Former Tennessee Vol Darnell Wright just got a big chunk of change without picking up a pen

TL;DR

Darnell Wright, an All-Pro offensive tackle for the Chicago Bears, has had his fifth-year option picked up, securing his contract through the 2027 season. This decision provides him with enhanced financial and job security.

Key points

Darnell Wright is an All-Pro offensive tackle for the Chicago Bears.
The Bears picked up Wright's fifth-year option.
His contract is now secured through the 2027 season.

Darnell WrightChicago Bears

Jan 18, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears offensive tackle Darnell Wright (58) celebrates the game-tying extra point by placekicker Cairo Santos (not pictured) against the Los Angeles Rams with eighteen seconds remaining in the fourth quarter of an NFC Divisional Round game at Soldier Field. Matt Marton-Imagn Images

The former Tennessee standout and current All-Pro for the Chicago Bears got a bit more financial and job security on Monday.

The first round of the NFL Draft provides teams with an extra benefit that don’t exist elsewhere. First round draft picks come with four-year contracts with the team having the ability to pick up a fifth-year option.

That’s exactly what the Chicago Bears did on Monday with former Tennessee Vols OL Darnell Wright. Per NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the Bears are picking up Wright’s fifth-year option that will lock him into Chicago through the 2027 season.

The #Bears are picking up the fifth-year option for All-Pro OT Darnell Wright, source says. Locked in for the 2027 season. pic.twitter.com/M00QB9xQOo

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 20, 2026

Chicago Bears pick up fifth-year option on RT Darnell Wright

According to Over The Cap, Wright’s fifth-year option will come in at $19,072,000 and it’s fully guaranteed. Had he been named to the Pro Bowl last season, that number would have jumped up to $23,392,000. However, despite being named second-team All-Pro by the AP, Wright did not earn a Pro Bowl nod.

Q&A

What is Darnell Wright's contract situation with the Chicago Bears?

Darnell Wright's fifth-year option has been picked up by the Chicago Bears, securing his contract through the 2027 season.

How does the fifth-year option work for NFL first-round draft picks?

The fifth-year option allows NFL teams to extend a first-round draft pick's contract for an additional year, providing both financial and job security.

What impact does picking up the fifth-year option have on Darnell Wright's career?

Picking up the fifth-year option enhances Darnell Wright's financial stability and job security, allowing him to focus on his performance without contract concerns.