Which Bears Players Could Surprise Fans the Most in 2026?
The Chicago Bears enter the 2026 season with higher expectations than in years past. Every team in the NFC continues to improve, making it increasingly difficult for Chicago to compete with the best. If they wish to do this, the roster needs to improve from last year. Much of the attention will be focused on established stars and key offseason additions, but every successful team also gets unexpected contributions from players who take a major step forward. Whether it is a young player breaking out or a veteran finding a larger role, the Bears have several candidates who could exceed expectations this season.
Braxton Jones
The left tackle position has the potential to be one of the most important battles this offseason. Starter Ozzy Trapilo is expected to miss at least the start of the season, if not the whole year. With this in mind, Chicago has examined all options to find a capable replacement. Braxton Jones has popped up as one of the most popular names. Many fans are familiar with him, as he has started 44 games over four seasons.
The 27-year-old entered last year as the starter before getting benched and then suffering a season-ending injury. He is now set to enter 2026 fully healthy, which is one of the best things an athlete can wish for. As of now, Jones is projected to be the starter, and Ben Johnson has already praised his work and said he seems healthier than ever. Despite being down two starters, Chicago still has a strong offensive line. Being combined with an elite guard helps cover some of his previous issues. If the Utah native can stay on the field, his familiarity with the system and elite players next to him could help him have a breakout season.
Tyrique Stevenson
Tyrique Stevenson enters 2026 with plenty to prove after an inconsistent start to his career. The former second-round pick has flashed the physical tools that made him a highly regarded prospect. However, he has struggled at times with consistency in coverage. Despite those ups and downs, the Bears continue to believe in his long-term potential and have kept him in a significant role within the secondary. The hope now is that the Florida native can build on his potential and have a career year.
Now entering his fourth season, the 26-year-old has a chance to take a major step forward. Similar to Jones, Stevenson is entering 2026 fully healthy. Also, he has had time to become more familiar with the system. The 2023 56th overall pick has already shown an ability to create turnovers and make impact plays when at his best. If he can become more reliable from week to week, he could emerge as one of the biggest surprises on the defense and finally establish himself as a cornerstone piece of the secondary.
Grady Jarrett
Grady Jarrett could end up being one of the Bears' biggest surprises in 2026. Chicago signed the veteran defensive tackle last offseason to strengthen the middle of the defense. While he has been a productive player throughout his career, 2025 was a disappointing year. Many fans now question how much the 33-year-old has in the tank. Jarrett has consistently been one of the league's most reliable defensive linemen when healthy. His experience and leadership should also provide value beyond the stat sheet.
After a busy offseason in Chicago, the Georgia native now has a better defense surrounding him. That support could allow him to focus on creating pressure and making plays in the backfield. He does not have to be the best player on the defense, just a quality option. The former fifth-round pick has shown throughout his career that he can still disrupt opposing offenses. The former Atlanta Falcon should also benefit from playing alongside an improved secondary, which makes opposing quarterbacks hold onto the ball longer. If he stays healthy, Jarrett could remind everyone why he was one of the Bears' top offseason additions in 2025.
The Bears have plenty of star power heading into the 2026 season, but unexpected contributors could be just as important to their success. Jones, Stevenson, and Jarrett each enter the year with different questions surrounding their futures. However, all three have the talent and opportunity to exceed expectations. If even one or two of them take a significant step forward, Chicago's roster will become much more dangerous. Their performances could play a major role in determining how far the Bears can go this season.
