Story perspectives

Bears Get +15 Net-Rest Edge, Projected 10-7 Finish

5/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Bears' 2026 schedule was released on Thursday, May 15, 2026, giving a +15 net-rest differential, the highest since 2002.
The Bears face the sixth-hardest slate but have net-rest edge, travel and host games, including Week 8 at Seattle and a Week 15 Saturday matchup.
The Bears traded receiver DJ Moore to Buffalo, signed safety Coby Bryant and linebacker Devin Bush, and drafted safety Dillon Thieneman (25th overall).
Analysts project a 10-7 finish to win the NFC North.

History

Historical Context

After the NFL gave the 2002 Chicago Bears a +15 net-rest differential—the league’s strongest margin in decades—coach Dick Jauron’s team still fell to 4-12. The 2026 Bears inherit the same +15 advantage, far above the 2022 league average of +2, reviving the belief that a favorable schedule can reshape a franchise’s playoff prospects.

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Story summary

The Bears' 2026 schedule was released on Thursday, May 15, 2026, giving a +15 net-rest differential, the highest since 2002.
The Bears face the sixth-hardest slate but have net-rest edge, travel and host games, including Week 8 at Seattle and a Week 15 Saturday matchup.
The Bears traded receiver DJ Moore to Buffalo, signed safety Coby Bryant and linebacker Devin Bush, and drafted safety Dillon Thieneman (25th overall).
Analysts project a 10-7 finish to win the NFC North.

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