He didn't exactly walk into Halas Hall as a superstar. When the news broke in early 2024 that the Jonathan Owens Chicago Bears era was starting, the internet mostly talked about his wife, Simone Biles. It’s kinda the reality of being married to the GOAT of gymnastics. But if you actually watch the tape from the last two seasons, you’ll see a guy who has carved out a very specific, very loud niche in the Windy City.
The deal was pretty straightforward. A two-year contract worth about $4.75 million. Not "break the bank" money, but serious "we need you to be a pro" money. Honestly, the Bears weren't looking for a Pro Bowl safety. They were looking for a high-motor player who could stabilize a secondary that was transitioning under new leadership.
The Week 1 Blocked Punt That Changed Everything
Most people remember the 2024 season opener against the Tennessee Titans. It was Caleb Williams' big debut. But it was actually Jonathan Owens who saved the day when the offense was stuck in the mud. Daniel Hardy got a hand on a punt, and Owens did exactly what he’s paid to do: he was in the right spot at the right time.
He scooped that ball up and housed it.
That touchdown was a turning point. It wasn't just a highlight; it was the first time a Bear had returned a blocked punt for a TD since 2012. You’ve gotta respect the hustle. In a game where Chicago's offense didn't score a single touchdown, Owens provided the spark that led to a 24-17 comeback win.
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He basically proved right then and there that he wasn't just a "Hard Knocks" cameo or a famous husband. He was a football player who understood the geometry of special teams.
Moving Parts in the Chicago Secondary
Owens has had a weird road. He went from being a 17-game starter for the Houston Texans to a rotational piece in Green Bay, and then a depth/special teams hybrid in Chicago. Some fans were frustrated early in the 2025 season. Why wasn't he playing more?
Well, the Bears had Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker. It’s a crowded room. But here is the thing: injuries happen in the NFL like clockwork. When Elijah Hicks went down late in 2024, Owens stepped in and played lights out. We’re talking about a stretch where he was racking up 7 or 8 tackles a game consistently.
Why the 2025 Season Felt Different
By the time the 2025 season rolled around, the Jonathan Owens Chicago Bears relationship had matured. He wasn't the "new guy" anymore. Even though his defensive snap counts dipped compared to his Houston days, his impact on the locker room was clear.
- Special Teams Leadership: He became the de facto captain of the "we do the dirty work" unit.
- Versatility: He played free safety, strong safety, and even moved into the box on certain sub-packages.
- The "It's Real Now" Moment: After the Bears beat the Philadelphia Eagles in November 2025, Owens was caught on camera telling teammates, "It's real now, huh?"
That quote went viral for a reason. It showed that he was fully bought into the Chicago culture shift under Ben Johnson. The Bears weren't just a "lovable loser" or a team with a rookie QB anymore. They were 9-3 and eyeing the NFC North crown. Owens was the guy vocalizing that confidence.
Money, Contracts, and the 2026 Future
Let’s talk about the business side because that’s what most people search for. Owens is currently in the final year of that two-year contract. For 2025, his cap hit was roughly $1.9 million. In the world of the NFL, where top safeties are making $15 million a year, Owens is an absolute bargain for the Bears.
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He’s 30 now. Turning 31 in July 2026.
Usually, this is when teams start looking at younger, cheaper draft picks. But the Bears have a dilemma. Owens is reliable. He has played in every single game for four consecutive seasons. You cannot teach durability. While some analysts think he might be spending his last Christmas in Chicago, his performance in the 2025 playoffs—including a massive win over the Packers—might have earned him a one-year extension.
The Simone Biles Factor (The Real One)
We have to mention the Paris Olympics. The Bears did something pretty cool by letting Owens skip part of training camp in 2024 to watch his wife compete. That move bought a lot of goodwill. It showed that the Bears were a "player-first" organization.
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Owens hasn't let the celebrity status distract him. If anything, it seems to drive him. He’s an undrafted guy from Missouri Western. He’s used to people overlooking him. Whether he’s in Chicago in 2026 or heading to another city, he has established himself as a "high-floor" player.
Actionable Insights for Bears Fans
If you’re following the Jonathan Owens Chicago Bears situation heading into the 2026 offseason, keep these things in mind.
- Watch the Special Teams Snap Counts: If Owens is still hovering around 60-70% of special teams snaps, he’s invaluable to the coaching staff regardless of his defensive starts.
- The "Safety Market" is Volatile: The Bears have some young talent coming up, but keep an eye on whether they prioritize a veteran presence like Owens over a rookie in the late rounds of the draft.
- Follow the "It's Real" Energy: Owens is one of the emotional barometers for this defense. When he’s chirping, the secondary is usually playing with an edge.
The reality is that Jonathan Owens has been the perfect "glue guy" for a franchise that desperately needed one. He came for the opportunity, stayed for the culture, and helped turn the Bears back into a winner. He might not be the name on everyone’s jersey, but he’s the guy every coach wants on the 53-man roster.