The Bears have spent this season looking competitive, but have overlooked key concerns that could make a difference. Sometimes, they show playoff potential, while at other times, the same weak spots keep appearing.
With injuries piling up and the roster stretched thin at key positions, this offseason presents an opportunity for Ryan Poles and Ben Johnson to finally address the areas that have been holding Chicago back.
1. Add a Real Edge Rusher to Support Montez Sweat
Chicago Bears, Montez Sweat
Montez Sweat will lead the way for the Chicago Bears’ defense in 2024.
Joe Tryon-Shoyinka was a brilliant deadline addition after Dayo Odeyingbo went to IR, but he didn’t solve the long-term problem. The Bears still lack an actual threat opposite Montez Sweat, and it shows in how often the pass rush disappears late in games. SI and PFF both noted the Bears’ push for defensive help, and the reality is simple: elite edge rushers rarely hit the market, which is why the DJ Moore trade noise never added up. If Chicago wants its defense to stop burning out, it needs a reliable, every-down rusher who actually forces offenses to adjust.
2. Stabilise the Cornerback Room With a Dependable Starter
Chicago Bears, Jaylon Johnson
Jan 30, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; NFC defensive back Jaylon Johnson of the Chicago Bears (1) during the Satisfying Catch event at the Pro Bowl Skills Challenge at Nicholson Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The cornerback group has been a revolving door all year. Jaylon Johnson hit IR in September, Kyler Gordon followed in October, and the depth behind them has been in constant motion with signings, releases, and practice-squad cycling. Chicago’s near-deal for Alontae Taylor highlights the staff’s concern about the current state of the secondary. They backed off due to the price, but the need remains apparent. InsiderIan Rapport shed light on the situation: “In fact, on this matter: “In fact,sources say that the Bears were deep in talks for Taylor before the deal ended up falling through.”
With so many DB injuries this season and Nashon Wright struggling, the Bears need a steady, healthy starter who fits Dennis Allen’s scheme and gives the secondary some stability.
3. Add One More Wide Receiver to Support DJ Moore and Luther Burden III
Nov 3, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) talks with wide receiver DJ Moore (2) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Nov 3, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) talks with wide receiver DJ Moore (2) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Despite all the outside speculation, nothing the Bears did at the deadline suggests they’re moving on from DJ Moore. The real issue is depth. Moore’s targets have dipped. Burden is still growing into his role, and the offense needs another reliable option who can win consistently. Ben Johnson’s system works best with three functional receivers, the way Detroit took off once it paired Amon-Ra St. Brown with an actual vertical threat. Chicago needs that same balance if it wants Caleb Williams and this offense to function at full strength.
Suppose the Bears can land a legitimate pass rusher, a stabilizing corner, and a dependable third receiver. In that case, the 2026 roster starts to look far more complete and finally capable of keeping pace with the top of the NFC North.