Just 1 Hour After Being Released by the Seahawks, Former DT With Over 445 Career Tackles Signals His Desire to Join the Bears

Chicago, Illinois – 12/06/2025

December in the NFL always finds a way to create drama, but few storylines have unfolded as quickly — or as emotionally — as the one involving veteran defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins. Only one hour after being released by the Seattle Seahawks through a non-injury settlement, the 33-year-old made headlines again by openly declaring where he hopes to land next: the Chicago Bears.

Hankins, who has logged more than 445 tackles across a decade-long career with the Giants, Colts, Raiders, Cowboys, and Seahawks, has long been respected for his toughness, poise, and discipline in the trenches. Now, at a crossroads in the final stages of his NFL journey, he is asking for one thing — a chance.

And the place he wants that chance is Chicago.

The veteran defender spoke candidly about what joining the Bears would mean to him, sending ripples across Bears Nation and sparking immediate conversation within league circles.

“If the Bears see any role for me at all, I’m ready to take it. Practice squad, limited snaps, whatever they need. I just want the opportunity to earn that navy and orange and fight for a franchise and a city built on grit, pride, and a legacy of defense.”

The timing of Hankins’ plea is noteworthy. Chicago has navigated rotational challenges along the defensive interior throughout the season, and as the NFC playoff picture tightens, the Bears are evaluating every possible avenue to fortify their front. Adding a proven veteran with Hankins’ résumé — even in a practice-squad capacity — could offer both leadership and stability during the most demanding stretch of the year.

Sources close to Hankins say his admiration for Chicago’s football culture is longstanding. The Bears’ identity — physical, relentless, defense-first — mirrors the brand of football Hankins has played his entire career. The possibility of contributing to that tradition at this stage is something he takes to heart.

Meanwhile, Chicago’s front office continues its late-season evaluations as injuries and depth concerns linger. With the team fighting to stay relevant in the NFC race, Hankins’ immediate interest has added a compelling wrinkle to the Bears’ personnel discussions.

Hankins’ career has never been flashy, but it has been defined by persistence. He has fought through double-teams, battled injuries, and earned his place through sheer will. Now he seeks one final home, one last defensive huddle, and one more chance to make an impact.

Whether the Bears answer that call remains to be seen. But in just one hour after his release, Hankins made one thing clear: he isn’t done, isn’t stepping away, and is fully prepared to start from the bottom if it means wearing the navy and orange.

And in Chicago, that kind of resolve has always carried weight.