Chicago Bears include former Wisconsin standout LB in team captain list

The Chicago Bears named former Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Edwards as one of its team captains for the 2024 season on Monday.

The Lake Villa, Illinois native is one of the Bears eight captains for the 2024 season, along with quarterback Caleb Williams, receiver DJ Moore, tight ends Cole Kmet and Marcedes Lewis, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, cornerback Jaylon Johnson and safety Kevin Byard III.

Edwards enters his second season representing the Bears after four years with the Philadelphia Eagles. He recorded 155 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, eight quarterback hits three interceptions and two fumble recoveries in 17 appearances a season ago.

During his four seasons representing UW, Edwards earned honors including First-Team All-Big Ten, Butkus Award finalist and First-Team All-American. He registered 367 total tackles, 37.5 TFLs and 8.0 sacks as a Badger. His 10 interceptions are also the most by any linebacker in program history.

Anchored by first-year defensive coordinator Eric Washington, the Bears’ defense will aim to dominate this season. The unit ranked No. 1 in rushing defense across the entire NFL in 2023, due in part to Edwards’ strong play at the position.

Edwards rounds out a loaded class of former Badgers who will serve as team captains for the 2024 season in the NFL. Outside linebacker T.J. Watt (Steelers), quarterback Russell Wilson (Steelers), running back Jonathan Taylor (Colts), fullback Alec Ingold (Dolphins) and offensive tackle Rob Havenstein (Rams) earned the nods for their respective franchises.