Image Source: NBC Sports
Xavier Woods is joining the Chicago Bears as the team responds to a significant setback in its secondary. Chicago announced Friday that it signed the veteran defensive back and placed Dallis Flowers on injured reserve.
The roster moves came one day after Flowers suffered a right-leg injury during Thursday’s practice. According to the team’s announcement, Flowers needed help getting off the field. The Bears have not provided a detailed diagnosis or timetable for his recovery, but placing him on injured reserve means he will not be immediately available as the club continues preparing for the upcoming season.
Breaking Move: Xavier Woods Adds Experience to Bears Secondary
Woods, 31, brings nearly a decade of NFL experience to Chicago. He spent the 2025 season with the Tennessee Titans, appearing in 11 games and starting 10. His workload included 526 defensive snaps, giving the Bears a player who has recently handled a substantial role in an NFL defense.
During his time with Tennessee, Woods recorded 39 tackles, two interceptions and three passes defensed. Those numbers reflect the type of reliable production Chicago hopes he can provide while the team evaluates its options in the defensive backfield.
- Games played for Tennessee in 2025: 11
- Starts: 10
- Defensive snaps: 526
- Total tackles: 39
- Interceptions: 2
- Passes defensed: 3
Veteran Safety Has Broad NFL Experience
The Dallas Cowboys selected Woods in the sixth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He spent his first four professional seasons in Dallas before continuing his career with the Minnesota Vikings and Carolina Panthers. Tennessee became his latest stop before the Bears made the decision to bring him to Chicago.
That experience could be particularly valuable during a busy portion of the offseason. Defensive backs must quickly learn communication calls, coverage responsibilities and scheme terminology, and Woods has already worked in multiple NFL systems. His familiarity with the pace and physical demands of professional football could help him compete for an immediate role.
Critical Injury Update Changes Chicago’s Defensive Plans
Flowers appeared in one game for the Bears last season. His placement on injured reserve creates an opening on the roster and adds urgency to Chicago’s search for dependable depth. The timing is also important because training camp practices are helping coaches determine which players are ready to contribute when the regular season begins.
The Bears’ decision to sign Woods so quickly suggests they wanted an experienced option rather than relying solely on younger players to fill the vacancy. Although the team has not announced Woods’ exact role, his previous starting experience gives Chicago flexibility in the secondary.
Woods could compete for a starting assignment, a rotational spot or a key role in sub-packages. He may also provide insurance if additional injuries affect the defensive backfield. His ability to contribute on defense and support the team’s overall communication structure will be closely watched in the coming practices.
What the Signing Means for the Bears
For Chicago, the move is about more than replacing one roster spot. The team is adding a proven defensive back while losing Flowers for at least the immediate future. Woods’ background with the Cowboys, Vikings, Panthers and Titans gives the Bears a player who has experienced different coaching styles and defensive systems.
The signing does not erase the uncertainty surrounding Flowers’ injury, but it gives Chicago a practical response while more information develops. The Bears can now assess Woods in practice and determine how he fits alongside the team’s existing defensive backs.
As reported by NBC Sports’ Pro Football Talk, the Bears announced both transactions Friday. The next step will be seeing how quickly Woods gets acclimated and whether he can translate his recent Tennessee production into a meaningful role in Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did the Chicago Bears sign?
The Bears signed veteran defensive back Xavier Woods, who spent the 2025 season with the Tennessee Titans.
Why was Dallis Flowers placed on injured reserve?
Flowers was placed on injured reserve after suffering a right-leg injury during Thursday’s practice. He needed help leaving the field.
How did Xavier Woods perform with Tennessee?
Woods played 11 games, started 10, and recorded 39 tackles, two interceptions and three passes defensed while playing 526 defensive snaps.
Which teams has Xavier Woods played for?
Woods began his career with the Dallas Cowboys and later played for the Minnesota Vikings, Carolina Panthers and Tennessee Titans.
