Bears Insights: The Dennis Allen Mentality

Life as a Chicago Bears fan is resisting the ever-present urge to utter the phrase "The Bears are back."

Honestly, though, it's alarming how back the Chicago Bears might be.

Following the sensational hiring of offensive mastermind Ben Johnson, the Bears added former New Orleans Saints Head Coach Dennis Allen to their staff to serve as defensive coordinator.

While Allen has had little success as an NFL head coach, he is a prolific defensive play-caller and will be able to raise the floor for the Chicago Bears' defense. Allen spent 15 seasons (split into two stints) with the New Orleans Saints, including serving as the defensive coordinator from 2016 to 2021 and head coach until 2024.

From 2018 to 2021 specifically, the Saints had an elite defense, ranking inside the top five in most major statistical defensive categories year after year.

But what is the Dennis Allen mentality? What is his vision for the Chicago Bears defense?

"We're going to play a tough, physical brand of football—the brand of football that you come to expect from the Chicago Bears," said Allen in an introductory press conference on Thursday.

Last season, Chicago had one of the statistically worst defenses in the NFL. The Bears were far from the "Monsters of the Midway" that we have "come to expect." Let's hope Allen can fix that.

Allen specifically highlighted Kyler Gordan as a player he was excited about on the defense.

"Kyler Gordon is an outstanding nickel player," said Allen. "I have a vision for how we can utilize him."

Gordon had a solid 2024 season, ranked as PFF's 20th cornerback, and is due for a contract extension this offseason. Under Dennis Allen, expect Gordon to have a full-on breakout season in 2025. Gordon will be a free agent following the 2025 season if he is not extended by Chicago. 

As to more specific details on the defense, Dennis Allen remained quiet. On blitzes, Allen said, "That all remains to be seen."

The 2025 NFL season starts in roughly 215 days. Until then, it will be difficult to assess the Dennis Allen effect. However, there is reason for excitement and optimism for Chicago.

Bear Down.