Is the Bears Rebuild Ahead of Schedule?
After a rough few seasons, the Chicago Bears are competitive once again. They have won their last three games and are now 7-3 on the year. Ben Johnson has completely turned this franchise around and deserves recognition for it. Not only has the team gone from the bottom of the division to being in the playoff picture, but they have done so in just one year. This immediate success may have the team on the doorstep of their next era faster than many thought.
2024 was a rough year for Chicago. They won only five games and seemed to find new ways to lose every week. The season started with hope as they were 4-2, but they then lost 10 games in a row. Matt Eberflus was fired during the season, as the team was plagued by drama and lacked effective leadership. Even with the hiring of Johnson, who was one of the top head coaching candidates, it seemed that the Bears would need some time to improve. However, what followed was a rapid turnaround that few predicted.
This began with the roster, making major changes. First, they nearly completely remade the offensive line. These improvements may be the most influential of them all, as they turned the line from their biggest weakness to arguably one of their biggest strengths this year. Additionally, the team drafted tight end Colston Loveland in the first round. His role is growing each week as he has 24 catches for 329 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bears now rank in the top 10 in both points per game and yards per game, which is something they have not done in a long time.
Unfortunately, the defense has not been as good. They allow 26.4 points per game, which is the seventh most in the league. It may not be fair to fully judge yet, as they have had major injuries every single week. The fact that they are still finding ways to win is proof of the improved effort and talent under Johnson. Part of this success is due to the Bears leading the league in interceptions with 15. They are also set to get some much-needed reinforcements in the secondary. Star corner Jaylon Johnson is nearing a return, and Kyler Gordon is not far behind. These returns could be enough to bolster the defense for a playoff push.
Speaking of the playoffs, if the season ended today, Chicago would win the division. Based on last year's struggles, this is not something many would have expected this year. However, there is still plenty of season left to play, and the team is entering a stretch of tough opponents. Obviously, making the playoffs is the dream, but even if they don’t, there are promising signs for the future. With key players developing and chemistry building, the franchise is well-positioned for sustained growth and success.
Looking ahead, the next few games will reveal how far the Bears have come. It will also determine what else is needed to turn the team into playoff contenders. The progress is undeniable, and fans finally have a reason to believe the rebuild is working. Regardless of how the record turns out, momentum is being built. The culture has changed, and now it may be time to realize the franchise is building a winning identity.
