Chicago Bears target continued success in 2026 season

The Chicago Bears finished the 2025 NFL season as NFC North champions and the No. 2 seed in the conference, but were eliminated in the divisional round. Entering 2026, coach Ben Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams are expected to build on that momentum.

Wide receiver Luther Burden III has been highlighted as a potential breakout player. CBS Sports noted that Burden “averaged 2.71 yards per route run, third‑highest out of the 152 wide receivers who ran at least 100 routes,” and could see his role expand with the departure of DJ Moore. The Bears also added draft picks Zavion Thomas and tight end Sam Roush to bolster the offense.

Analysts anticipate the Bears will avoid regression, despite a tough schedule, and aim to improve on their 2025 performance.