Full Breakdown
Chicago Bears' Future: Optimism Amidst Coaching Changes and Rival Challenges
1/21/2026, 9:08:10 PM
Season Overview and Coaching Philosophy
The Chicago Bears concluded the 2025 NFL season with a notable turnaround, finishing with an 11-6 record and winning the NFC North for the first time since 2018. However, their playoff journey ended in disappointment as they lost 20-17 to the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round. Head coach Ben Johnson emphasized the need to reset and focus on fundamentals in light of this loss, stating, “There is no building off of this. We go back to square one.” This perspective reflects a commitment to maintaining the team's progress rather than resting on past achievements.
Coaching Staff Changes
Following the playoff exit, the Bears experienced significant changes in their coaching staff. Notably, running backs coach Eric Bieniemy departed to rejoin the Kansas City Chiefs as their offensive coordinator. This move comes after a successful season under Bieniemy, who helped the Bears achieve a top-ten offense and develop key players like D’Andre Swift and rookie Kyle Monangai. In response to Bieniemy's exit, the Bears are reportedly considering Boston College offensive coordinator Will Lawing for a position on Johnson's staff, indicating a proactive approach to enhancing their offensive capabilities.
Rival Teams in Transition
The Bears' prospects for the upcoming season are bolstered by the challenges faced by their NFC North rivals. The Green Bay Packers lost defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley to the Miami Dolphins, while the Minnesota Vikings are grappling with potential departures of key defensive coaches, including Brian Flores, who is a candidate for the Pittsburgh Steelers' head coach position. These coaching changes could create opportunities for the Bears to solidify their position in the division, as both rivals will need to retool their defenses.
Player Performance and Future Decisions
Amidst these changes, the future of wide receiver DJ Moore remains uncertain. General manager Ryan Poles acknowledged Moore's contributions but did not commit to his long-term role with the team, citing a need for improvement and a potential salary cap crunch. Moore's performance in the 2025 season was below expectations, leading to speculation about his fit within the Bears' evolving roster. The Bears have young talents like Colston Loveland and Luther Burden III, which may influence their decision regarding Moore's future.
Conclusion: A Path Forward
As the Bears look to build on their recent success, they face the dual challenge of improving their roster while navigating the shifting dynamics of the NFC North. The departures of key coaches from rival teams present an opportunity for the Bears to establish dominance in the division. However, the organization must remain vigilant in addressing its own roster needs and ensuring that the momentum gained in 2025 translates into sustained success in the upcoming seasons.
