Chicago Bears shift expectations for the upcoming 2026 NFL season

The Chicago Bears enter the 2026 season with higher benchmarks following a 2025 campaign that included a division title and a playoff victory. With the season opener scheduled for one week away, the focus has moved beyond basic player development and fringe playoff contention. Expectations now center on sustained success and a deeper postseason run, specifically targeting an appearance in the NFC Championship Game. The team aims to establish stability with quarterback Caleb Williams and head coach Ben Johnson. Achieving these goals requires consistent performances from key pass-catchers and the emergence of a young defensive player into a feature role. The organization seeks to avoid the historical trend of failing to maintain consecutive playoff appearances, a hurdle the team has not cleared since 2006.

• 1:00 PMYahoo Sports — Chicago Bears Question of the Day: What defines a successful 2026?