27-Year-Old Bears Starter Retires, Walks Away From His Contract One Year In

Well, this one stings a bit if you're a fan of the Chicago Bears. Is it just me, or does the team seem to be taking more Ls off the field than on at this point?

READ MORE: Chicago Bears or Indiana Bears? This Is No Longer a Joke.

Chicago Bears 2025 Offseason: More Drama Off the Field Than On It

From the threat of making "home" games played in another state to the news that came out yesterday, when a 27-year-old starting center for the Monsters of the Midway decided to hang up the cleats.

Bears Offensive Line 2025: Who Fills the Void at Center?

Drew Dalman, who was one year into a 3-year $42 million contract with the Bears, unexpectedly retired. There was no reason given for the sudden decision, but given that he was leaving some money on the table, his age, and how well he played last year, fans and the front office had to be surprised.

Drew Dalman Retirement Shocks Bears Fans

Then again, Dalmans's contract was front-loaded. When he signed with the Bears, Dalman received a nice chunk of change in the form of $28 million. That's guaranteed money and nothing he did after that day would change it, so he's walking away in a pretty decent spot.

READ MORE: Chicago Unveils $630M Plan for Soldier Field If Bears Leave

The Money Side: How Dalman's Front-Loaded Contract Changes the Math

Football is a brutal game, and players retiring in their late 20s isn't a surprise. It just sucks when you see a good one leave in what is the prime of their career.

It had to be a tough decision for Dalman.

Early NFL Retirements: A Brutal Reality of the Game

That said, life goes on as the Bears now have a mighty big hole to fill on the offensive line. Rumors are that they will go after one of two "Tyler" free agents to play center on the Bears. Both Tyler Biadasz and Tyler Linderbaum could potentially fill the void.

We'll see. This offseason needs to get over quickly. At least the NFL Draft is next month.