Bears defense sent worrying message before training camp

Chicago’s secondary and linebacker corps lack high depth. Still, the team’s secondary is considered arguably the Bears biggest strength.

The unit is highlighted by cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who is looking to prove he is one of the best defensive backs in the league. In the slot will be Kyler Gordon, who received an extension making him the highest paid player at his position. The biggest question mark remaining is Tyrique Stevenson, who is poised to start opposite Johnson. He has shown flashes in the past, but he must demonstrate consistency to retain his role.

Chicago’s safety situation is straightforward heading into 2025 with Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker set to be the starters. However, both are free agents after the season. Byard is entering his age-32 campaign while Brisker played in just five games in 2024 due to a concussion. Sooner rather than later, the Bears must consider the future of the position.

At linebacker T.J. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds are leading the way. But behind them is a list of unheralded options. Fourth-round rookie Ruben Hyppolite has been impressive. But it’d be quite the vote of confidence for him to have a sizable role out of the gate.

Glass half full 

There is a reason the Bears have once again earned their now infamous "Offseason Champion" moniker. Looking at the defensive side, a pair of defensive additions alongside Allen’s arrival has led to plenty of optimism.

"The list of elite defensive coordinators who are previous head coaches in the NFL is impressive. Vic Fangio, Brian Flores, Jim Schwartz and Steve Spagnuolo are routinely putting out great defenses after struggling as HCs,” Ballentine wrote. “The Bears’ best-case scenario is that Dennis Allen immediately adds himself to that list.

If Allen can get new addition Dayo Odeyingbo and Montez Sweat to break out while Grady Jarrett and rookie Shemar Turner help improve the run defense, then the Bears can go from a middle-of-the-pack unit to top 10,” Ballentine concluded.

The Bears signed Grady Jarrett and Dayo Odeyingbo to a pair of deals worth nearly $100 million. Odeyingbo will line up opposite Montez Sweat, the unquestioned leader on Chicago’s defensive line. Between them will be Jarrett and Gervon Dexter, who is coming off of a breakout five-sack campaign.

Add in a returning Andrew Billings and second-round pick Shemar Turner and things look much stronger across the Bears defensive line. Playing in the NFC North, they know they need to bring constant pressure to the backfield.

But it’s one thing to be impressive on paper and another to register results. Come Week 1, Allen and company will be looking to prove the Bears defense is legit.