The Chicago Bears are in wait and see mode on Monday after free-agent splash signing safety Coby Bryant was carted off the practice field with an apparent left leg injury during their first padded workout.
While there is no immediate update to Bryant’s injury, reporters in attendance noted that the veteran was emotional while getting put on the cart. Yet, right now, any speculation on the injury would be just that, though the question does become what does Chicago do for roster insurance.
With the Bears and their fanbase awaiting word on the specific injury to Bryant, it is never too soon to looking at potential options at safety on the free agent market, if Chicago needs to bring in more bodies. Here’s a look at the top available safeties on the free agent market in wake of Bryant’s injury:
Xavier Woods
Having played last season with the Tennessee Titans, Xavier Woods has familiarity with defensive backs coach Al Harris, who coached Woods during their time together in Dallas. Woods only played in 11 games in 2025, but had a career year in 2024 with the Carolina Panthers, where he totaled 119 tackles and three interceptions in 17 games, a sign that he’s not far removed from playing at a very high level.
Donovan Wilson
Another veteran who has spent time being coached by Al Harris, Donovan Wilson is still a very productive safety who fits the Bears style of defense by making plays on the ball. Having spent his entire career with the Dallas Cowboys since 2019, Wilson had 71 tackles, two interceptions, and one forced fumble last year but was not re-signed as the team looked to get younger on defense this offseason.
Taylor Rapp
Taylor Rapp is a very interesting player at just 28-years old with plenty of football ahead of him after spending time with the Los Angeles Rams, and most recently, Buffalo Bills. Limited to just six games last year, Rapp’s 2024 is worth looking back at, totaling 82 tackles, two interceptions, and one forced fumble on the season while playing in 14 games for Buffalo. There would be some familiarity with Rapp and Bears free-agent signing Cam Lewis, who joined Chicago this offseason.
Jordan Poyer
Another player who would be coming over from the Bills, Jordan Poyer is a tougher sell as he is closer to retirement than getting back on the football field. Poyer has spent his career with the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins, and if he wants to continue his playing career, he’d be a fun and interesting addition as a veteran leader. Last year, the Bears signed CJ Gardner-Johnson when they were decimated by injuries, and he played very well. There’s a chance Poyer could recreate the magic this year.
Harrison Smith
The biggest splash the Bears could make would be a shot right at a NFC North division rival, the Minnesota Vikings. A longtime member in Minnesota, there’s been no word on Harrison Smith’s future playing career, but if Chicago wanted to test the waters, Smith would be intriguing to add in a secondary coached up by Al Harris. The veteran would instantly be considered a locker room leader, and if they could limit his playing time, the Bears could utilize him in pivotal downs and situations.
Follow Bears Wire on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: 5 safeties Bears could consider signing after Coby Bryant injury
Reporting by Mike Pendleton, Bears Wire / Bears Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Mike Pendleton, Bears Wire | USA TODAY Network
