The Chicago Bears haven't been world-beaters by any stretch of the imagination this season, nor is it always aesthetically pleasing watching them. However, you can't question their resiliency and will to persevere, as we've seen time and time again.
Week 10 was more of the same for the gritty upstart Bears, who overcame a 10-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the New York Giants. Chicago never wavered despite digging itself into a hole and found a way to prevail and improve to 6-3.
To many on the outside, the Bears are just finding ways to get by. But those inside the locker room understand their nail-biting victories are a product of what first-year head coach Ben Johnson is building. One of Chicago's captains, Kevin Byard III, vocalized this message following the team's 24-20 comeback over the Giants.
Kevin Byard credits Ben Johnson's leadership for cardiac Bears' success
"I think culture is defined when you're facing adversity. We've faced adversity a ton this year, and we've been able to overcome every single time. That just lets you know what type of team we have. The belief is always there. ... This is the 2025 Chicago Bears. It hasn't been pretty at times, but the belief is there."
While Byard didn't explicitly name Chicago's sideline general, the message was clear. Their ability to weather storms and keep stacking wins is a result of the buy-in Johnson has from the players. The latter's preparation, football acumen and energy have instilled confidence in the former and a Bears group that is ahead of schedule.
No deficit feels insurmountable for this Bears squad, regardless of how much time is on the clock or what's happened ahead of their triumphant rallies. Chicago doesn't let go of the rope; they stand up 10 times if you knock them down nine times. That's a testament to their fearless leader, and Byard knows it.
Byard is a two-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro with a decade of NFL experience, so his comments hold more weight than most. The veteran safety understands what it takes to succeed in this league and how difficult it can be to overcome obstacles. It's about who wants it more, not looking good, a mindset Johnson's Bears have ostensibly embraced.