While the 2025 NFL season was magical for the Chicago Bears, it was not exactly pixie dust for the defense. Sure, they had the most takeaways in the league (33), but there were so many sacrifices that the Bears had to make. But there are signs that the Bears’ defense will be better in 2026.
The Chicago Bears allowed 361.8 yards per game, which ranked 29th in the NFL in 2025. The team also finished 23rd in both points (24.4) and sacks (35) on a per-game basis, relying on secondary players thanks to the numerous injuries. The Bears were often cross-matched and could not generate any pressure. But the 2026 offseason shows promise.
Signs that the Bears’ Defense Will Be Better in 2026
Turning Age into Youth
Expect the number of takeaways to decrease for Chicago. But the Bears are improving on the defensive side of the football, thanks to general manager Ryan Poles, who spent the early offseason trading away aging players for youth and energy. In 2025, age had a mixed impact on the Bears’ roster. While it was able to provide elite and veteran leadership, it was not enough to fend off opposing offenses. The reliance on older, expensive players in key areas, combined with injuries, resulted in bittersweet harmony.
Same Defensive Staff
Despite defensive passing coordinator Al Harris being in many rumors of potentially leaving the Bears, he stayed. He was able to make the secondary one of the most elite in all of football. Chicago has managed to keep the majority of its defensive staff, led by defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. This is a great sign as defenses tend to grow if the same staff stays.
The 2026 NFL Draft for the Chicago Bears
The 2026 NFL draft is huge for the Bears, considering they have the 25th overall pick. It is possible that they will be looking for defensive linemen, which is the ultimate goal. With someone else lining the opposite side of Sweat, the pass rush will be better. The Bears struggled to get to the quarterback, and that allowed offenses to attack their linebackers and secondary.
The Bears have been looking for speed and agility on the defensive line. If they can generate a source of acceleration to get to the quarterback, they can get off the field.
Bryant and Bush Additions
While luck and magic are strong words, the Bears were just that. However, the addition of Pro Bowl safety Coby Bryant will give Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon another weapon in a loaded secondary. Another key addition will be linebacker Devin Bush, who played in all 17 games and set career highs across the board. He was part of a Cleveland Browns defense that was dominant all season long.
The Emergence of Some 2025 Players
While the 2025 NFL season was filled with mixed results for the defense, there were some players who emerged. Pass rusher Gervon Dexter Sr. had a quiet but productive season. In the games he played, he recorded 44 tackles and 6.0 sacks. This was proof that the Bears may have found another defensive piece outside of Montez Sweat, another player who had a year.
Cornerback Kyler Gordon has always been a productive defensive player. But when he missed significant time due to numerous injuries, it was evident that the Bears missed him. In the games he played, Gordon was able to play both the interior and outside efficiently. If he can stay healthy for 2026, the Bears have themselves a dangerous group with Johnson and Bryant.
There are many signs that the Bears’ defense looks better in 2026. If they do, they can become a more balanced team.
