Training camps have opened their doors, and with them, a new NFL season begins. The battle for the Super Bowl resumes, old division rivalries are reignited, and the various fan tribes once again defend their colors.

The Bears arrive in 2026 after a season that, with all due fairness, can be considered successful. Chicago finished with an 11-6 record, won the NFC North, and secured its first playoff game in 15 years before falling dramatically, 20-17 in overtime, to the Los Angeles Rams.

Success wasn’t only in the results, but also in what was seen on the field: a team capable of winning improbable games, staging memorable comebacks, and once again occupying a significant place in the NFL conversation.

Now begins the difficult part: proving that that wasn’t the result of a single season.

The critics are already preparing their list of reasons why they expect a regression from the Bears. Although we don’t share their conclusions, we must acknowledge their right to present their arguments. And, above all, we must analyze them.

A defense full of questions

For the first time in a long time, there are more doubts in the defense than in the offense.

It’s unrealistic to expect Chicago to repeat the same number of fumbles recovered, additional possessions, and points generated by the defense. However, many of those achievements weren’t accidental: they were the result of a system. Dennis Allen has shown that he knows how to build schemes in which his players can leverage their strengths and stand out.

The problem is that he’ll have to do it with several new pieces.

The secondary, possibly the most successful unit from the previous season, also suffered the most losses. Between cornerbacks and safeties, rookies and free agents will have to adapt quickly. Perhaps it’s not reasonable to expect them to dominate from day one, but they must at least become a unit ranked among the top 15 in the league.

The defensive line is also obligated to respond. The pressure on the opposing quarterback was too light for much of the previous season. The secondary can’t be expected to carry the entire defense on its own again.

The group retains most of its members and will face its second year within the system. With more experience and, hopefully, better health, the line will have to stand on its own and produce more consistently.

There will also be new faces among the linebackers. Historically, the Bears have known how to find outstanding players in that position, but the current group represents another unknown. Once again, the coaching staff will have the responsibility of making more with less, courtesy of the general manager. But that will be a topic for another day.

An offense that must rebuild its identity

During the previous season, the offense developed a clear identity: running the ball at will and without mercy.

In 2026, the attempt to maintain that identity begins with some difficulties.

The offensive line needed several games to find its best version last season and now has lost key pieces. Drew Dalman abruptly retired, while the competition for the left tackle position is again conditioned by injuries and doubts.

Chicago is forced to rebuild the offensive line that allowed it to run the ball with the confidence of someone walking through the hallway of their own home: with authority, comfort, and without asking permission.

Continuity in the coaching staff becomes especially important. Ben Johnson and Kyle DeVan, the offensive line coach, will have to repeat the formula through preparation, motivation, and meticulous planning.

Training camp will be crucial to solidify the group. From the center to the left side, almost all the doubts are concentrated.

At least, the line will have the support of a group of running backs that retains a very productive combination. Maintaining a duo capable of punishing opposing defenses is an advantage not possessed by all teams. We are fortunate.

The receiving corps also experienced significant changes, although the impact seems less. The players who remain have the support of the coaching staff and possess enough talent to keep the offense moving.

Luther Burden III, Rome Odunze, and tight end Colston Loveland have the ability to damage any defense. Added to that is the hope that Jahdae Walker takes a step forward and contributes significantly.

Caleb Williams, the cornerstone

And so we arrive at the core of the season: Caleb Williams.

Psalm 118:22 says: ‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.’

The quarterback who many observed with doubts can become the cornerstone of the Bears. Ben Johnson, on the other hand, must be the architect capable of taking that talent and transforming it into a consistent, dangerous, and ultimately winning offense.

Caleb has already shown he can respond in moments of immense pressure. Now he must prove he can control games, reduce mistakes, and lead the team without needing to become the hero every week.

Because this season, the Bears don’t need another hero: they need a quarterback.

If the offense takes off, what seems today like an illusion could become the foundation of a new era in Chicago.

In short, much of the season will depend on what Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams can build. In their hands lie the aspirations of the owners, the work of the players, and the dreams of a fanbase that is once again believing.

Let’s start 2026 where the previous season ended: with the feeling that anything is possible.

End of transmission.

Go Bears!