The Chicago Bears have signed Ryan Pace to a contract extension through 2021.

"When we hired Ryan, we saw the key characteristics of successful general managers in him," team president Ted Phillips said. "We feel he has exhibited those traits in his three years as general manager. He's had leadership skills. He shows a clear vision of how to put together a winning team. He's always striving to find better ways to get that competitive edge. He's taken calculated risks in the draft and in free agency, while at the same time maintaining an eye on roster flexibility, salary-cap flexibility.

"He's identified value at every level of the draft, and, last but not least, got great character, great work ethic. He knows he needs to improve, as we all do. But we see the progress in our roster and we're confident that that growth is going to continue."

Pace was hired on a five-year contract in 2015.

"I never feel like it's about me; it's about what's best for the Bears, and if [my extension] allows us to go get the coach that we want, then that's what I'm for," Pace said. "It does show stability within our organization, so I just feel very blessed for the opportunity, very honored. Now I have to take advantage of it."