Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year, we ask questions of the most plugged-in Bears fans and fans across the country.
Be honest: how many of you guys had the Chicago Bears at 7-2 and in first place at the bye?
There’s a long way to go, but at the midpoint of the 2026 season, the Bears look like a legit threat to win the NFC.
I know it’s cliché to say, but the bye is really hitting at an opportune time for the Bears. The running back room should get a boost
with D’Andre Swift able to rest up and Kyle Monangai seemingly ready to return from his toe/thumb injury. Wideout Luther Burden III, who has 49 receptions and 644 receiving yards, exited the win over the Bucs with a concussion, so he needs the break. With how much the offense has dominated the time of possession through the first nine games, the offensive line could use some relaxing time away.
The Bears didn’t add anything else to the defense at the trade deadline, but the huge trade for Jeffery Simmons paid immediate dividends. He’s a force multiplier who makes everyone better.
Rookie Malik Muhammad II, who has been the Bears’ best corner, should be back after the bye. Jaylon Johnson has had a rough start to the season but is coming off his best game. Kyler Gordon and Tyrique Stevenson were both dinged up on Sunday night, so a week away will do them good, and defensive lineman Dayo Odeyingbo should be back from injured reserve soon.
I also think the extra week for Caleb Williams to stew over his four-pick game will lead to an even hungrier player in the second half.
The Bears are in a great place to continue their quest for back-to-back playoff appearances.
