The 2026 season has started weirdly for the Chicago Bears. Week One saw an offensive explosion, but it was paired with a poor defensive performance. Week Two was a poor effort all around, as Chicago was held to three points. Nothing went right, but the worst was Caleb Williams' injury. However, the show must go on. If the Bears wish to rebound and beat the Eagles in Week Three, a few players need to break out.
Colston Loveland
One of the biggest questions for the Bears offense has been where Colston Loveland has been. The former first-round pick was one of the most talked-about tight ends this past offseason. His rookie year showed his potential, and many thought he would grow into a superstar tight end. However, 2026 has been a different story. Loveland only has one catch for three yards.
The lack of production is not entirely his fault, as he has five targets. Chicago needs a breakout from him. They will have a backup quarterback starting this week, and a tight end is a nice safety blanket. Loveland's athleticism and pass-catching ability can help change a game. Additionally, a breakout game will take pressure off the other pass catchers. The 22-year-old tight end is a solid blocker, but without production in the pass game, the Bears offense will struggle.
Garrett Bradbury
Staying on the offensive side of the ball, the offensive line had a rough game this past week. They struggled to hold up in the pass game and had too many penalties. The biggest example of this was Garrett Bradbury. His four penalties and poor snaps held the offense back. It was not a good showing, and the Bears need better. Even though the offensive line looks different, it was still expected to be strong. Playing with a backup, or maybe third-string quarterback, means the center needs to show up. If Bradbury can snap cleanly and record fewer penalties, it will make the quarterback's life easier.
Jaylon Johnson
On the defense, multiple players need to step up. However, Jaylon Johnson deserves the focus this week. Chicago's secondary has struggled to hold up in pass coverage, and much of the blame falls on the veteran cornerback. Johnson had a good offseason, and many hoped he would rebound this year after a rough 2025 season. He struggled in Week One, as he could not hold up against any of the Panthers' young receivers. Week Two, he looked a bit better, but the Vikings did little in the passing game.
Chicago needs a breakout from Johnson in Week Three. The Eagles are a talented team that can score points quickly if needed. It will be hard for the Bears offense to keep pace. If the 27-year-old cornerback can flash his former elite self, the secondary looks much better. Johnson has shown he can hold his own against most receivers. An improved secondary will also give the defensive line more time to generate pressure. If he is unable to break out this week, it is hard to see the defense being solid enough to compete.
Final Analysis
The focus this week will be who starts at quarterback. However, the Bears need breakouts from a few of their key players. Loveland needs to be more involved in the passing game. Thuney needs to play cleaner to help solidify the offensive line. Johnson will look to help the defense turn a corner in Week Three. Even just one or two of these players showing up could go a long way in making it a competitive game. If all three play poorly, Chicago may be looking at another loss.
