One major concern that could derail the Chicago Bears season

Every NFL team has high aspirations coming into the new season.

Whether it is competing for a Super Bowl, making the playoffs, or developing young talent, there’s always a storyline.

For Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears, the expectations will be high as Week 1 looms. After an incredible run to end the 2025 campaign, fans and the organization expect another playoff push.

However, one of many concerns has emerged for Chicago toward the end of the preseason. The primary issue is the defense.

The lack of health on that side of the ball is a major concern to many, including NFL.com writer Jared Dubin. In a recent article, he discussed injury woes in the Bears’ secondary, which could ultimately derail the season if not addressed.

“The Bears were counting on better health and a big free-agent signing to improve their defensive backfield this season. It doesn’t look like they’re getting either. Coby Bryant is out for the foreseeable future. Kyler Gordon is without a timetable to return”

The Coby Bryant situation is unfortunate, and the Kyler Gordon one is puzzling to all. After GM Ryan Poles addressed the media earlier this week, there was certainly some concern in his tone when discussing Gordon. You have to wonder if he’ll suit up at all this season.

Dubin also raised additional health concerns in an already thin secondary. This group can’t afford any more injuries, and the season hasn’t even begun yet.

“Even Jaylon Johnson and Tyrique Stevenson have been banged up recently. It’s going to be a pretty big mess on the back end in Chicago, and that could undermine the defense”

Johnson has reportedly looked great in the last few weeks, but Stevenson has a lot to prove this season. His legacy isn’t one many Chicago Bears fans would want to talk about. He’ll need to step up even more now if Gordon misses more time than expected.

Will the Chicago Bears make a trade for elite defensive player?

If the Bears offense can score at the same pace they did last year, Poles should consider going after an elite defender.

Last season, QB Caleb Williams led this Chicago offense to 25.9 points per game, good enough for 9th in the NFL in scoring. Even with key departures and a potentially shaky running attack, Williams should have no issue putting up points again. There are enough weapons offensively, health permitting.

If the Bears do decide to go after a defender, it likely won’t be a corner or safety.

The defensive line is still by far the biggest hole, with emphasis on attacking the QB.

Plenty of names and rumors have surfaced about potential pickups in that department, but nothing has gained traction. It’s too early in the young season, but don’t put it past Poles to make a splash.

More: Chicago Bears likely to miss out on star pass rusher, per reports

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Source: https://www.chicitysports.com/chicago-bears-derail-season-nfl/