exit ramp if Lynch doesn't develop as hoped, essentially making this a prove-it deal disguised as roster security. Lynch's developmental trajectory suggests he could outplay this contract if he takes the expected step forward, providing the Bears with either quality rotation depth or tradeable surplus value. This is the type of shrewd, under-the-radar move that championship rosters are built on — addressing positional depth without breaking the bank or blocking future flexibility.

Performance Analysis

James Lynch receives an F grade as a veteran defensive tackle who has been a rotational piece without ever breaking through as a quality starter. His 98 tackles and 3.5 sacks across 71 games over five seasons with Minnesota and Tennessee is modest production for an interior lineman with that much experience. The 16.5 tackles for loss is the most encouraging stat, showing some ability to penetrate and disrupt. Lynch played full 17-game seasons in both 2024 and 2025 with the Titans, demonstrating the kind of durability that keeps you employed. However, the F grade tells us his overall impact has been below replacement level, and at this stage he is a veteran depth piece rather than a difference-maker. Now heading to Chicago, Lynch brings experience to a young defensive front.

Fan Sentiment

Chicago adds a rotational depth piece along the defensive line in a low-risk move. Five headlines covered the signing, confirming it as a legitimate roster addition worth monitoring. Lynch's 6'4", 295-lb frame signals a classic run-stuffing interior lineman role for Chicago. Fans see this as a modest but sensible upgrade over pure camp bodies at defensive tackle. Lynch projects as a reliable rotational contributor if he can replicate his Tennessee production.