Chicago Bears and Carolina Panthers prepare for Week 1 matchup

The Chicago Bears and Carolina Panthers are set to face each other in their Week 1 season opener. The matchup features a battle between two former No. 1 overall draft picks: Bears quarterback Caleb Williams and Panthers quarterback Bryce Young. Both teams are coming off division-winning seasons in 2025.

The Chicago Bears are managing several injury concerns heading into the game. Safety Xavier Woods is listed as questionable due to a groin injury, and wide receiver Rome Odunze is also questionable while recovering from a calf injury, though Odunze has expressed optimism about playing. Additionally, offensive lineman Ozzy Trapilo and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett are also on the injury report.

On the defensive side for Chicago, rookie defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg has emerged as a notable preseason performer. The Panthers enter the game with a focus on their offense under coach Dave Canales, looking to continue the development of Bryce Young following the team's recent division title.