Expectations for the Chicago Bears are high, but some believe disappointment could be a part of the 2026 season.
Part of the reason for the pessimistic view of the Bears is that they have the toughest schedule in the NFL. Many believe the Detroit Lions will win the division because their schedule is so easy, and it could be the key to the Bears missing the playoffs.
That has started a debate on how the Bears will finish the 2026 season. While there are Bears fans who believe this could be the year they finish with the Lombardi Trophy, expectations might have to be tamed a bit, but winning games is on the table.
Bears win projection should give fans 'moderate' confidence in 2026
Bleacher Report writer Brad Gagnon predicted the over-under win projections for each NFL teams. The Bears getting over 9.5 wins gives Gagnon enough confidence to think it is possible.
"Let me get this straight: The Bears go 11-6 in Ben Johnson's first season with Caleb Williams, ranking in the top 10 in football with 25.9 points per game and winning the tough NFC North despite the defense being smashed by injuries...and they're only projected to win nine or 10 games in 2026?
I fully expect Williams to continue to improve in his third season after he put up 27 touchdown passes to just seven interceptions as a sophomore under Johnson, and Dennis Allen should get more out of the defense if the law of averages helps out with the health of a high-impact unit.
The competition in that division is reason for some caution, but this team is on an upward trajectory and should be a safe bet for double-digit victories again in 2026."
Last season's 11 wins should be evidence enough that the Bears can at least get a winning record in 2026. This roster is better than last year's because the team is one season into the system and younger talent got added on defense.
They might have a tough time at points of the season since they are playing in the toughest division in the NFL. The NFC North is filled with four teams that can easily be argued to make the postseason.
A couple of things will determine whether this Bears team makes the playoffs and makes a run at the Super Bowl. One, can Caleb Williams make major strides to become an elite quarterback? Second, can the defense improve after finishing 29th in yards allowed?
Read more: One Ryan Poles offseason decision could send Bears' season spiraling
The Bears can't afford to take a step back with all the momentum they have from last year. This roster is ready to leap into the NFL's elite.
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