Entering 2026, the expectations are high for the Chicago Bears, but some of the narratives around this team are just flat-out annoying to hear.
This was a team that finished 11-6, won the NFC North, and beat the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Wild Card Round. The Bears might have some things to work on, but this roster seems to be built for long-term success.
That's what makes these three narratives being said about the Bears going into the 2026 season very annoying. They have been talked about all offseason, and the truth is that it's going to be better than what is being said, or it won't happen at all.
Bears defense did not improve at all going into 2026
Maybe there is some truth to it, but the evidence is there that things are looking up for the defense.
While Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker were turnover machines, Coby Bryant and rookie Dillon Thieneman give this Bears secondary versatility, speed, and more consistency in pass coverage. Devin Bush is currently a better linebacker than Tremaine Edmunds was, with his ability to stop the run. Austin Booker is progressing, and from what happened at OTAs, it appears he might finally be ready for that breakout season Bears fans have been waiting for.
Of course, there is acknowledgment that this Bears defense is not perfect and could use a piece or two, but after finishing 29th in total defense, allowing 361.8 yards per game in 2025, this defense is poised to play significantly better than last year.
Cole Kmet and D'Andre Swift are going to get traded
There have been an endless number of articles that have tried to convince Bears fans that Kmet and/or Swift will be traded at some point this season. On paper, it seems like a logical idea, as trading either guy would create cap space, allowing the team to hypothetically trade for an elite edge rusher who may or may not play in Las Vegas.
The reality is that Bears general manager Poles usually makes his bold trades in the offseason and not in the regular season. Poles did it once with Chase Claypool, and that was a nightmare decision, so if it doesn't happen before Week 1, everyone will have to accept that Kmet and Swift will be on the roster in 2026.
Read more: D'Andre Swift suddenly finds himself at a Bears crossroads
Caleb Williams is not as good of a quarterback as people say
Why this is even a thing should be baffling to Bears fans. Williams had a great 2025 season, as he nearly threw for over 4,000 yards and led seven comeback and game-winning drives, an NFL record.
This man can literally make all the throws, but because of accuracy concerns and his playing off-schedule at times, some don't even believe in him. It's just a wild concept to Bears fans, as he is one of the best in the NFL and has a chance to be at the top in a year or two.
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