Windy City Gridiron
As we inch closer to the start of the Chicago Bears’ 2026 season, the excitement surrounding this team within the fanbase is palpable. It’s one of the few times in recent years that the fanbase has felt this hopeful heading into the upcoming season. And for good reason as there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about what this team can accomplish in 2026.
So, what am I most excited about heading into the 2026 season? Here are the biggest reasons why I believe this Bears team is set up for a successful season.
Year 2 in Ben Johnson’s System
Ben Johnson has already built a strong culture within the team by holding players to high standards, emphasizing fundamentals and attention to detail, not allowing last year’s success to lead to complacency, and enforcing a strong work ethic.
The players understand what he expects from them, and they understand the practices they need to implement for sustained success.
Having continuity in the system is a huge benefit, especially for younger players like Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze. It allows them to be more comfortable in the offense and grasp the playbook at a deeper level.
Williams spoke about this during his appearance on the “New Heights” podcast, highlighting the early progress of the offense during OTAs: “We’re going out there, we’re calling plays, we’re getting in and out of the huddle. We’re lining up, we’re getting to the ball fast. Last year at this time, we could barely spit out a call… I get to be in a role that I haven’t necessarily been in my first two years. New coaches both years, new offenses, the comfort level.”
I break down the episode in more detail here.
Younger Players Taking a Big Leap
One of the biggest reasons for optimism entering the 2026 season is the development of the Bears’ young talent. Players like Colston Loveland, Luther Burden, Rome Odunze, and Austin Booker are all in a position to make significant leaps this year.
Loveland missed the entire offseason program and beginning of training camp last year as he rehabbed to repair the AC joint in his right shoulder after surgery while Booker and Odunze dealt with injuries throughout the season, causing them both to miss time.
Loveland and Burden did not have a significant role in the offense until later in the season.
If they all take a step forward, it could expand the production on the offensive side of the ball while improving the Bears’ pass rush on the defensive side of the ball.
More Speed on Defense
Last season, the defense often looked slow and outmatched, struggling to keep up in space against certain opponents. Because of that, the Bears really emphasized adding speed on defense this offseason. With additions such as Coby Bryant, Devin Bush, and Dillon Thieneman, their secondary gained more versatility and athleticism.
That added speed and versatility should allow the defense to play more aggressively and create more disruption, which is a...
