Chicago Bears head into new season with expectations for growth

The Chicago Bears enter the 2026 season with high expectations centered on head coach Ben Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams. Supporters point to the duo as the foundation for a perennial playoff contender, marking a shift in the franchise's trajectory. While questions persist regarding the defensive line depth, the team aims to establish stability at the most critical positions. Comparisons to elite coaching and quarterback tandems elsewhere in the NFL highlight the perceived improvement in leadership. The team seeks to build on previous postseason appearances and sustain success under this new direction. Analysts emphasize the importance of this pairing in securing the organization’s long-term competitive position.

• 12:00 AMYahoo Sports — Caleb Williams, Ben Johnson, Chicago Bears about to take fans on a fun ride