The Chicago Bears have officially launched the next chapter of their offseason program with Organized Team Activities (OTAs) now taking place at Halas Hall. First-year head coach Ben Johnson is already making an impactful presence on the practice field, setting the tone for what fans can expect in the upcoming season.
The Bears kicked things off with their first voluntary OTA on May 20, marking the beginning of seven total practice sessions that will include both veterans and rookies. These practices will run in two blocks until the following month with a rookies-only session set for June 9-11. The team plans to cap off this segment with a veteran minicamp from June 3-5, before they break for the summer and ramp up for training camp later in July.
As OTAs commence, let’s dive into a projected 53-man roster for the Bears, which gives us insight into potential standout players and key positional battles.
Quarterback (3)
At quarterback, Caleb Williams is solidified as the starting signal-caller as he dives into his first full offseason. The Bears have also made a noteworthy shake-up behind him, bringing in veteran Case Keenum. He’ll not only challenge Tyson Bagent for the backup role but also serve as a mentor for Williams, an invaluable experience for a young quarterback navigating his early career.
Running Back (4)
The Bears addressed their running back corps, starting with D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson, alongside rookie Kyle Monangai, who made his way onto the roster after being selected in the seventh round from Rutgers. While Swift and Johnson are expected to share the majority of the carries, Monangai is set to compete for a role that pushes Ian Wheeler off the roster. Travis Homer continues to be a key contributor on special teams.
Wide Receiver (6)
A dynamic duo forms at wide receiver with DJ Moore and Rome Odunze, both looking to build crucial chemistry with Williams this offseason. The addition of rookie Luther Burden III, taken at the surprising position of 39th overall, means he will likely see ample targets throughout the season, whether lining up inside, outside, or even taking handoffs. Behind these key options, Olamide Zaccheaus, Devin Duvernay, and Tyler Scott round out the depth chart.
Tight End (3)
Under Johnson’s offensive scheme, the tight end position is pivotal. Cole Kmet, along with first-round selection Colston Loveland, creates a formidable 1-2 punch, giving Williams numerous passing options. Adding Durham Smythe, who has a connection with Johnson from their time in Miami, provides an additional layer as a reliable blocker.
Offensive Line (10)
The offensive line saw a complete makeover this offseason with the acquisitions of guards Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson, and free agent Drew Dalman. This overhaul aims to create a solid foundation for Williams’ growth, while left tackle remains a point of competition among Braxton Jones, Kiran Amegadjie, and second-round pick Ozzy Trapilo.
Edge Rusher (4)
Montez Sweat will be leading the charge in a position group that needs to enhance its pass-rush capabilities. The addition of Dayo Odeyingbo via free agency holds promise, while Austin Booker aims to build on a rookie campaign that showed flashes of potential. The coaching staff might look to utilize some of their interior defenders, like Gervon Dexter and rookie Shemar Turner, in edge-rushing roles on specific plays.
Defensive Tackle (5)
The Bears’ defensive line welcomes star Grady Jarrett, who can be a game-changer as an interior pass rusher. He joins a group that includes Gervon Dexter, Andrew Billings, and rookie Shemar Turner, all looking to make an impact. Stability will be key after last season’s struggles in that area, particularly following Billings’ season-ending injury. Zacch Pickens currently holds a roster spot over Chris Williams, but this is a position to watch as training camp approaches.
Linebacker (5)
In the linebacker corps, T.J. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds remain the anchors, navigating a relatively unchanged landscape. With Jack Sanborn leaving the fold, the Bears will look to Ruben Hyppolite II, their fourth-round pick, to carve out a role alongside Noah Sewell and special teams standout Amen Ogbongbemiga.
Cornerback (6)
Cornerback stands out as arguably one of the stronger units on the roster. Jaylon Johnson, fresh off his second Pro Bowl nod, leads the charge, backed by Kyler Gordon, who recently secured a contract extension. Tyrique Stevenson has a lot on the line following a challenging sophomore season but will have stiff competition from draft pick Zah Frazier and Terell Smith.
Safety (4)
The safety tandem of Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker is poised to make waves, with both entering pivotal years on their contracts. Byard was a standout performer last season while Brisker looks to bounce back after suffering a concussion that hampered his previous campaign. Jonathan Owens and Elijah Hicks are also entrenched as crucial depth pieces and special teams contributors.
Specialists
The Bears have retained their starting special teams unit, featuring kicker Cairo Santos, punter Tory Taylor, and long snapper Scott Daly, who stepped up admirably following Patrick Scales’ absence due to back surgery last season. Daly’s strong performance has earned him a one-year extension, solidifying his spot on the roster moving forward.
As the Bears navigate their offseason practices, there’s a palpable sense of optimism about the direction of the franchise under Johnson’s leadership. With a mix of fresh talent and seasoned players, the upcoming season holds plenty of promise for the Windy City.
