Chicago Bears prepare for 2026 season following recent division title
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 12:00 PM
Last updated Sep 9, 2026
The Chicago Bears open the 2026 season following a 2025 NFC North championship under head coach Ben Johnson. After a volatile 2024 season that saw the firing of former head coach Matt Eberflus, Johnson implemented a new team culture to guide quarterback Caleb Williams and the roster. General manager Ryan Poles prioritized speed during the offseason, adding players such as linebacker Devin Bush and safety Coby Bryant, though Bryant will miss the season opener. The team also utilized the draft to add defensive help and offensive depth, including first-round safety Dillon Thieneman. While the organization maintains a conservative approach to personnel compared to previous rebuild years, it aims to capitalize on last season's progress. The team has not recorded consecutive playoff appearances in two decades as it heads into the new schedule.
- •Ben Johnson returns as head coach after leading the team to a 2025 division title.
- •Safety Dillon Thieneman joins the roster as the team's first-round draft selection.
- •Coby Bryant is sidelined for the start of the regular season.
- •The front office added depth through free agency, including linebacker Devin Bush.
- •The 2026 campaign marks the next test for quarterback Caleb Williams under the current staff.
- 12:00 PMYahoo Sports — 2026 Chicago Bears Season Preview: The Hunter is now the Hunted
"A new year brings new expectations. Following their NFC North title in 2025, the Bears are now the hunted. @AaronLemingNFL previews the season.
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