Drew Dalman: Everything you need to know

Dalman informed the Bears on Tuesday that he has decided to retire from the NFL, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports. Dalman's decision comes out of left field, as the 27-year-old center joined Chicago via a three-year, $42 million contract last March and played at an extremely high level in 2025. The loss of Dalman leaves the Bears with a significant hole in the middle of an otherwise stellar O-line, and at an essential position for head coach Ben Johnson's offensive scheme to function smoothly. Expect Chicago to heavily prioritize searching for a pivot option at center in free agency and/or April's draft.

Dalman (ankle/hand) does not have an injury designation for Sunday night's matchup against San Francisco. Dalman was deemed limited Wednesday and Thursday, but he was able to log a full session Sunday. His lack of an injury designation means the Bears will have their starting center for Sunday's big NFC clash.

Dalman (ankle) was a limited participant in Chicago's practice Wednesday. Dalman popped up on the injury report Wednesday, putting him in danger of missing his first game of the season. If the 27-year-old is unable to play in Sunday's matchup versus the 49ers, Ryan Bates would likely start at center in his place.