After a strong first season under head coach and director of football Gregg Berhalter, Chicago Fire FC are poised to bring back most of their key contributors in 2026.

Defender Jack Elliott had his contract option exercised after leading the team in minutes and serving as captain last season. The club did the same for midfielder Sam Williams , who was signed to a first-team deal from MLS NEXT Pro affiliate Chicago Fire II during the 2025 campaign.

Chicago declined contract options on forward Tom Barlow and goalkeeper Bryan Dowd . Barlow will be eligible to enter MLS free agency, while Dowd is now eligible for selection in the 2025 Re-Entry Draft.

Veteran defender Chase Gasper is out of contract and pursuing opportunities outside of soccer after the 2025 season. The club al

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