Chicago Bears special teams take another blow as Pittsburgh Steelers add depth piece

Chicago continues to see its roster trimmed in free agency, and the latest departure hits a phase of the game that often gets overlooked until it becomes a problem. Running back Travis Homer is headed to Pittsburgh, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, though contract details have not been disclosed. While his offensive production in Chicago was minimal, his impact elsewhere was far more significant.

Homer appeared in 10 games last season, recording one carry for minus-2 yards. His real workload came on special teams, where he logged 62% of the unit’s snaps and produced 10 tackles.

That level of involvement highlights why his exit matters more than the stat sheet might suggest. Over three seasons with the Bears, he became a steady, trusted presence in coverage.

This move also continues a growing link between the two franchises, as Homer becomes the second Bears player to land in Pittsburgh this offseason, following safety Jaquan Brisker. For Chicago, the concern is less about losing a backup running back and more about the cumulative erosion of a unit that quietly supported multiple wins last season.

Even with the addition of Kalif Raymond to help in the return game, the coverage side now looks thinner.

With both Homer and Jonathan Owens no longer on the roster, the Bears will likely need younger players to step up and handle increased responsibilities. Josh Blackwell remains a key piece, but the unit's overall balance has clearly shifted.

Chicago Bears may turn to draft and low-cost options to rebuild depth

The broader roster picture suggests Chicago is not done adjusting. After early free agency activity, the team appears to be working within tighter financial limits, with expectations of moves aimed at creating additional cap space ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. That timing could shape how they address the void left behind.

Homer’s role was not easily replaceable. He accumulated 582 special teams snaps across the past three years, making him one of the more consistent contributors in that phase. Special teams coordinator Richard Hightower once emphasized his value, saying,

“I could sit up here and talk about Travis Homer all day, but he’s a guy you don’t know the value of if you’re not around him every day.”

Chicago’s current running back group includes D’Andre Swift, Kyle Monangai, Roschon Johnson, and Brittain Brown. Outside of Swift and Monangai, the remaining backs combined for just 138 snaps across offense and special teams last season. In comparison, Homer alone handled 163 special teams snaps, underlining the gap that now exists.

The team has already evaluated draft prospects such as Seth McGowan and Noah Whittington, both viewed as potential late-round options who could contribute on special teams. 

What stands out is how quietly this need has developed. Chicago’s next moves will likely determine whether this becomes a short-term adjustment or a lingering issue.

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