Although the Chicago Bears' defense may not be the best statistical unit in the NFL, it has made numerous plays that have helped the team to a 6-3 start to the season.
Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen spoke about his defense and how it has performed so far. While acknowledging that it hasn't all been rainbows and butterflies, Allen made sure to add in a little something for the NFL to remember the rest of the NFL season.
“We’re a growing defense. I don’t think we really have even scratched the surface of what I think we can do.”
“We’re a growing defense. I don’t think we really have even scratched the surface of what I think we can do.”
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) November 13, 2025
Dennis Allen on the Bears defense evolving since Week 1. pic.twitter.com/T51wUCsUYD
This Bears defense can only get better as the season rolls into the second half of the year
Again, the statistics are unlikely to stand out for the Bears' defense. This unit ranks 27th in total defense (375.7 yards per game), 26th in pass defense (240.3 yards per game), 25th in rush defense (135.3 yards per game), and 28th in points allowed per game (27.4).
The one stat that distinguished this defensive unit from the rest of the NFL is the turnovers, which have resulted in 20 turnovers being created. This has led the Bears to lead the NFL in turnover differential with +14.
Part of the reason for the struggles is that this defense has dealt with multiple injuries on all three levels of the defense. Jaylon Johnson, Kyler Gordon, Terell Smith, Dayo Odeyingbo, and T.J. Edwards are all either on IR or have missed multiple games with injuries.
Despite all those injuries, the team has found ways to win games thanks to the playmakers they have on their defense. Kevin Byard III and Tremaine Edmunds are tied for the NFL lead in interceptions, with each having four. Montez Sweat has been on a tear lately, recording 4.5 sacks and a forced fumble in his last four games.
Read more: Bears' second Week 11 injury report has fans drawing up nightmares with defense
Yes, things aren't perfect on defense, and every Bears fan would agree with that assessment, but they are making the plays needed to win games. Once they do get healthier and load up for the final two months, this defense is going to be scary late in the season.