It’s hard to believe we’re just about 1/3 of the way through the 2024 NFL season. Surprising headlines like the 1-4 Cincinnati Bengals, 4-1 Washington Commanders, and MVP frontrunner Sam Darnold of the 5-0 Minnesota Vikings fill NFL fans with rejuvenation. But one of the surprising performances of the season so far is how the new and improved Chicago Bears have come together.
Whether you’re a local or not, the Bears have received a lot of attention due to some of their recent changes in their lineup. After a trade with the Carolina Panthers the previous season, the Bears acquired rookie quarterback sensation Caleb Williams.
Just five games into the season, the Chicago Bears sit at third in the NFC North with a 3-2 record. As for that rookie quarterback, he finally seems to be getting the hang of the professional scene.
Williams boasted his best statline last Sunday against the Panthers, recording a total of 20 completed passes out of 29 attempts for 304 yards and two passing touchdowns. This game marked his second game with 300 or more passing yards, tying the Chicago Bears rookie single-season record in only his fifth NFL start. So far the rookie quarterback has proved that he can hold his own. However, he is not the only star of the show.
Eight picks after the Bears selected Caleb Williams, they used their own ninth overall pick on Rome Odunze. Odunze came in as a record-breaking wide receiver and unanimous All-American selection from the University of Washington. Odunze turned heads in training camp through his route-running and agility, as well as his quickly developed relationship with his new quarterback. Meanwhile, the Bears real No. 1 receiving target has been busy.
Wide Receiver D.J Moore, who was acquired from the Carolina Panthers through the same trade as Caleb Williams, seems to clearly be at the top of his position for Chicago. After signing a four-year, $110 million extension this offseason, he’s proving why he deserves to be the highest paid Chicago Bear ever.
Aiming for revenge, Moore achieved his first 100+ receiving yard game this season, paired with two touchdowns against his former team. With newly signed veteran Keenan Allen being injured for a majority of the year and Rome Odunze starting with a low offensive load, Moore has been able to shine.
Don’t let all of the talk around the Bear’s offense take your eyes off of their star-studded defense. Recording a total of 14 sacks and 6 interceptions through the first five games, the defensive team has been able to hold back opposing offenses.Their incredible work has allowed for the offense to take the field more often. Re-signing their star cornerback Jaylon Johnson to a four-year, $76 million contract proved to be another costly, but very worthwhile free agent signing. With a commanding defense and powerful offense, what’s to come for the Chicago Bears?
The Bears have the highest strength of schedule left, meaning their remaining schedule comes together to be the hardest path to victory of any NFL team. With a full, two-game-each NFC North slate ahead, as well as matchups against the Seahawks, Commanders and 49ers, the Bears need to keep their two-game winning streak in conjunction.
Their next matchup is against the Jacksonville Jaguars as a part of the NFL’s London Series, at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday. Coming off their first win against the Indianapolis Colts, the Jaguars hope to continue their momentum against the Bears.
