Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) warms up before a game against the Minnesota Vikings.

Chicage Bears development emerges after Super Bowl LX

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Feb 10, 2026 10:27 AM ET

Super Bowl 60 has concluded, and the Chicago Bears now set their sights on the 2026 season. Despite a strong 2025 run, the Bears did not reach the big game, which the Seattle Seahawks won over the New England Patriots.

In the 2025 season, the Bears captured the NFC North title with an 11‑6 record. This marked their first division championship since 2018. They also returned to the playoffs for the first time since the 2020 season.

Quarterback Caleb Williams and a balanced roster highlighted Chicago’s season. They showed improved discipline and fewer turnovers, contributing to multiple comeback wins.

Even though Super Bowl 60 belonged to other franchises, its aftermath has helped cast a spotlight on an unexpected story in the NFL. It’s the Chicago Bears’ rise above some big-name teams in ESPN’s early 2026 Power Rankings.

In ESPN’s list outlining how all 32 teams stack up for the next season, the Bears sit at No. 11. The team is ahead of the Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys and just behind the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions.

What stands out most about Chicago’s placement isn’t just the number. It’s the narrative attached to it. ESPN reporter Courtney Cronin sums up the Bears’ offseason in three words: “Quiet‑ish, for once.”

Chicago Bears: Quiet Progress Sets Stage for a Big 2026

“This is one of the quieter offseasons for the Bears in recent history,” wrote Cronin. “Sure, they’ll have to find a new assistant general manager, offensive coordinator and running backs coach, but they don’t have to make franchise-altering moves ahead of next season.”

For a team that has spent years chasing headlines rather than results, that’s a notable shift.

According to Cronin, the Bears have “established a winning culture that they can build off next season.” Head coach Ben Johnson and Williams are expected to lead the way. The power duo gives the organization stability and a foundation it hasn’t had in seasons.

However, she added the team still has work to do in free agency and the draft, especially improving the pass rush.

“There’s work to be done on the roster, notably with the pass rush, in free agency and the draft, but this is setting up to be a drama-free offseason.”

The Bears’ ranking reflects steady progress. ESPN sees a team that is building on what already works instead of starting from scratch. The Bears may not dominate headlines this offseason, but the foundation is in place for something bigger next season.

With smart draft and free-agent moves, Chicago could turn this quiet offseason into a strong 2026 campaign and emerge as a long-term contender.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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