New Rankings Put the Bears’ Defense on the Verge of a Major Leap

Tucked into the No. 13 spot is a familiar name in NFL coaching circles—a name that recently joined Johnson’s staff in Chicago. For a franchise hungry for progress, this kind of validation—even in the offseason—matters.

After two underwhelming stints as an NFL head coach, former Saints coach Dennis Allen returns to what he’s best known for: defense. PFN wrote, ‘After two failed stints as an NFL head coach, Dennis Allen finds himself returning to the defensive coordinator ranks… this feels like an excellent way for him to extend his coaching career.’ For Bears fans, the message is clear: there’s experience on this sideline, and maybe even a bit of redemption in the works.

During his seven seasons as New Orleans’ DC, Allen’s units didn’t just perform—they punched above their weight. The Saints made the playoffs in four of those years, with defenses that were regularly among the league’s toughest in third-down efficiency, red zone control, and overall swagger. 

In his final two seasons, the Saints’ D ranked inside the top 10 in third-down defense and red zone scoring percentage—metrics that translate when the lights are brightest.

The 2024 season in New Orleans didn’t go Allen’s way. Maybe it was the personnel, maybe it was something else—but the scheme never seemed to be the problem. Now, with a deeper roster and a fresh chapter in Chicago, Allen might finally be in the right spot at the right time. 

And there’s already a foundation to build on. The Bears’ defense ranked 13th in total defense last season, allowing 370 yards and 21.8 points per game. Not elite, but certainly not broken. If Allen can sharpen their third-down and red zone consistency, that could be enough to vault Chicago’s defense into the top 10.

If things break right, this could be more than a comeback. It could be the start of something big on the defensive side of the ball in the Windy City.