Bears Sign Former 49ers Cornerback Nick McCloud to Contract

CHICAGO, IL — The Chicago Bears have announced the signing of cornerback Nick McCloud, a former player for the San Francisco 49ers. McCloud’s agency, Forever Athlete Management, confirmed the deal on Monday.

At 26 years old and standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 193 pounds, McCloud enters his fifth NFL season after previously playing for the Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, New York Giants, and 49ers. He began his professional career as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Bills on May 13, 2021.

In total, McCloud has participated in 48 games, starting 16 of them. His career stats include 96 tackles, with three for a loss, one interception, 1.5 sacks, and 10 passes defensed. Over his career, he has also been a key contributor on special teams, logging nearly 1,200 snaps in that phase alone.

McCloud’s most recent season was split between the Giants and the 49ers, where he appeared in 15 games, starting five. He recorded 25 total tackles, one tackle for loss, and two passes defensed, while also contributing significantly on special teams with 215 combined snaps.

Following an unsuccessful trade with fellow cornerback Deebo Samuel and ongoing transitions among the Bears’ defensive unit, McCloud’s signing comes at an opportune moment as Chicago looks to bolster its cornerback depth. Other corners on the roster include Jaylon Johnson, Tyrique Stevenson, Kyler Gordon, Terell Smith, Josh Blackwell, and Ameer Speed.

“We are excited to add Nick to our team,” said Bears General Manager Ryan Poles. “His experience and skills on special teams can really enhance our overall performance this season.” McCloud has ingrained himself as a reliable player on special teams and the Bears may be leveraging this for a more competitive roster.

Prior to his NFL career, McCloud played college football at North Carolina State University from 2016 to 2019 and at Notre Dame in 2020. His versatility as both a cornerback and special teams player positions him as a valuable asset for the Bears moving forward into the 2025 season.

As the Bears prepare for training camp, McCloud aims to carve out a role that not only highlights his defensive capabilities but also his special teams prowess. The team is looking to improve upon last year’s performance and return to postseason contention.