30 Most Important Bears of 2026: Josh Blackwell (No. 28)

ASFN Admin · Jul 1, 2026

The Chicago Bears are gearing up for a hyped 2026 season, where they're looking to build off their impressive first season under head coach Ben Johnson, which included an NFC North title and a wild-card playoff win. While they found success in 2025, it's a brand new slate for this Bears team following an offseason of change, including the departures of key veterans and the additions of new veterans and exciting rookies.

The work begins in training camp, where Johnson will put his team through the wringer with the intent to prepare them for the 2026 season. Every day from now right up through training camp, we’re counting down our 30 Most Important Bears for the 2026 season. We’ll recap their 2025 season, look ahead to 2026 and tackle the biggest question facing them this year.

Next up at No. 28 is cornerback Josh Blackwell, who's been one of the best special teams contributors in the NFL heading into Year 5. Blackwell will once again be key to Richard Hightower's unit's success in 2026, as he looks to earn another contract extension.

Background

Position: Cornerback

Age: 27

Experience: 5th season

2026 cap hit: $2.6 million

2025 recap

Blackwell appeared in 15 games for Chicago, where he primarily served as a special teams contributor. That's exactly why he inked a two-year, $5 million contract last offseason, becoming one of the highest-paid specialists. And looking at his contributions last season, it was well worth it. Blackwell tallied eight special teams tackles (two solo), as well as two tackles during the postseason. He also returned 18 kickoffs for 455 yards (with a long of 34 yards). Blackwell also came up big in clutch moments of the game, where his standout play was blocking a game-winning field goal attempt by Las Vegas Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson to preserve a win, which earned him NFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors. Blackwell also recovered a fumble by Green Bay Packers receiver Romeo Doubs during an onside kick attempt, which led to a Caleb Williams game-tying touchdown pass to Jahdae Walker and another Williams to DJ Moore score to win it in overtime. While he wasn't asked to do a lot on defense -- he totaled nine tackles, forced two fumbles and one fumble recovery -- Blackwell has made his career being a vital special teams contributor for Richard Hightower.

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Importance in 2026

The hope is Blackwell won't have to make a significant appearance on defense, meaning Chicago's cornerbacks stay healthy this season. Regardless, his biggest contributions will come on special teams, as he's one of the most important members on that unit. Blackwell has established himself as one of the game's best specialists, and he's key for Richard Hightower's group. As for his impact in the return game, Blackwell figures to see more action returning kickoffs with Kalif Raymond, rookie Zavion Thomas and (potentially, occasionally) Luther Burden III expected to return punts. Every season, Blackwell has one significant highlight (or two) that reminds the Bears why he's so vital to their special teams success. Expect that to continue in 2026.

Big Question: Will the Bears re-sign Blackwell after 2026?

There aren't any real pressing questions about Blackwell's play heading into 2026, so the biggest question is whether he'll be back with Chicago beyond this upcoming season. While we can't say for sure what general manager Ryan Poles will do, it's a safe bet that Blackwell will ink another contract extension next offseason assuming he remains a vital part of Richard Hightower's special teams. Perhaps the biggest question isn't even if Blackwell will sign an extension, rather if he'll earn a raise in the process.