Last Updated on September 30, 2025 11:34 am by Tomas
Chicago Bears Team Overview
The Chicago Bears enter the 2025 NFL season with renewed optimism under first-year head coach Ben Johnson, who comes from a successful tenure as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator. The Bears finished 5-12 in 2024 and aim to make the playoffs for the first time in four years and end their six-year NFC North title drought. With young quarterback Caleb Williams entering his second season, and new offensive weapons added, Chicago looks to take a significant step forward in a tough division that includes the Packers and Vikings. The Bears face one of the tougher schedules in the NFL but are building a more balanced and competitive roster to contend in the NFC North.
Offensive Line Analysis
The Bears have completely transformed their offensive line in the 2025 offseason, now ranked as one of the top-5 units in the NFL by Pro Football Focus. Key additions include trade acquisitions Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, and free-agent signing Drew Dalman at center, all of whom are highly regarded pass blockers and run blockers. The starting five projected are Braxton Jones (LT), Joe Thuney (LG), Drew Dalman (C), Jonah Jackson (RG), and Darnell Wright (RT). This revamped line provides solid protection for Caleb Williams and supports a powerful rushing attack led by D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson. Depth remains a question mark due to some injury histories but overall this unit is a key strength for the Bears this season
Defensive Line Analysis
Chicago’s defensive line blends experience and youth with players like Montez Sweat leading the pass rush. The interior rotation features veteran presence with Kerry Hyder and promising contributions from Dexter and Billings. The edge rush includes additions such as Kpassagnon, Booker, and Robinson, which gives the Bears depth to keep pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The defense as a whole is being viewed as one of the more complete units in the NFC, supported by a strong secondary that includes Jaylon Johnson and Kevin Byard III. The line’s ability to stop the run and apply consistent QB pressure will be vital for Chicago’s success on defense.
2025 NFL Season
- Week 4 Review: Edged Las Vegas Raiders 25-24 with a last-minute defensive stop. Rookie QB Caleb Williams threw 2 touchdowns and showed poise in critical moments. Special teams blocked a field goal that helped determine the outcome.
- Key Events: Williamsโ clutch throws; resilient defense; game-saving special teams.
- Week 5 Preview: Visit New York Jets; Bears must improve offensive line cohesion and sustain defensive pressure against a tough Jets front
- Week 3 Review: Bears snapped a losing streak with a gritty 37-27 win over Dallas Cowboys. Rookie QB Caleb Williams started to find his rhythm with multiple touchdown passes, while the defense made crucial stops in critical moments.
- Key Events: QB progression evident, opportunistic defense.
- Week 4 Preview: Host another tough divisional game versus the Vikings. Bears aim to build on momentum and challenge Vikings early to improve their position in the division
- Week 2 Review: Suffered a crushing 52-21 home loss to Lions. Rookie QB Caleb Williams was under heavy pressure, completing 22/42 for 250 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. WR DJ Knox, despite minor ankle discomfort, had limited impact. Defense overwhelmed by Lionsโ multi-dimensional attack.
- Key Events: Offensive growing pains, protection issues, and defensive lapses deepen Bearsโ challenges.
- Week 3 Preview: Host the Minnesota Vikings; Williams will look to stabilize and defense must improve pressure situations to halt division slide.
- Week 1 Review: Tough overtime loss to the Vikings, 24-21, showcasing a competitive but inconsistent offense. Rookie QB Caleb Williams showed mobility but was erratic, completing 21 of 38 for 215 yards, 1 touchdown, and 2 interceptions. Defensively, they managed to pressure Vikings but failed late. WR DJ Knox suffered a minor ankle injury but should be available next game.
- Key Events: Rookie growing pains for Williams; defense needs to close late situations better.
- Week 2 Preview: Visiting the New York Giants, aiming to crack their first win behind improved offensive execution and defensive adjustments
Odds to Win Division and Super Bowl
Odds to win the NFC North stand at +550, making the Bears underdogs but not without a chance in a competitive division.
Odds to win the Super Bowl are +3500, indicating long-shot status among contenders.
Predictions
Predicted overall record: 7-10 or 8-9, showing a modest but meaningful step forward under new coaching and improved roster.
Playoff Chances: The Bears are longshots but could make a playoff push if Caleb Williams develops and the revamped offensive line stays healthy.
Super Bowl Chances: Challenging path expected; winning a Super Bowl requires overcoming numerous hurdles, including a tough schedule and division.
In summary, the Chicago Bears are in a competitive rebuild phase with significant offensive line upgrades and promising young talent. While longshots for a Super Bowl, their chances to improve significantly from 2024 are real, potentially contending for a playoff spot with an 8-9 win projection. Key factors for success include quarterback progress and health across the starting unit.