In a move that has raised eyebrows across the league, the Chicago Bears have claimed offensive lineman Jordan McFadden off waivers from the Los Angeles Chargers, according to Jeremy Fowler. McFadden, who was selected in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, has had a relatively quiet start to his professional career, appearing in only one game for the Chargers this season. However, the Bears’ decision to claim him indicates their intention to keep him around for 2025, likely as part of their long-term plans.
McFadden, 25, enjoyed a successful college career at Clemson, where he started for three consecutive seasons. His consistent play earned him All-ACC honors, including second-team recognition in 2022 and first-team honors in 2023. His strong performance at Clemson made him a sought-after prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft, and the Chargers selected him in the fifth round, signaling high expectations for his future.
However, McFadden’s rookie season in the NFL has been somewhat underwhelming. Despite being drafted with promise, he appeared in only one game for the Chargers in 2024, and did not make any starts. As a result, he has yet to make a significant impact on the field for Los Angeles. Nevertheless, the Bears clearly see potential in the young lineman, evidenced by their decision to claim him off waivers. Chicago’s offensive line has been a focal point of improvement in recent seasons, and McFadden could be a key piece in their ongoing efforts to build a stronger unit for the future.
McFadden is currently in the second year of a four-year, $4.15 million rookie contract, which includes a $312,140 signing bonus. With Chicago claiming him off waivers, the Bears now take on the remainder of his contract, keeping him under team control through the 2026 season. While McFadden’s role in the upcoming season remains uncertain, this move signals that the Bears are intrigued by his potential and hope to develop him into a contributor on their offensive line.
As the Bears look toward 2025 and beyond, McFadden’s addition could provide them with much-needed depth and youth on the offensive line. With Chicago’s recent focus on rebuilding and developing young talent, McFadden will have the opportunity to prove his worth and potentially earn a more prominent role in the coming years. While his time in Los Angeles was limited, the Bears’ faith in his abilities could serve as a fresh start for the 25-year-old lineman as he embarks on a new chapter in his NFL career.