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Bears slapped with laundry list of concerns ‘likely to get worse’ in 2026
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- Bears slapped with laundry list of concerns ‘likely to get worse’ in 2026
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The Chicago Bears have their hands full, to say the least. Where they will play remains up in the air as lawmakers cannot agree on a new stadium deal .
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Meanwhile, their on-field dilemmas remain an issue heading into the 2026-27 NFL season, per ESPN. Despite winning the NFC North and getting to the Divisional Round , they have some particulars to work through.
Beginning with their defense without Kevin Byard , after he was traded to the New England Patriots .
"The Bears had a poor defense last season and check a lot of boxes that suggest it will get even worse in 2026," ESPN said. "Much better on third down than first or second down? Likely to get worse. Led the league in turnovers per drive? Likely to get worse. Lost talent in the offseason including both starting safeties, one of whom ( Kevin Byard ) was a first-team All-Pro? Likely to get worse.".
At the same time, their offense, led by Caleb Williams , can continue to improve despite losing Drew Dalman and DJ Moore .
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"The offense should improve in the second season with coach Ben Johnson , even despite the loss of center Drew Dalman and wide receiver DJ Moore . However, it will need to be very strong to overcome the defense and go 12-5 or better."
In March, Dalman retired after signing a $42 million contract, and Moore was traded to the Buffalo Bills .
ESPN predicted that Williams would win the NFL MVP award in their 10 bold predictions category. They also stated that rookie center Logan Jones would be in position to take over for Dalman. Tight End Colston Loveland is poised to step into the void left behind by Moore.
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Related: 2 hidden gems on 2026 Bears roster you need to know
