The Chicago Bears' defense has been inconsistent at best, but for their Week 3 Monday Night Football showdown against the Philadelphia Eagles, they can do some damage.
Chicago played much better defensively in their 9-3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2, but the rain played a role. Their first test came in Week 1 against the Carolina Panthers, when they surrendered 37 points and allowed over 400 yards.
Week 3 will give everyone the final verdict on whether they should buy into what the Bears are sharing on defense. With the Eagles' recent offensive issues, the Chicago defensive line has an opening to build momentum.
Bears' defensive line could be in for a big day against Eagles in Week 3
Philly's biggest problem right now is its offensive line. Their starting left guard, Landon Dickerson, is on IR with a knee injury, forcing some big changes to the lineup.
Eagles center Cam Jurgens moved to left guard and Drew Kendall started at center in their Week 2 win over the Tennessee Titans. That move proved to be a bit of a struggle for both guys.
Jugens was beaten six times in 43 pass-blocking snaps, and Kendall allowed two pressures. Philly's rushing attack stalled, managing 32 attempts for 89 yards and averaging 2.8 yards per carry in the win over Tennessee.
This opens the door for the Bears' defensive line to have a big day. They have taken some criticism for their performance over the last few years, but might get the boost they need.
Grady Jarrett is playing better at defensive tackle than he did last year, with four pressures, three hurries, and three stops this year. He is helping with the pass rush while stopping the running game.
Dayo Odeyingbo has been a pleasant surprise and is making plays he didn't make in 2025. Odeyingbo has eight pressures, five hurries, two quarterback hits, and one sack in two games. His transition to defensive tackle, along with playing off the edge, has given him a new lease on his NFL career.
Chicago has other interior defensive linemen worth watching. James Lynch has emerged as a solid rotational guy after his seven tackles as a starter in Week 2.
The focus on defensive tackle is so important in this game because Jurgens and Kendall struggled throughout Week 2 to gel. It actually led to their usually reliable left tackle Jordan Mailata, allowing,even three pressures himself.
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If the Bears don't attack the Eagles' interior offensive line with more stunts at defensive tackle or blitz right up the middle, defensive coordinator Dennis Allen will miss a golden opportunity to win those battles. Chicago has to make life miserable for Jurgens and Kendall if they want to win this game.
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