What Bears need to fix, build upon amid bye week

The Chicago Bears hit their bye week with a familiar feeling: a mix of frustration over inconsistency and optimism about the flashes of progress that hint at better days ahead. With quarterback Caleb Williams adjusting to a new scheme and the team continuing to sort through growing pains on both sides of the ball, the bye week offers an opportunity to take stock of where things stand ... and where the team needs to go next.

Chicago Bears' weaknesses to address

1. Protecting the quarterback
One of the most pressing issues so far has been the offensive line’s inability to give Williams enough time to consistently operate. The unit has struggled with both pass protection and penalties, often putting the rookie in long down-and-distance situations. If Chicago wants Williams to develop confidence and rhythm, stabilizing the protection up front must be a top priority coming out of the bye.

2. Run defense woes
While the secondary has held its own, the Bears’ run defense has been far too leaky, entering Week 5 last in the NFL at 164.5 yards surrendered per game. Opponents are finding consistent success on the ground, extending drives and wearing down Chicago’s front seven. This not only puts extra pressure on the defense but also shortens the opportunities for Williams and the offense. Shoring up gap discipline and tackling fundamentals will be critical in the weeks ahead.

3. Finishing drives
Too often, promising possessions have fizzled out into field goals or punts instead of touchdowns. Whether it’s red-zone inefficiency or turnovers at costly times, the Bears haven’t capitalized on enough scoring chances. The bye week is a chance to refine play designs near the goal line and give Williams more high-percentage options to turn drives into points.

Chicago Bears' strengths to build on

1. Caleb Williams’ playmaking ability
Despite the mistakes that come with any young quarterback, Williams has shown why he was selected first overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. His arm talent, creativity when plays break down and ability to extend drives with his legs are all clear strengths. The Bears would be wise to lean further into what he does best with play-action, moving pockets and quick-decision throws that play to his instincts.

2. Upgraded weapons in the passing game
For the first time in years, Chicago’s receiving corps looks like it can stack up with the rest of the league. Veteran wide receiver DJ Moore remains a steadying presence, tight end Cole Kmet has the potential for reliable production in the middle of the field and young receiver Rome Odunze has already flashed big-play potential. This group gives Williams a strong foundation, and the bye week offers a chance to refine chemistry and scheme matchups.

3. Defensive playmakers in the secondary
The Bears may struggle against the run, but their secondary has proven capable of generating turnovers and shutting down passing lanes. Injured cornerback Jaylon Johnson could return at some point in the second half of the season, which would provide a big boost, and safety Kevin Byard III has emerged as a presence, picking off three passes in his last two games. If the front seven can provide more consistency, the back end of the defense could be a difference-maker in close games.

Looking ahead for Chicago Bears

The Bears will enter the post-bye part of the season with as many questions as answers, but the path forward is clear: Protect Williams, tighten up the run defense and finish drives. At the same time, they have a budding franchise quarterback, upgraded playmakers and a secondary capable of holding its own. The bye week is less about reinventing the team and more about doubling down on its strengths while finally fixing its most glaring flaws.