Another week, another loss, and another seven days of figuring out who is to blame for the current state of the Chicago Bears. Over a week ago, the Bears made an unprecedented move (for the organization, at least) and fired head coach Matt Eberflus after two and a half seasons that amounted to a win-loss record of 14-32. What cemented his firing was a clock management gaffe that saw the Bears waste two minutes off the clock and Eberflus failing to use the final timeout in his pocket. It was such a drastic error that no one inside or outside of Halas Hall assumed he would stick around. His reasoning for not using the timeout came off as more of a "dig" against rookie quarterback Caleb Williams than an admission of guilt. His exact words: “Yeah, uh... we liked the play, um, that we had. We were hoping that he was gonna... get the ball snapped, and then we would’ve called timeout.” His final post-game press conference was truly a word salad to end all word salads. Fans, pundits, and current Bears players alike knew how disastrous it was. Wide receiver Keenan Allen was even quoted after the game saying, “I feel like we did enough as players to win the game.” It was as damning an indictment against a coach and his practices as I have ever seen in my five years covering this team. Most of us on the beat knew that he was going to be fired, and while we had no sources ready to divulge his imminent firing, we knew it had to be coming. If you’ve been following and rooting for the Bears as long as I have, then you know that nothing is ever done smoothly at Halas Hall.

The next morning, I woke to an email from the Bears' communications staff with the Zoom link for Monday’s typical press conference. Unlike normal operations, we typically have the Zoom with captions that say, "HC Matt Eberflus Virtual Media Availability." For the first time, the email contained none of that. There was confusion around who was going to speak and why there had been secrecy. As sure as I live and breathe, I believed the Bears had actually done it. I was, instead, greeted with a familiar face in Matt Eberflus. He seemed to have no indication that he was being fired and proceeded to give the media a typical “coach-speak” press conference that teetered on not admitting fault while vaguely taking the blame. It was as “typical” of a Bears press conference as you can get, and it was a damning example of the incompetence that flows throughout this organization. To my surprise, however, the Bears did the unthinkable and fired Eberflus several hours later. They explained that they had been conferring all morning to make the decision and that it was not an easy one. I was too busy with my day job of being a high school teacher to attend the press conference, but Scott was there, and the only word he could use to describe it was: fear. He told me of the stunned look that rested upon General Manager Ryan Poles’s face and how CEO Kevin Warren appeared more like a disappointed father than an executive. It was emblematic of the Bears' experience: make the right move far too late and do it in an exceptionally terrible fashion. But hey, at least it happened, right? During this aftermath, offensive coordinator Thomas Brown (who himself was elevated after the Shane Waldron debacle) was promoted to interim head coach.

“What the hell did I do?” - Roger Smith - Ryan Poles

While the decision was a long time coming and absolutely necessary for the health of this fanbase and team, I can’t help but laugh at how spectacularly silly the implementation was. It’s almost as if this franchise is allergic to modernizing its football operations and behaving like an organization that knows what it’s doing. That notwithstanding, that is in the past, and the future is all I am concerned about. Well, that future is here now. The Chicago Bears played their first game of the Thomas Brown era, and it was fascinatingly terrible. The defense allowed Brock Purdy to post near-perfect passing stats in the first half, and the offense woke up for only two scoring drives before eventually faltering in the second half. It seems as if the solution to this problem is found in, once again, tearing away at the foundations of this current team makeup and starting from a position that is far removed from expectations. So, who will it be? Will it be Ben Johnson, Joe Brady, Brian Flores, Mike Vrabel? All four men are linked as the top coaching candidates for the Bears, and they have a chance to restore hope in a city that has desperately searched for it in their team for quite some time. However, before we can get to that, we must ask ourselves: who will be making these hires? Plenty of fans and pundits assume that Ryan Poles will stay on and draft another coach to lead Caleb Williams to greater heights, but I have a different question: why should he be allowed to do it?

Matt Eberflus was certainly not the coach the team needed, but his failures come off the back of the decisions that Ryan Poles has made. Whether it was the physical debacle from attempting to sign Larry Ogunjobi, the decisions to pursue skill players while not properly addressing the offensive line, or trying to find a competent defensive interior at a discount, Ryan Poles’s decisions have come to haunt the Bears' future, and I’m not sure that allowing him to do it again would be what’s best for this organization. I don’t fault George Halas for the decision to bring in people like Bill Polian to find competent coaching and management; the problem arises when you allow parts that are not working to continue attempting to. Ryan Poles has done a lot of great for this organization, and that cannot be understated. He is responsible for finding the Bears their franchise QB while also securing picks and players that led to DJ Moore and Rome Odunze. He’s done some damn good things. With that being said, his three-year tenure has been marked by inefficiency and poor planning, and it does seem to defy logic that he be allowed to continue down this path. If he is selected to continue, CEO Kevin Warren must set a standard of excellence that trickles down from his position to everyone else in the organization. Whether he will do that is anyone’s guess. The only thing Bears fans can do is hope for the best. After all, that’s what they’ve been doing for decades.

Rejoice Chicago, only 2 more home games left of this.

The Bears took on the Minnesota Vikings in an anticipated NFC North matchup and... once again fell to their opponent. It has become a trend over the course of my career as a beat reporter to report another Bears loss. This one, however, has followed a disturbing trend of late game decisions that have cost the Bears a crucial victory. The final score was 30-27 and it came after Caleb Williams led 3 drives to close the game, get an onside kick, then tie the game. Notable amongst the throws was a bullet to DJ Moore near the end of regulation to set the Bears up in field goal position. Unfortunately, it was all for naught, and the Bears fell to 4-7 on the season with their playoff hopes virtually gone. After the game, we caught up with head coach Matt Eberflus, who expressed frustration with how things played out but praised the “grit” and “determination” of his players. The offense battled back from a two-score deficit to force overtime against the Vikings, and it was due to the effort by rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. He finished 32-of-47 for 340 yards, two touchdowns, and no turnovers. He was able to spread the ball around to his skill players with DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, Cole Kmet, and Rome Odunze recording 7, 9, 7, and 5 receptions, respectively. Caleb’s footwork was efficient, and his throws were decisive. In a league where young quarterbacks struggle with adjusting to NFL passing “windows”, Caleb routinely found his man in tight spaces and placed it where they had a chance to make a play. As you can assume from the tone of this writing, this is where the good news ends.

Defensively, it was far from the performance you’d expect from such a talented group. Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold went 22-of-34 for 330 yards and looked comfortable all afternoon. The Bears' linebackers routinely plugged the wrong gaps, and the secondary allowed chunk play after chunk play. To make matters worse, the defensive front failed to generate any meaningful pressure. Defensive Coordinator Eric Washington loves to generate pressure with his front four, but they consistently failed in that marker. Normally a team would adjust to this with simulated pressure on blitzing more but the Bears chose to forgo that option. Matt Eberflus was hired with the expectation that, as a defensive-minded coach, he would solidify it and continue the Chicago trend of having an excellent group. However, as the NFL season progresses, it’s becoming evident that this group is nothing more than "bum slayers." For those unfamiliar with the term, it refers to defensive units that dominate weak opponents but collapse against competent teams. In back-to-back weeks, the Bears have allowed nearly five yards per carry to starting running backs while playing soft coverage, giving up huge plays in the game’s most crucial moments. The unfortunate highlight of the game was second-year wide receiver Jordan Addison torching the Bears' secondary for eight catches, 162 yards, and a staggering 20+ yard average.

Quarterback Sam Darnold—yes, the six-year journeyman—looked like a man reborn. It didn’t matter the quarter or the field position; Darnold consistently found the open man. Even though several of his throws resembled the infamous meme: “Fuck it, he down there somewhere,” his play was top of the line. While the Bears’ defense struggled, the coaching staff’s decision-making was equally baffling. In the first half, faced with a 4th-and-2, Eberflus opted for a field goal instead of keeping the offense on the field. To make matters worse, right tackle Braxton Jones visibly threw his hands up in frustration, seemingly unhappy with the conservative call. Later in the game, a similar situation arose on a 4th-and-4. This time, the field goal unit rushed onto the field only to be waved off by the offense. Eberflus later took responsibility, claiming he needed to get the play call in earlier. However, to outside observers, this looked like an offense outright ignoring its head coach and taking matters into its own hands. It’s emblematic of the entire Bears season: players and coaches on different wavelengths, resulting in heartbreaking losses. This marks the third game this year (after the Commanders and Packers matchups) where the Bears had late momentum, only to squander it in the end.

The lone bright spot for Chicago remains Caleb Williams and interim offensive coordinator Thomas Brown. In his short tenure, Brown has transformed the offense, moving away from confusion over play calls and personnel groupings to decisive, effective play. He’s used pre-snap motion to scheme players open and trusted Caleb to rise to the occasion in high-pressure moments. Caleb even noted that, in clutch situations, Brown tells him through the headset: “Go be Superman” and to Caleb’s credit, he’s delivered. Sadly, his Herculean efforts have consistently been undermined by the team’s shortcomings. On special teams, things aren’t any better. Kicker Cairo Santos has struggled with depth and accuracy, with one of his kicks blocked in back-to-back weeks. Such issues crush team morale, and the road ahead only gets tougher.

At this juncture in the season, where do the Bears go from here? With roughly 90 hours until their Thanksgiving matchup, there’s little time to implement meaningful changes. Eberflus commented, “The team will be in tomorrow, we’ll make corrections and go from there.” While this is typical “coach-speak”, he’s not wrong—there’s no luxury of time for reflection or overhaul. However, after Thanksgiving, the organization faces a crucial decision. With playoff hopes nearly extinguished, it’s time to send a clear signal that the culture is changing. That begins with moving on from the head coach. While this move won’t salvage the season, it would demonstrate to players and fans alike that the franchise is serious about developing Caleb Williams and building a winning team. Kevin Warren faces an uphill battle as he seeks to secure funding for a new stadium. A winning team would undoubtedly make that proposition more appealing to taxpayers and city officials. Expecting sympathy and understanding while fielding a subpar product is a fool’s errand—one that I’d hope Warren understands. He and general manager Ryan Poles have the power to salvage what remains of the season and build upon Caleb’s success.

At least, that’s what a good organization would do. But this is the Chicago Bears we’re talking about—so don’t hold your breath.

Welcome to hell, Chicago

I’m going to state the obvious: The Chicago Bears’ season is unraveling. What started as a promising 4-2 campaign with hopes for the playoffs, cheers of a competitive culture and a renewal of interest by the fans has spiraled into a skid that highlights the franchise’s longstanding issues. Perhaps none of these issues is more glaring than their inability to shed the “little brother” label when it comes to their storied “rivalry” with the Green Bay Packers. For the past 10 years, the rivalry has had a consistent setting; most years, Bears fans wait with anticipation for that autumn matchup against the Packers with thoughts of revenge on their minds. For Packers fans, it’s a tune-up game where they get to remind their “little brothers” about who is in control of this rivalry. Unfortunately for residents of the Windy City, the Big Brothers have reminded the Bears over and over about their place within this history.

Sunday’s 20-19 loss marked the Bears’ 11th consecutive defeat in the series, the longest streak in the history of a matchup that was once far more balanced. At this point, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to even call this a “rivalry.” After all, what defines a rival? According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a rival is “one of two or more striving to reach or obtain something that only one can possess.” In the NFL, teams strive for a division title, a conference championship, and ultimately, the Super Bowl. While you can occasionally bypass a divisional crown to achieve the other two, the goal is to secure all three—a mark of a truly competitive franchise. In a true rivalry, both teams act as barriers to each other’s success, fighting to achieve these shared goals. But when it comes to Bears-Packers, what have the Bears accomplished? Since 2014, they’ve claimed just one division title and beaten the Packers only twice. Meanwhile, Green Bay has consistently made the playoffs and relegated the Bears to irrelevance within the NFC North. For all intents and purposes, this isn’t a rivalry anymore. The numbers make that clear. The Packers now lead the all-time series 108-95-6, a commanding margin that reflects not just a recent trend but a seismic shift in dominance over the decades. The brutal truth is that the Bears haven’t beaten Green Bay in their last 10 attempts and rivalries thrive on competition, but this one feels more akin to an annual asswhooping than a rivalry.

This trend and these losses have left some unanswered questions: Where is the leadership? Where is the accountability? As with any struggle in sports, there comes a point when blame needs to be assigned. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, viewed as the future of the franchise, has shown flashes of brilliance but his development remains inconsistent—a reflection of the instability surrounding him. One week, he dazzles with performances like his four-touchdown outing against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The next, he struggles with bad habits, such as holding onto the ball too long or failing to take his checkdowns, as seen in the November 10th loss to the New England Patriots. While this inconsistency led to the firing of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, one wonders about the decisions that went into hiring Waldron in the first place . In Caleb’s first game without Waldron, he displayed impressive poise, clutch decision-making, and determination, sparking hope that he might still develop into the player Chicago desperately needs. But was his inconsistency simply a product of Waldron’s poor coaching, or does it point to deeper rot within the organization? That’s where head coach Matt Eberflus comes into focus. Under Eberflus’ leadership, the Bears’ flaws have only become more pronounced. Caleb’s struggles aren’t the first time this has happened to a young Quarterback. Justin Fields went through a similar process during his team, including struggles from the offensive coordinator role. So, when you add Justin’s & Caleb’s inconsistent development, it all reflects back on Eberflus’ decisions. Whether it’s questionable hirings, puzzling personnel groupings, or baffling in-game calls, the blame logically necessitates his inclusion. His puzzling decisions have been obvious during this current season. In Week 8’s loss against the Washington Commanders, Eberflus inexplicably allowed Washington to gain extra yards late in the game, setting up room for an improbable Hail Mary that stunned them. Then, in Sunday’s loss to Green Bay, he burned precious time by opting for a 40 plus yard field goal instead of trusting his offense to gain more yards for a closer attempt—or better yet, a touchdown.

“Tough Times don’t last, Tough People do” - Matt Eberflus

The Bears’ issues increasingly point to Eberflus’ struggles as a head coach, and these cannot be ignored any longer. For Chicago to move forward, the leadership at the top must be held accountable. The question now should not be whether Eberflus can right the ship, it should be about who can replace him so that the Bears can become a true contender because 3 years of Eberflus’s direction have failed to produce it.

That withstanding, pinning all the blame on Eberflus would miss the bigger picture. This team is a product of General Manager Ryan Poles’ vision. He entered the offseason with significant resources—ample cap space and draft capital—but the roster still feels incomplete. Poles opted to pursue high value skill players while ignoring the glaring holes on the offensive and defensive line. Those costly decisions have been apparent during this recent skid. The patchwork offensive he produced cannot protect Williams consistently, with them allowing a season high NINE sacks against the New England Patriots, which was coming off a 6 sack performance the week before. On the defensive side of the ball, the lack of interior pressure has allowed this talented defense to fold in critical moments. In their matchup against the Packers, their only sack came when Jordan Love scrambled towards the end zone, after he failed to find an open receiver.

This isn’t just about losing to Green Bay. It’s about what those losses represent. Rivalries are supposed to bring out the best in a team, to push them to rise above their limitations. Instead, the Packers games have become a microcosm of everything wrong with the Bears: poor execution, questionable leadership, and a glaring lack of identity. I’ve stated this numerous times during my time covering this team: Chicago deserves better. Bears fans, who hold the Bears to near religious significance in their hearts, deserve a team that matches their passion and resilience. Instead, they’ve been left with a franchise that can’t seem to get out of its own way. The clock is ticking for Poles and Eberflus. If they can’t right the ship soon, this season will end up being another tick in the hamster wheel from hell.

To break free from this frustrating cycle, the Bears need more than just tweaks—they need wholesale change. They need new leadership, a bold vision, and an unflinching commitment to accountability. While the Bears have slid into the role of lovable losers, their divisional rivals are moving in the opposite direction. The Detroit Lions, once the league's perennial punchline, have transformed into a powerhouse, poised to secure another division title and even contend for a Super Bowl. The Packers remain a consistent threat, and the Vikings—despite losing their first-round quarterback to injury—have rallied behind Sam Darnold and clawed their way into playoff contention.

These realities should light a fire under Bears President & CEO Kevin Warren. Brought in to usher the franchise into a new era, Warren must recognize that the transformation begins with assembling a staff that shares his passion, vision, and sense of urgency. Right now, GM Ryan Poles and HC Matt Eberflus have delivered a product that feels more like a relic of the past than a step toward a brighter future. The only question left now is simple: What will Kevin Warren do to turn this franchise around?

If you have spent your life, as I have, watching the Chicago Bears consistently on Sunday’s, you begin to wonder; Is football really as hard as the Bears make it seem? These are professionals who can do a job that most humans would fail at, yet, the Bears have a special habit of adapting slowly to changes around them and stubbornly holding onto anachronistic habits of competing. What complicates matters is the love that the Bears have within the city of Chicago. Whether you’re from within the city limits or the surrounding suburbs, Sunday’s are a holy day and there are few events that can take the average Bears fan away from their TVs on that day. Millions gather together with the hope and belief that this Sunday will be the one. Yet watching the Bears attempt to string together drives feels like watching a toddler try to solve a Rubik’s Cube. Even with these setbacks, Bears fans show up, week after week, pouring unwavering love into a franchise that repeatedly falls short. Sunday’s game against the Washington Commanders was just the latest disappointment in a season—and an era—filled with unmet expectations.

DB Tyrique Stevenson with a costly error in judgment

This game was marked by a familiar scene on the defensive side of the ball. The Commanders were able to move down the field and get within scoring range but were consistently held to Field Goals; the classic Bears “bend but don’t break” defense. Late in the 3rd quarter, rookie Caleb Williams was able to put together two impressive drives that saw the game’s first touchdown as well as the Bears first lead. With less than 30 seconds on remaining, the Bears were in prime position to escape Washington with a win. However, as Jayden Daniels completed his last-second Hail Mary attempt, Chicago fans experienced that all-too-familiar gut punch. Once again, it seemed like the Bears, a team with more than a century of history, fail to understand what it takes to be truly competitive. The game, as well as recent memory showed more of what fans have come to expect: there were flashes of brilliance here and there, sure, but as a cohesive unit, this team remains the “same ol’, same ol’.”

 A Tale of Two Quarterbacks

 Sunday’s matchup against the Commanders brought with it additional pressure as the matchup featured the past two season’s Heisman trophy winners as well as the 1st and 2nd pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. While the anticipation was high with them both coming off impressive weeks of football, Bears QB Caleb Williams struggled under pressure, completing just 10 of 24 passes as the Bears' offensive line failed to provide him with adequate time to pass, allowing him to be pressured on over 50% of his drop backs. In contrast, Commanders’ QB Jayden Daniels found time in the pocket, finishing with over 300 yards and a game sealing touchdown. The difference between these two former Heisman winners, couldn’t have been clearer. Daniels, who has smoothly transitioned to the NFL, has been allowed to adapt to the speed and talent of the professional level with an offensive line that gives him time and a skill group that understands his needs in the pocket. In addition, head coach Dan Quinn has allowed him to make full use of his skillset, winning on both the ground and in the air. Compare this to Caleb who, while equally given a skilled skill group, has been left with a makeshift offensive line and a coaching staff that hasn’t figured out how to gameplan for football in the modern era. A win against Caleb and the Bears has allowed familiar narrative to shape the national media; did the Bears choose the wrong quarterback?

It brings back memories of 2017, when the Bears passed on Deshaun Watson and Patrick Mahomes in favor of Mitchell Trubisky, a decision that has haunted them as Mahomes ascended to greatness. While Caleb Williams appears to be “the real deal”, Sunday’s loss highlights the trend of what it means to play football in Chicago. While other franchises adapt to the league around them and allow their players to develop at a consistent pace, the Bears find themselves having to undergo the same events in a much harder and less effective way.

 The Issue of Adaptation

 Adaptation has never been the Bears' strong suit. The team’s resistance to change is well-documented, from George Halas’ unwillingness to find coaching with more experience to Lovie Smith’s reluctance to abandon the outdated Cover 2 base defense. Chicago is a stubborn city, one that scoffs in the face of the title “second city” and it’s no surprise that her teams exhibit that same stubbornness. What is unacceptable within this, is a lack of discipline. An alarming trend of the this has permeated the tenure of Matt Eberflus. On the play before the Hail Mary, the Bears' defense left the sidelines exposed, allowing an easy 13-yard completion. Then, on the Hail Mary itself, rookie cornerback Tyrique Stevenson was more focused on taunting fans than covering his man. While these are professional athletes who are free to make their own decisions in and out of the game, it starts with the head coach. It is Eberflus and his coaching staff’s job to make sure their players are well prepared for their opponent and consistently disciplined in such a demanding sport. Whether it is momentum killing penalties or confusing playcalls, there has rarely been a time where the Bears seemed prepared for the game before them.

 The Bears’ consistency—or lack thereof—rests on Eberflus’s shoulders and eventually, there will need to be a level of accountability from him that showcases he is the person that will shift the Bears fortunes. Until then, he might only be a transitional figure, reminiscent of former Chicago Cubs manager Ricky Renteria. His teams were scrappy but ultimately incapable of taking the team to the next level and their fortunes did not change until Joe Maddon took over the reins. While Eberflus has built a defense that can keep games close, his handling of the offense has been a stumbling block. It is beginning to reach a point in the season where one wonders if he can competently remain the head coach without costing his time precious time and development.

 Chicago fans are known for their loyalty, but loyalty doesn’t mean complacency. Ryan Poles and Kevin Warren talk of change, but the results mirror the same old story. Until the Bears prove they’re serious about transformation, they’ll remain lovable losers. For now, their story is one of familiarity aka the “same ol’, same ol’.

It’s official: the Chicago Bears are once again marquee television.

For what feels like the first time since the Stone Age, the 4-2 Bears are a football team worthy of a national showcase. Their status was set Tuesday afternoon when the NFL announced it was flexing their Week 8 road matchup with the Washington Commanders to a 3:25 CST start. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, CBS’ top team of Jim Nantz and Tony Romo will be on the call next Sunday.

💪 news for Week 8:
— #Eagles vs #Bengals will now be at 1 pm, going to 70% of the country. Much greater distribution for the white out.
— #Bears vs #Commanders is now at 4:25.. and word is Jim Nantz & Tony Romo will call it for CBS. 👀
— CBS also has #Chiefs/#Raiders at 4:25.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 15, 2024

The late afternoon window, which over the years has become a quasi-primetime game with nationwide appeal for both CBS and FOX, has eluded the Bears over much of the past decade. Porous offenses and head-scratching coaching decisions will certainly force eyes across the country to lose interest.

But now, with a shiny new toy in QB Caleb Williams, and a tantalizing matchup with fellow top 2024 pick Jayden Daniels, Chicago is primed and ready to recapture America’s attention.

The Bears’ first six games of the season amounted to a slow burn for the Chicago faithful. With hopeful eyes, Bears fans watched in agony as the team - mainly its new-look offense - sputtered out of the gates. Williams struggled behind a leaky, mistake-prone offensive line. Offseason additions WR Keenan Allen and RB D’Andre Swift were either unable to play due to injury, or ineffective on the field. Old habits were hard to miss, whether it was guard Nate Davis’ lack of preseason reps, or head coach Matt Eberflus and his staff seemingly leaving their players unprepared for battle.

Then, everything changed.

Veteran leaders on offense, led by 40-year-old wonder and TE Marcedes Lewis, reportedly met with offensive coordinator Shane Waldron for a no-holds-barred meeting after a Week 3 debacle against the Indianapolis Colts. The offensive contingent laid it all on the line with Waldron, giving their unapologetic feedback on their sloppy, disjointed play. Lewis even intimated that Waldron was “walking on eggshells” as the Bears’ new OC.

One of the chief concerns of the meeting was the team lacking a script for the first 12-15 plays of each game during the first few weeks.

An opening drive script is critical for any offense looking to establish a rhythm in the first quarter. It’s essentially vital for a rookie quarterback seeing an NFL defense for the very first time.

And their lack of preparation showed. The Bears failed to reach 20 points in two of their first three games, and in the lone game during that stretch in which they did - a 24-17 opening week victory over the Tennessee Titans - 22 of the team’s 24 points were scored on defense and special teams. It was a classic Chicago Bears win, all things considered.

“Probably six out of the seven years I’ve been playing, I’ve had openers with 15 (scripted plays),” WR DJ Moore said during his Monday appearance with Mully and Haugh on 670 The Score. “So when we didn’t do it, everybody was a little thrown off – but we were going to make it work.”

Since that meeting, the Bears offense has not only taken off, it’s suffocating bad defenses. They’re averaging 31.7 points over their three-game winning streak, the club’s first since 2020. Williams has thrown 7 of his 9 passing touchdowns during that stretch, and is currently on pace to throw for more than 3,700 yards this season. Each win has seen a different offensive weapon step up, with Swift, Allen, Moore and TE Cole Kmet, who has provided a spark after not seeing much action in the first few games.

#Bears TE Cole Kmet is on pace for 74 receptions, 818 yards and 9 touchdowns this year.

Ever since Shane Waldron started including Kmet into their offense, the unit has turned around. I don't think that's a coincidence. pic.twitter.com/DEKQIr7COK

— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) October 16, 2024

The much-maligned offensive line has shown steady improvement over the winning streak. Veteran Matt Pryor has been favorable since replacing Davis at right guard. LG Teven Jenkins and RT Darnell Wright have played stand-up ball as of late. OG Bill Murray’s performance in the Bears’ Week 5 win over the Carolina Panthers had fans turning their heads.

The Bears could be forced to make some tough roster decisions following the bye week with the impending returns of tackle Larry Borom and IOL Ryan Bates, who had been battling with Coleman Shelton for the Center position prior to landing on injured reserve.

Trevor Lawrence talking trash?!?! #Bears CB Jaylon Johnson shut him up real quick 🙅‍♂️😭@NBAxJay1 @heykayadams @ChicagoBears pic.twitter.com/gLg68nNVJj

— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) October 15, 2024

The offense has perfectly complemented a defense that is restoring its Monsters of the Midway moniker. The Bears rank in the top 10 of all major statistical defensive categories. They’ve allowed 16.8 points per game this season, the fifth-lowest mark in the league, and forced the second-most takeaways (13) through six weeks behind the Green Bay Packers (17). They’ve also scored 47 points off turnovers, as the defense has continued to put the offense in premium spots to take advantage of their opponents’ mistakes. The last time the Bears allowed more than 21 points in a game was Nov. 19, 2023, when they blew a double-digit lead on the road to the Detroit Lions.

Both phases coalesced perfectly in this past Sunday’s 35-16 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. With a destination game and an exclusive window of football, Chicago overcame a slow first quarter to manhandle an inferior Jags team going through its own internal strife. An undermanned Bears defense forced two takeaways, with a third overturned on a bang-bang punch out by linebacker Tremaine Edwards. Williams had his best game as a pro, tossing a career-high four touchdowns (a fifth TD to Moore was ruled short of the goal-line). He bounced back from a brutal second-quarter interception - a mistimed lob to Moore that would have led to six with better placement -  making several elite-level throws, including a back-shoulder throw over the middle to Allen for a 9-yard score.

Back-shoulder dime ball!!!

Caleb Williams ➡️ Keenan Allen! TOUCHDOWN BEARS!!!

And the Bears are having tea and crumpets in jolly old London! 🇬🇧 pic.twitter.com/Xt9SGyVchh

— Braggs In The Stands (@BraggsInStands) October 13, 2024

"You just gotta keep going," Williams told NFL Network's Stacey Dales post-game. "There's going to be times throughout the game where there's plays that you don't like, plays that you messed up on like today. But to keep going, have the positive mindset, stay a constant communicator throughout the whole team -- offensive coordinator, everybody. And have, like I said, that positive mindset goes a long way for our guys."

Waldron’s gameplan has made noticeable strides. Opening drives are still challenging, but his play scheme and designs are getting more clever by the game, as evident in their first score in Jacksonville - a double fake screen leading to a throw up the seam to Kmet for a 31-yard touchdown.

.@ChicagoBears @CALEBcsw to @ColeKmet I am sure #DaBears and their fans have never seen this play before....nor this level of execution. This is just the beginning of FUN FUN FUN in Chi-Town #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/jQFtdtoHSl

— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) October 14, 2024

Overall, it was Waldron’s best game thus far. After the win, Eberflus praised Waldron’s growth and adaptability as an offensive coordinator.

"We had a good flow going”, Eberflus told reporters on Monday. “The offensive staff is really doing a good job of helping a lot of those ideas, and the execution piece with the positions…. but yeah, I thought he called a really good game."

While it hasn’t been a picture-perfect start to the Caleb Williams era in Chicago, it’s hard to imagine it going any better than this. Had you told Bears fans in April they’d be 4-2 entering the bye, a good chunk of them would’ve booked their February flight to New Orleans by now.

Sure there’s frustration with how they’ve opened ballgames, having trailed in every game this season. As T.J. Edwards told 670 The Score’s Bernstein, Harris & Rahimi on Tuesday, it’s an issue they’re focused on correcting.

“It’s definitely a point of emphasis for us, is kind of getting things rolling early”, Edwards said. “I think that starts confidence for our team, when you can do those things and score early.”

Per @ZebraSports, Chicago rookie Caleb Wiliams was one of just 3 quarterbacks to post a CPOE (Completion percentage over expected) over +10.0% during the #NFL's week 6 games. #Ravens: Lamar Jackson +14.1%#Bills: Josh Allen +12.7%#Bears: Caleb Williams +12.5%

— Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. (@wiltfongjr) October 15, 2024

The Lisan al-Gaib of Chicago has also had his fair share of ups and downs. However, unlike Caleb Williams’ predecessors, his confidence and resolve has instilled a sense of calm across the fan base. Long gone are the days of waiting on the other shoe to drop and for a Bears QB to break the hearts of fans everywhere. No more will a defensive stalwart serve as the team’s representative in primetime promotional material. Finally, there is stability at the franchise’s most important position, and that tranquility has trickled throughout the organization.

So enjoy the bye week, Bears fans. Breathe easy and bask in the glory of winning football, because after this week, the real fun begins. Expectations are back in Chicago. Finally, the eyes of the football world are back on the Windy City.

May irrelevancy never rear its ugly head at Halas Hall again.

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Pierce Roberson is an Emmy-award winning producer, writer and co-founder of the Barber’s Chair. He is currently based out of Philadelphia, PA. You can follow him and his work on X @CamronSanto.

For the first time in Barber’s Chair history, the gang went international. We made our way to London, England, and witnessed a truly once-in-a-lifetime event—and I must say, it was incredible. There was something special in the air. London felt vibrant, and the energy surrounding the game was infectious. Fans were loud, passionate, and embracing the rare opportunity to witness the NFL live. From my perspective, it was everything I could have hoped for.

Photo by Joe Lewis

My brother and I approached this game with different expectations. We weren’t entirely sure how this “home” game would play out for the Bears. Chicago was the first NFL team to play in London, so we knew some fans would be there, but we didn’t expect the overwhelming turnout we saw. As we approached the doors of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, it became clear—this wasn’t just any game. Bears fans from all over the world lined up, and although we were an ocean away from Chicago, the atmosphere felt as electric as Soldier Field on game day.

At a typical NFL home game, you expect to see a decent chunk of the crowd supporting the visiting team—not in London. It was like Soldier Field had been transported across the Atlantic. Bears jerseys filled the stands, not just the usual Caleb Williams jerseys, but the classics too—Walter Payton, Dick Butkus, and even deep cuts like Rashaan Salaam jerseys made appearances. This wasn’t casual fandom—this was love for the Bears that has endured for decades. To top it off, there was even a “Green Bay sucks” chant, just like you’d hear outside Soldier Field.

Outside of the Tottenham Hotspur stadium

As for the game itself, it couldn’t have gone better. Caleb Williams was phenomenal from start to finish. Whether he was manipulating the defense with his eyes, progressing through his reads with speed and efficiency, or keeping drives alive with his legs, Williams did it all. At points, it felt surreal. I began to ask myself, “Is this really happening?” I’ve seen good Bears teams before, but they were always missing consistent quarterback play. Sunday’s game showcased what could be a bright future for Chicago—a future where the offense is in sync with modern NFL trends, led by a truly generational talent.

Over the summer, I asked Bears fans to embrace the anxiety and fear about what this team could do. The first few games were tough, as the Bears struggled to find their identity. But as the weeks roll on and the offense solidifies, I ask fans once again—embrace the moment. There will be bad days for this offense; it’s inevitable. But they’ve shown enough flashes to believe in their potential. Chicago fans have endured hardship for so long, and this is what makes the NFL, and sports in general, worth it. So, enjoy your victory week, Chicago. Spend the bye week stress-free and come back ready for the Bears to continue this run.

With that said, this victory puts the Bears at 4-2. After the bye, they’ll face the Commanders, Cardinals, and Patriots, followed by an all-out divisional war. The Bears must heed the words of their head coach and use this bye week to prepare both mentally and physically. Because if there’s one group of teams that know you best, it’s your division, and the NFC North is no joke right now, with each team sitting above .500.

What we saw in London can’t just be a flash—it has to be the beginning of something special. For the city of Chicago, it’s long overdue. Bears fans across the world have waited for this moment, and as the team heads back to the States, one thing is clear—the Bears have fans everywhere, and their presence in London solidified that. London may be known for its soccer, but on that Sunday, the Bears were the main attraction. Here’s hoping we see more of this offensive brilliance as the season progresses.

The Chicago Bears bounced back after an embarrassing defeat the week prior with a 24-18 victory against the Los Angeles Rams, fueled by 165 total yards from running back D’Andre Swift, who also added a touchdown. Soldier Field was loud, hopeful and the the mood in the locker room, unlike last week, was filled with smiles, daps, and hugs among the players.

More surprising than the victory was the improvement from an offense that saw Caleb Williams lead four scoring drives. This was a welcome development during a time when offensive coordinator Shane Waldron had faced significant scrutiny for his play-calling decisions. So, what changed? The answer is simple, and it comes down to three words: Run. The. Ball.

Rookie QB Caleb Williams noted that the meeting with Shane Waldron helped to get them “on the same page”

Despite the absence of G Teven Jenkins, the Bears’ makeshift offensive line managed to create daylight for Swift, who had his best game as a Bear with 16 carries for 93 yards, averaging an impressive 6.0 yards per carry. The Bears' offensive struggles in prior weeks had been well-documented, but Swift’s standout performance highlighted the importance of leaning on the ground game, even at a time when the Bears' rushing attack ranked below the average (3.5). Football, for all its complexities, isn’t rocket science—it’s about executing fundamentals. Too often, the Bears have struggled to turn success into consistency, showcasing these flaws week after week. As with any significant change, there is a catalyst.

Fox insider Jay Glazer reported on a players-and-coaches meeting held early Sunday, where tight ends Cole Kmet and Marcedes Lewis, along with quarterback Caleb Williams, sat down with Waldron to address differences in offensive play-calling and execution. Caleb Williams expressed after the game that the main difference in the performance against the Rams was that the team was "on the same page" regarding the game plan's execution and implementation. Players only or coaches meeting have a well-earned “bad rep”. They consistently happen when a team is playing below their standards or on a skid but for all intents and purposes, this meeting seemed to help the team.

Though much of the spotlight was on the run game, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams continued to show progress. Despite being sacked three times, Williams received enough protection to facilitate a balanced attack. He displayed poise in the pocket, completing 17 of 23 passes for 157 yards and a touchdown. While his numbers won’t jump off the page, it was his decision-making and accuracy that stood out. Williams seemed more confident in his reads, consistently threading passes into tighter windows. One particularly impressive moment came on a 2nd down pass to Cole Kmet, which he lofted just over the defender’s hands to secure a critical first down. Week by week, Williams is showcasing improved mechanics, patience under pressure, and growing trust in his receivers.

This performance came in the wake of significant criticism aimed at Shane Waldron’s play-calling, with analysts—including myself—calling for more creativity and fewer predictable plays. In this game, Waldron responded. The shift to a run-first approach not only played to the strengths of the Bears' offensive line but also allowed the team to control the clock and wear down the Rams' defense. By moving away from an over-reliance on bubble screens and horizontal passes, Waldron gave the offense a more dynamic look. There was an emphasis on quicker releases for Caleb Williams, minimizing the Rams' pass rush and helping keep Williams upright. If Waldron can maintain this balance, it could unlock the full potential of this offense.

While the offensive improvements dominated the headlines, the Bears' defense quietly did its job. They displayed their trademark "bend but don’t break" mentality, allowing some chunk plays but tightening up in critical moments, particularly in the red zone. The defense managed to sack Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford twice and intercepted him once—although a second interception was called back. As The Barber’s Chair Network’s own Scott Lewis often says about Stafford: “He’s going to give you the ball back at least once,” and that’s exactly what happened when safety Jaquan Brisker picked him off to seal the game.

This win moves the Bears to 2-2 on the season and, more importantly, stops the bleeding, calming an anxious fanbase. The question now is whether the Bears can sustain this offensive balance in the weeks to come. Chicago is fortunate to have the next three games against struggling opponents—the Panthers, Jaguars, and then a bye week. If ever there were a time to create momentum and solidify their offensive identity, it’s now. While fans praised the offense after Sunday’s performance, the Bears are always one bad drive away from hearing the groans, boos, and frustrations of a fanbase desperate for consistency.

But for now, at least, fans can breathe a sigh of relief.

Photo by Nikhil Behal for the Barber’s Chair Network

Imagine this: you're on the couch, decked out in your favorite Bears jersey, drink in hand, food spread out in front of you. The TV is tuned to Fox 32 Chicago, and you're watching the Bears struggle offensively. Yet, the defense has staged an impressive comeback from three scores down, and victory is within reach. But, to your surprise, it’s not 2006—it’s 2024, and some things never change. The Bears' defense mirrored teams of old and  clamped down on the Tennessee Titans, holding them scoreless in the second half after being gashed by their run game early on. For the Titans, all gears were clicking in the first half: Will Levis showed flashes of brilliance and the run game gashed last year’s top ranked rush defense for over 100 yards.

The second half marked a turning point for the Bears as Levis, now in his second year, fell back into familiar mistakes, throwing two critical interceptions, including a game-sealing pick-six. While the defense “dusted off” the cobwebs and returned to its late 2024 form, on offense, Caleb Williams was far from electric, looking every bit the rookie adjusting to the professional level. His inexperience showed through out-of-sync throws, batted balls, and predictable reads. Still, there’s something this offense has that previous Bears teams lacked—real potential for growth.

Screenshot by Fox 32 Chicago

Consider Williams' stat line: 14-of-29 for 93 yards. One can imagine how different it could’ve looked had Williams connected on two open deep throws to Keenan Allen and DeAndre Carter, both with touchdown potential. Suddenly, you’re looking at 16-for-29, two touchdowns, and over 150 yards—a performance most would consider strong for any quarterback, let alone a rookie. Bears fans can recall past teams struggling to build offensive cohesion with lackluster talent across the line of scrimmage. This team, however, shows far more promise, and Williams' comments reflect that. After the game, I got a chance to ask how he would assess the offense’s performance today and he noted that “little things” disrupted the offense’s flow, and given the missed opportunities, it’s hard to argue otherwise. Less batted balls and throwing more with rhythm and timing and this becomes a two or three score win. This should be a sign of encouragement for Bears fans as some audibly groaned during the stagnant offensive performance.

Rookie QB Caleb Williams spoke about how the “little things will turn this offense around

 Special teams played a crucial role in boosting the Bears today. Cairo Santos was a perfect 3-for-3 on field goals, and punter Tory Taylor unleashed booming kicks that flipped the field in favor of the offense. But the true standout was returner DeAndre Carter, whose field-flipping returns set the stage for multiple scoring opportunities. However, questions remain about third-year player Velus Jones Jr., who continued to struggle in the return game, muffing a punt that gave the Titans prime field position for an early score. Despite some offensive growing pains and lingering questions, the Bears' 24-17 victory was powered by a relentless defensive effort. Defensive lineman Darrell Taylor, who was signed on August 23rd, made an immediate impact with two sacks and constant pressure on Will Levis. Head coach Matt Eberflus described Taylor in one word: “energy.” The stat sheet doesn’t fully capture his effect, as his constant disruption forced Levis into key mistakes.

This Bears defense has room to grow, but credit goes to GM Ryan Poles for assembling a unit that bends but doesn’t break. Which brings us back to the elephant in the room: the offense. This game made one thing clear—the defense will carry the team early in the season. While the mistakes on offense were fixable, expecting a swift turnaround in the next week or two is unrealistic. Caleb Williams is a rookie, and finding rhythm and consistency takes time. But there’s genuine hope for the offense, grounded in the talent surrounding him. With veterans at every skill position and play-caller Shane Waldron, who delivered a solid game plan despite some crowd frustrations, the potential is there for growth.

So, while this article may have initially drawn parallels to past years, this Bears team has the chance to break the mold. Bears fans might finally see a team that doesn’t just rely on a stout defense—but can win in all phases of the game. They’ll just have to be patient.

As the sun sets over Chicago's lakefront, the faithful fans of the Chicago Bears make their way home, each carrying a newfound sense of clarity. For some, today served as a hopeful reminder that the future shines bright for their beloved team. For others, the shadows of past disappointments linger, casting doubt over what could be. I found myself somewhere in the middle—torn between the hope for a true contender and the nagging fear that futility may forever define this franchise.

With these thoughts swirling, I place my earbuds in, hit shuffle on Spotify, and search for inspiration. As I begin to write, Kendrick Lamar’s voice emerges from the next track, striking me with his profound words. On his critically acclaimed album To Pimp a Butterfly, Lamar asks, "How much does a dollar really cost?" His exploration of the paralyzing tension between materialism and spirituality transcends the realm of sports, yet his question resonates deeply with me. Though I wasn't about to tackle a topic as monumental as Lamar’s, his reflection fueled my own as I sifted through the details of the Bears’ 27-3 preseason victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. A thought began to form, borrowing from Kendrick’s musings: "How much is a first down really worth?"

I take my mind back to the beginning of the game and the feeling of the stadium. What is a first down? It’s when a team gains the necessary yardage on any given down to reset the yardage and earn a fresh set of downs. Football fans understand this without pondering its ontology. Yet, a first down is worth more than simple yardage or downs. It is the fuel that fans spend their hard-earned money on—hundreds of dollars shelled out weekly just to hear those fabled words: “First down, Bears.” So how much is a first down really worth? On this overcast day at Soldier Field, with the sky a blanket of gray and a familiar sense of dread hanging over the lakefront, that question lingered in my mind. The Bears have long been the embodiment of Chicago's gritty, working-class ethos, and the fans in attendance were yearning for a spark—something to jolt them from their collective malaise. Unfortunately, the Bears were off to a rocky start offensively with several “three-and-outs” in a row, and the collective malaise was only becoming worse. Groans could be heard from the press box, hands thrown up in disappointed even during a meaningless preseason game. A spark was needed—something tangible.

Then it happened. Caleb Williams connected with wide receiver Nsimba Webster for a first down, and the atmosphere shifted. The crowd, previously subdued and skeptical, began to stir. A few plays later, they were on their feet as Williams launched a 45-yard completion. The transformation in the stands was palpable—fans who had been slouched in their seats, eyes glued to their phones, were now fully engaged, cheering and banging on the metal barriers that connect to the press box. The crescendo reached its peak when Williams scrambled for a touchdown, igniting an eruption of joy throughout the stadium.

So how much is a first down really worth? For Chicagoans, it’s priceless.

Chicago is a city built by the working class. Each week, countless people wake up early, don their work clothes, and head to jobs they often tolerate rather than enjoy. Besieged by monotony, Chicagoans brave the heat, the cold, and the storms to provide for themselves and their families. By Friday, they're rewarded with a weekend that feels all too brief. Saturday is spent unwinding—heading to your favorite bar, catching up with friends, and enjoying a well-deserved break. But Sunday? Sunday is sacred. In this city, it’s a day reserved for only two things: church and Chicago Bears football. In fact, it’s so sacred that you will find many pulpits of ministers in Bears jerseys, preaching as fast as they can, hoping to reach their TV in time to watch their beloved team.

While the preseason might lack the gravity of regular-season Sundays, that doesn’t diminish the importance of these games for Bears fans. Chicagoans still carve out time to watch, to hope, and to dream of a successful season. For them, the 2024 season represents more than just a series of games—it symbolizes the possibility of success, a promise that transcends the game and touches on something deeper: the desire to see their beloved Bears triumph before their time on this earth runs out.

So how much is a first down really worth? Everything. In a city that’s often divided, the Bears are the glue that binds people together, if only for one day a week. Outsiders may struggle to understand the almost religious reverence the Bears command here, but for those who’ve lived and breathed Chicago, it’s crystal clear.

Saturday’s preseason matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals encapsulated the Chicago sports experience—swinging between dreadful lows and ineffable highs. As I sit in the Soldier Field press box, with the echoes of today's game still fresh in my mind, I can't help but circle back to the question: How much is a first down really worth? For the Chicago Bears, it's more than just yards on the field—it’s a currency of hope, the price of possibility, and a measure of resilience in the face of relentless doubt. Every completed pass, every scramble for extra yards, every fleeting moment of success chips away at the fear and trauma that has plagued this franchise for decades. It’s in these moments, however small, that we find a reason to believe that maybe—just maybe—their destiny isn't carved in futility but in the pursuit of something greater. And that, to me, is worth every ounce of uncertainty that comes with watching this storied, yet beleaguered, team.

In fact, Sundays feel created just for this. For Bears fans, it’s impossible not to give in to that feeling of relentless hope, and I advise every fan to give into it. So, when it hits noon on a Sunday this season, toss on your favorite Bears jersey and turn your TV to Fox. Let the hope wash over you like a flood because, as the philosopher Randy Moss once said, “You can’t do nothing but get your roll on.”

As the summer heat in Lake Forest intensifies, so do some familiar challenges for the Chicago Bears. Stop me if you’ve read this before: the defense is off to a strong start and the offense is mired in growing pains. This time, however, there’s a new factor in the mix—Caleb Williams. With the highly touted rookie quarterback now at the helm, the Bears are aiming to move beyond simply competing and hope to become true contenders. The arrival of Williams brought with it a surge of optimism, as fans and analysts alike anticipated a revitalized offense. Yet, as the third week of training camp wraps up, we're left with more questions than answers, especially on the offensive side of the ball. Early in camp, Caleb Williams was releasing the ball quickly and decisively, even when a pass was tipped, or a turnover occurred.

His confidence and speed were evident. However, as camp has progressed, we’ve started to see more indecision from him. Plays are taking longer to develop, and the ball is lingering in his hands. As a result, the offense has become sloppy, and turnovers have begun to mount. On August 8th’s practice, Caleb threw two interceptions during the offense vs. defense series. Fans are understandably concerned, with some taking to Twitter, commenting on the 79th and Halas page with remarks like “shoulda kept Fields” and “it was a fun 4 months.” While the panic is setting in for some, the Bears' players see things differently. One of those viewpoints, came from veteran tight end Marcedes Lewis. During post-practice interviews, I was able to ask his own perspective on the offensive struggles:

“Well, I think for one, that’s what camp is for right? It’s just building up those callouses for war. When you say struggle it just depends on what vantage point you’re looking from, right? So, one day the defense can have an amazing day and the next day the offense can have an amazing day and then sometimes, we’re just gonna meet in the middle. I look at it as just experience and lessons.”

From my vantage point as a member of the media, I understand both perspectives. While I never competed professionally, I vividly remember the grueling two-a-days and training camps from my time at Curie High School as a member of the Condors. Some stretches of practice saw the defense dominating the offensive unit I was a part of. Others saw the offense consistently “beating on” the defense. On the other side of things, I sympathize with the fan who’s ready a significant change on offense.

Today’s camp saw members of the United States military taking what little free time they had to watch the offense compete with the defense. As mistakes piled up for the starters, audible groans could be heard from the bleachers. For many of the spectators, this might be an indication that things are not going according to plan, and I can relate to that feeling, remembering my own experiences from when I was younger. That being said, I believe the Bears are in a much different situation than in previous eras.

Fans should take a step back and hit “pause” on the panic button. This is not an endorsement of the Bears' current makeup but rather an understanding of how football works. Training camp is designed for these exact situations. The Bears' defense has had a year to come together as a unit, learning each other's strengths and weaknesses and Matt Eberflus' late takeover of the defense last year made for an easier transition to new defensive coordinator, Eric Washington.

On the other side of the ball, however, the offense is dealing with new wide receivers, new tight ends, a new running back, and a new quarterback, all under the guidance of a new offensive coordinator. A logical deduction would suggest the offense would naturally lag behind the defense. This is not to say that the Bears don’t have room for improvement or that fans shouldn’t stay vigilant for progress—both things should happen. But perhaps, some grace should be given to the Bears  right now.

While the offense is under the microscope, the defense is not without its own concerns. This week, injuries have sidelined key players like defensive backs Kyler Gordon, Jaquan Brisker, and Tyrique Stevenson, along with defensive lineman Montez Sweat. Head coach Matt Eberflus has listed these injuries as “day-to-day,” and judging by the players’ presence on the sidelines, participating in exercises, the prognosis seems cautiously optimistic. While these absences do raise questions about how prepared the Bears will be for Saturday’s preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills, Matt Eberflus has confirmed that available starters will play, which should provide some clarity on the team’s readiness.

With both sides of the ball facing their own challenges, Bears fans find themselves at a crossroads, unsure whether to lean into cautious optimism or brace for potential disappointment.  Patience is a virtue that has worn thin, and the anticipation for a breakthrough season is palpable. While uneasiness and even panic might start to creep in, the consensus within the organization remains one of optimism. I suggest that fans do the same. Knowing that only time will reveal how prepared the Bears are or aren’t.

Four years covering the Chicago Bears.

Four years. It can be bewildering to put into perspective all the work that this endeavor has entailed. It’s not a small number, yet not truly a large one either. Four years. What precedes those years are three decades of love and admiration as a fan. True “fan-ship” where Sundays as a child were a paradox between worshipping God at church but also getting home in time to watch the Bears play. Combine those and you have twelve thousand, four hundred and eighteen days of watching, cheering, crying, covering, contemplating, and sometimes wishing that this organization would truly change. 

I’ve seen cultures introduced then fall apart. I’ve seen hope turn to dread, dread turn into hope, dazzling displays of skill, and perplexing displays of incompetence. It's this “merry-go-round” that is the hallmark of what it means to be a fan of the Chicago Bears. It's believing in a team that doesn’t seem to believe in itself and loving a team that will consistently break your heart. Having experienced this for so long, we’re left with the question of why one would continue to come back after all this inconsistency and why would this year be any different? It crosses all the boxes of a typical Bears season. New quarterback? Check. A staff that is poised to have a breakout season? Check. A defense that is amongst the best in the league? Check.

The question you’ll have for me is then, why are you writing this article at all if nothing’s changed? You’d be right. From an outside perspective, nothing has changed. But after having spent years covering this franchise, I can tell you that everything has changed. Not only in the player personnel department, but in the highest echelons of this team. While not perfect, the echoes are change are evident. 

Three years ago, I sat at my computer during a season-ending interview with George McCaskey. He spoke about change and what was next for the organization, and there was a snarky grin on my face. Sort of a “here we go again” feeling as déjà vu crept into my mind. After another disappointing season, the Bears “brass” assured stakeholders that change was coming, but all fans could feel was discontent. Fast forward three years later, and an ineffable feeling of change is in the air.

This year seems to be different, and not the “this year is our year” difference that is the rallying cry of fans of Chicago sports, but a distinctive cultural and environmental shift. It could not have been clearer than it was today, as I walked from the Abbott parking lot into Halas Hall on Day 1 of the 2024-2025 Chicago Bears training camp. Fresh faces that I’ve never seen, from all walks of life, with a distinctive and confident grin on their faces that says, “something’s changed”. 

The Bears not only spoke about creating a successful and diverse organization, but they’ve created it. It echoes George McCaskey’s insistence that fair opportunity is key to a successful organization. What’s most striking is that at the top of the forefront of this change was a black general manager in Ryan Poles and a black team President in Kevin Warren. We’ve seen instances of the Bears declaring they changes they’ve made and how they’ll improve, but something is different.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the lightning rod of this seismic shift, quarterback Caleb Williams. His selection in of itself is a shift for a team; an electric, Heisman winning QB taken with the number one pick. While he’s not the first young QB expected to shake up the organization (as fans have seen this before), the situation that he’s found himself in is considerable. Three bona fide no.1 receivers next to him in DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze and a defense that ranked amongst the best in the league in the latter half of last season. The position Caleb Williams’ finds himself in has catapulted him into role where he’s looked upon as a symbol of hope for the city. He represents a promise of skill and confidence that Bears fans have desperately craved and whether he understands it or not, there is a considerable amount of pressure on him to change the Bears’ fortunes. 

This is not a declaration of a guaranteed change, in fact, it’s far from it. We’ve seen how far promises of change can take this organization. However, after covering the Bears for four years and seeing the highs and lows, the moments of brilliance, and the stretches of mediocrity. There is a different feeling that I can’t shake—one that suggests that the Bears might finally be on the right track. This season isn’t just about proving doubters wrong; it’s about proving to themselves and their fans that they are capable of greatness. That hopeful feeling that permeates the atmosphere cannot be denied but whether it’s justified or not, remains to be seen.

It’s April 27th,, and I’m currently at work proctoring an ACT exam for the students that I regularly teach. Their heads are glued into the exams with a nervousness that shows as their eyes dart from answer to answer. Yet, despite this nervousness, in the back of all their minds is an important thought: how will this affect my future? 

It's a defining Saturday—a day of reckoning not only for my students, absorbed in the decisive moments that will shape their future, but also for the Chicago Bears, who last week stood at a moment in time where the entire franchise could change. 

In the focused silence of this exam room, I see an echo of the Bears' past season—weeks marked by hopes of evolution and dominance yet mired in the marsh of outdated tactics and underperformance. Just as my students grapple with questions that will mild their academic futures, the Bears' recent choices in the 2024 NFL Draft have been a test of strategy and foresight, leaving fans yearning for a revolution in the team's circumstances.

How did we reach this point in time? Let's revisit the day of December 31st, 2023. On The Carolina Panthers lost 26-0 to the Jacksonville Jaguars, plummeting to a god awful 2-14 record, which secured them the No. 1 pick. Due to a trade that delivered the Panthers the young quarterback, Bryce Young, the #1 pick in the 2024 draft belonged to Chicago and the Bears found themselves with the chance to make a potentially franchise altering decision. 

The choice was between “a rock and a hard place”: you stick with starter Justin Fields, whose playmaking and passing abilities were starting to develop into the player that fans had been dreaming of or you reset the “quarterback clock” by potentially acquiring Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams out of the University of Southern California. 

Such decisions, fraught with the need for change, divided the fanbase, media, and outsiders alike. Some, including myself, believed that Fields was on the cusp of being “a guy”. The desire that fans had envisioned upon him when he was drafted to the Bears. Yet, others contended that too much time had elapsed, and a fresh face was needed to lead the team.

Now, let’s fast forward to March 16th, 2024. On this day, Chicago Bears have embraced a new chapter. Justin Fields, who was once considered the cornerstone of this franchise, has been traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, a movie that signaled that the Bears were ready for a new start. It’s a shift that feels familiar, akin to the nervous anticipation my students face with their ACTs—where they face a mixture of apprehension and the weight of potentially promising future. 

The Bears history since the lauded 1985 Super Bowl winning season has been a tumultuous one, often falling short of fans (sometimes unreasonably) high expectations. To cope with this knowledge, some fans have elected to remain paranoid of the possibility of future disaster as the errors of the Bears past envelop their minds. 

On the opposite end of the coping spectrum, there's a faction of the fanbase that see a franchise reborn, unburdened by the echoes of past failures and disappointments. I find myself in the middle, not oblivious to the errors of the past but filled with a reasonable hope of a bright future.

This hope has come not in the belief that every player will be a star but in the decisions made by Chicago Bears General Manager Ryan Poles. His tenure, while not perfect, has been marked by patient and strategic decisions—from bolstering the defense with talents like Kyler Gordon and Jaquan Brisker to savvy acquisitions in DJ Moore, Montez Sweat, and Keenan Allen.

This bolstering culminated on April 25th, 2024 with the drafting #1 pick Caleb Williams and the selection of the 9th pick in Rome Odunze out of the University of Washington. Calculated moves such as these paint a portrait of an organization not just dreaming of greatness, but laying its groundwork. This moment in time leads me to following question for fans of the navy & orange: When do we let go of the fear of past failures and embrace the potential of a new era? 

The Bears, reflective of my students' earnest approach to taking the ACT, have approached the future with determination and thorough preparation. The only action left for both of them is to await the results with a hopeful anticipation.