Chicago Bears center Drew Dalman announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday, bringing a sudden complete to a five-year career that included a Pro Bowl selection and a surprising shift in team allegiance. The 27-year-old informed the Bears of his decision earlier today, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Dalman began his NFL journey with the Atlanta Falcons, who selected him in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Over four seasons in Atlanta, he became a consistent presence on the offensive line, starting 40 of 57 games played. His performance helped anchor a Falcons rushing attack that consistently ranked among the league’s best during his tenure. However, the Falcons opted not to re-sign him after the 2024 season, allowing him to enter free agency.
In March 2025, Dalman signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Chicago Bears, a deal intended to solidify the Bears’ offensive line as they developed quarterback Caleb Williams. He quickly proved to be a valuable addition, starting all 17 games in his single season with the team and earning his first Pro Bowl nod. Dalman led all centers in offensive snaps played and received a 77.5 grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking sixth among all centers, with a 78.9 run block grade ranking seventh.
Despite his success in Chicago, Dalman’s retirement comes as a surprise, particularly after a season that saw him overcome an eight-game absence due to injury in 2024. The Bears had anticipated Dalman would be a key component of their offense for years to come. His departure leaves a void at the center position and potentially opens the door for the team to explore other options, including Tyler Linderbaum, according to some reports.
Prior to his professional career, Dalman excelled at Stanford University, where he played center for four years, starting 22 of 25 games. He earned first-team All-Pac-12 honors as a senior in 2020 and was a team captain. He was a three-star recruit out of Palma High School in Salinas, California, and initially committed to Stanford following in his father’s footsteps.
The Falcons, meanwhile, filled the center position vacated by Dalman with Ryan Neuzil, an undrafted free agent who started all 17 games in 2025 and helped the team maintain a top-10 rushing attack, ranking eighth in the NFL with 125.8 yards per game.
