Chicago Bears Eliminated from Playoff Contention

With Giants' backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor starting, Bears fans knew their chances were slim, but New York didn't go down without a fight. The Rams-Giants game came down to the last play when New York set up for a 54-yard field goal to pull off the upset. However, Giants kicker Mason Crosby missed wide left.

What the Bears Have to Look Forward to

The Bears hold a 7-9 record entering Week 18 against the Green Bay Packers. Chicago's recent stretch of improved play is a step in the right direction, but it's still short of fans' expectations. The franchise has only seen two playoff appearances since 2011.

To Keep or Fire Matt Eberflus

For weeks, fans have been debating whether the Bears should move on from head coach Matt Eberflus and quarterback Justin Fields. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport recently reported the Bears are expected to retain Eberflus for the 2024 season.

Eberflus previously seemed to be on the hot seat due to mismanaging three games in which the Bears experienced fourth-quarter collapses. Victories in those contests would have made the Bears a 10-win team.

Is Justin Fields QB1 Moving Forward?

In the case of Justin Fields, his performance against the Falcons had the Soldier Field crowd chanting "We want Fields" on New Year's Eve. He made multiple plays with his arm and his legs that had everyone in awe.

But Fields returning isn't a guarantee as the Bears have officially obtained the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The pick initially belonged to the Carolina Panthers before the Bears acquired it in the DJ Moore trade. Lightning rarely strikes twice, so the Bears may elect to go with top quarterback prospect Caleb Williams, whom many regard as a potential generational talent.