Chicago Bears Aim for Rebound in 2025 After Disappointing 2024

The Chicago Bears and their fans are eagerly anticipating the 2025 NFL season, hoping to put the bitter taste of their 2024 campaign behind them. What began as a promising year quickly unraveled, leaving the team searching for answers and a new direction.

In the early stages of the 2024 season, the Bears showcased signs of potential, compiling a 4-2 record and generating excitement about a possible wild-card berth. The team seemed to be clicking, and optimism was growing in the Windy City. However, a pivotal Week 7 matchup against the Washington Commanders proved to be a turning point, sending the Bears spiraling downward.

Leading in the waning moments of the game, the Bears suffered a crushing defeat when Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels completed a miraculous Hail Mary pass. This improbable play not only secured a victory for Washington but also ignited a spark that propelled them on an unexpected run to the NFC Championship game.

For the Bears, the Week 7 loss marked the beginning of a downward spiral. The team endured a devastating 10-game losing streak, shattering any hopes of a playoff appearance. The disappointing performance led to significant changes within the organization, as head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron were both relieved of their duties. The Bears plummeted to the bottom of the NFC North standings, leaving fans frustrated and searching for answers.

Recognizing the need for a fresh start, the Bears embarked on a mission to revitalize their team during the offseason. The most significant move was the hiring of Ben Johnson, the highly sought-after former offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions. Johnson was widely regarded as one of the top coaching candidates in the league, and the Bears are banking on his ability to transform their inconsistent offense into a formidable unit.

The Bears’ vision is to establish a long-term partnership between Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams, whom they hope will become the face of the franchise for years to come. Williams, a highly touted prospect, possesses the talent and potential to lead the Bears to success. The organization is investing heavily in his development, providing him with the necessary tools to thrive in the NFL.

In addition to hiring a new coach, the Bears prioritized upgrading their offensive line, recognizing its importance in protecting Williams and establishing a strong running game. The team made significant acquisitions, trading for guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney, both proven veterans with a track record of success. They further solidified the unit by signing center Drew Dalman to a lucrative contract.

The Bears continued to bolster their offensive line in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo from Boston College in the second round. Trapilo is a promising young player with the potential to become a cornerstone of the offensive line for years to come.

The Bears also addressed their need for additional offensive weapons, using their early-round draft picks to add tight end Colston Loveland and receiver Luther Burden III to their arsenal. These talented rookies will join a receiving corps that already features established players such as DJ Moore, Rome Odunze, and Cole Kmet, giving Williams a diverse and dynamic group of targets.

With the arrival of Johnson, the revamped offensive line, and the addition of new offensive weapons, the question remains: can the Bears’ offensive upgrades propel them to the next level?

USA TODAY Sports has released its record prediction for the Bears as the 2025 NFL schedule release approaches, forecasting an 8-9 record for the team. This prediction reflects the uncertainty surrounding the Bears’ prospects, as they embark on a new era under Johnson’s leadership.

The Bears’ potential outcomes for their first season under Johnson’s tutelage are wide-ranging. If everything clicks and Williams flourishes in Johnson’s offensive scheme, Chicago could emerge as a surprise wild-card contender in the NFC. The team’s success hinges on the quick development of Williams and the ability of the new offensive pieces to gel together seamlessly.

However, the Bears face a significant hurdle in their quest to reach the playoffs: a challenging schedule. According to Sharp Football Analysis, the Bears have the seventh-hardest strength of schedule in the NFL for the 2025 season. This daunting schedule includes a particularly tough stretch of road games, with matchups against six teams that made the playoffs last season: the Commanders, Eagles, Lions, Packers, Ravens, and Vikings.

In addition to these playoff teams, the Bears also face road games against the Bengals and 49ers, both of whom have been consistent playoff contenders in recent years. The Bears’ ability to navigate this difficult road schedule will be crucial in determining their overall success.

While the road schedule presents a formidable challenge, the Bears should fare better at home. They have winnable games against the Giants and Saints and will likely provide their divisional opponents with a tougher test at Soldier Field. The Bears’ ability to protect their home turf will be essential in securing victories and improving their record.

Despite the significant upgrades made to the offense and the arrival of a highly regarded coach, the most likely outcome for the Bears in 2025 is a record close to .500. While they may exceed expectations if the offense comes together quickly, it is more probable that the Bears will take a step toward contention rather than becoming a true contender this season.

The 2025 season will be a crucial one for the Chicago Bears as they look to establish a new identity and build a foundation for future success. The team’s performance will depend on the development of Caleb Williams, the effectiveness of Ben Johnson’s offensive scheme, and their ability to overcome a challenging schedule. While a playoff berth may be within reach, the most realistic expectation is a season of growth and progress, setting the stage for a brighter future in the Windy City.