The Chicago Bears entered the 2025 NFL season with modest expectations and familiar doubts. Preseason projections placed Chicago near the bottom of the NFC North, and an uneven 0-2 start only reinforced concerns that the franchise remained in rebuilding mode.
That narrative began to change as the season progressed.
Under first year head coach Ben Johnson the Bears established a more disciplined and efficient offense. Along with the development of second year quarterback Caleb WIlliams, who had a league leading 6 fourth quarter comebacks, the Chicago Bears have taken the crown of the NFC North. Turnovers increased on the defensive side of the ball, due to Pro Bowl players such as Kevin Byard III who had a league leading seven interceptions on the season. Meanwhile the offense showed more consistency, allowing Chicago to remain competitive week after week. What was once a losing season in September became one of the league’s most notable turnarounds by midseason.
“I definitely wasn’t expecting it,” said Collin Erb (12) “ I definitely had low hopes from the start.”
Youth played a key role in the Bears’ resurgence. Several rookies such as the Bears’ first round pick: tight end Colston Loveland, second round pick: wide receiver Luther Burden III and seventh round pick: running back Kyle Monangai, provide energy and production across the roster. Their development accelerated Chicago’s progress and gave the team a foundation to build on beyond the 2025 season.
As the wins accumulated, Soldier Field responded. Crowds grew louder and larger, with fans embracing winning football deep into the season. By November, the Bears were firmly in the playoff race, exceeding preseason expectations and forcing analysts to reassess their outlook.
“They did great during the regular season,” Collin Erb (12) said. “But in the playoffs we’ll see how good they really are.”
Chicago closed the regular season with its best record since 2018, and secured their first playoff berth since 2020. This marks a significant milestone for a franchise searching for stability. Once overlooked, the Bears entered the postseason viewed as a physical, disciplined team capable of challenging more established contenders.
With the Wild Card round on its way, the two seeded Bears were set to play their Division Rival the Packers at Soldier Field on Sat, Jan 10. Chicago’s road to the Super Bowl begins, as the last time and only time they saw their team win the Lombardi trophy was 1985.
The 2025 Bears have yet to deliver a championship, but they delivered something nearly as important: belief. After years of uncertainty, Chicago football has shown signs of direction and durability, signaling that the franchise may finally be turning the corner.
“This season has been great,” Charlie Hamilton (12) said. “I hope Ben Johnson’s coaching this year can set the baseline for more great seasons to come.”
