Chicago Bears defense shows strength despite linebacker concerns

The Chicago Bears' defense has shown unexpected strength early in the season, allowing only 16 points over the last two games. While the pass rush and secondary—bolstered by rookies Dillon Thieneman and Malik Muhammad—have improved, the unit faces a significant weakness at the linebacker position. Current starters T. J. Edwards and D’Marco Jackson have combined for only 15 tackles, while rookie safety Thieneman has recorded 17. This lack of production at linebacker has contributed to the team ranking last in the league in run stop win rate.

General Manager Ryan Poles' decision to overhaul the secondary appears to be vindicating his roster strategy. Despite criticism for allowing former defensive backs Kevin Byard III and Nahshon Wright to leave in free agency, both players have struggled with their new teams. Byard has yet to record a takeaway for the New England Patriots, and Wright has struggled to secure playing time with the New York Jets. This suggests the Bears' previous statistical success was partially due to inflated numbers from players who were vulnerable in coverage.