The Bear’s Den, September 1, 2025

The Bear’s Den, September 1, 2025
Windy City Gridiron Windy City Gridiron

WE WANT YOU!

Would you like to show your Chicago Bears spirit to the world? I’m starting a feature where Windy City Gridiron readers can share pictures of themselves and their families and friends in Bears attire. Simply email a picture to me at the following address: denmasterken at aol dot com. The pictures need to be clear, and full resolution (i.e. full size from your phone if that’s how you take them). Include any description information you like along with the photo!

THE DAILY SPONGIE SPECIAL

BEARSSSSSS

Optimist vs. Pessimist: Where are the new-look Bears headed with Ben Johnson, Caleb Williams? – Chicago Sun-Times

A look at the quarterback, defense and head coach as the Bears try to relaunch when the season begins Sept. 8 against the Vikings.

Ryan Poles: Chicago Bears GM on Ben Johnson, Caleb Williams, more – Chicago Tribune

As the Chicago Bears season nears, GM Ryan Poles sat down with the Tribune to discuss coach Ben Johnson’s first training camp, QB Caleb Williams’ development and more.

Status of longtime Bears nemesis uncertain for opening night – SI

There might be no Vikings defensive player who has caused the Bears more problems in the last decade than safety Harrison Smith, but he may miss the opener.

Why do so many people hate Bears QB Caleb Williams? He answers exactly that question – Chicago Sun-Times

In an interview with the Sun-Times heading into his second season, Williams addresses whether his eccentricities lead people not to take him seriously and what he’s doing to put an end to misconceptions about him.

POLISH SAUSAGE

Should Illinois football really be ranked 12th in the country? – Chicago Sun-Times

In this week’s “Polling Place,” we also asked if college Saturdays beat NFL Sundays, or vice versa.

Justin Fields: Can New York Jets QB become next late bloomer? – Chicago Tribune

Justin Fields is on his third team in as many years. Sometimes success as an NFL quarterback takes a change of scenery. Or two.

Dak Prescott wasn’t “completely surprised” by Micah Parsons trade – NBC Sports

Prescott had said “11 is a Cowboy.” Now? Not.

Cowboys extend cornerback DaRon Bland – NBC Sports

As to Bland, the Cowboys didn’t drag their feet.

KNOW THINE ENEMY

The Vikings are optimistic about WR Jalen Nailor for Week 1 – NBC Sports

Adam Thielen is expected to have a prominent role and maybe start.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT ON WINDY CITY GRIDIRON

2026 Bears mock draft: Early picks going into regular season – Windy City Gridiron

WCG’s lead draft analyst shares his most recent seven-round 2026 Bears mock draft.

Fantasy Focus Part 3: Top 10 Bears – Windy City Gridiron

Good luck in all your fantasy leagues this year!

Will the Bears have alternate Nike uniforms in 2026? – Windy City Gridiron

One report says the Bears will get an alternate uniform in 2026.

Five Reasons the Packers’ Micah Parsons Trade isn’t as Good as it Looks – Windy City Gridiron

The Micah...