Chicago Bears HC sends urgent playoff warning to team

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated Dec 10, 2025 2:51 PM ET

The Chicago Bears entered Week 14 with the NFC’s best record.

Following a 28-21 loss to the Green Bay Packers, the Bears are the No. 7 team in the conference with a 9-5 record.

With an ultra-competitive NFC, there isn’t much margin for error during the next four games for Chicago. Sunday’s game against the 3-10 Cleveland Browns feels like a must-win game, because the Bears will finish the regular season against the Packers, 49ers, Lions–three playoff contenders.

During his news conference on Wednesday, Bears head coach Ben Johnson argued that the team sees the upcoming matchup against the Browns as “equally important” to the Packers game because of the tight NFC playoff race.

“We have goals, and we know what’s what’s out in front of us,” Johnson said. “And so it’s just that awareness that every game matters, every game matters. And that’s where this week, you know, you go from an emotional rivalry game like we like we just played, this week is equally important.”

A trap game for the Chicago Bears?

Green Bay Packers defensive end Micah Parsons (1) pressures Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers defeated the Bears 28-21.Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin

The Browns feel like a trap game.

Cleveland’s offense feels like a wild card. Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders looked impressive against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, but the Bears defense will be the fifth-round pick’s toughest test yet.

The Browns defense will give a struggling Bears passing attack game a challenge. Star defensive end Myles Garrett has been incredible this season despite playing a team with a losing record. He’s recorded 20 sacks in his first 13 games.

Sunday’s game is one the Bears cannot afford to lose, and it’s one second-year quarterback Caleb Williams needs to find a way to show strides in before playing in three high-stakes games to finish the regular season.

Nov 23, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) drops back to pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

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

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