The Chicago Bears will begin training camp in late July 2026 at Halas Hall, with rookies reporting on July 25 and veterans on July 28.
The first public practice is scheduled for July 31.
>>> Giants Claim DT CJ Ravenell Off Waivers, Waive CB Rico Payton
ESPN recently ranked the team's projected starting lineup 17th in the NFL ahead of the upcoming season.
Key X-Factor: Caleb Williams
Head coach Ben Johnson enters his second season after guiding the offense to ninth in points scored last year.
However, ESPN analysts Mike Clay, Aaron Schatz, and Seth Walder identified quarterback Caleb Williams as the team's primary X-factor due to consistency concerns.
"For all his highlights last season, there is still plenty to iron out in Williams' game, with accuracy being the most critical," the analysts said.
"Williams ranked last among QBR-qualifying quarterbacks in off-target rate and completion percentage over expected, per Next Gen Stats.
If he can bring those numbers just to league average, that would result in a big step for him and the offense.
But that's a big 'if.'"
>>> Canada Selects Germany's TKMS to Build New Submarine Fleet
The offense will feature new center Garrett Bradbury following the sudden retirement of Drew Dalman in March.
Kalif Raymond is projected to start at wide receiver alongside Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III.
Raymond praised Johnson's offensive system during an offseason interview with NFL Network.
"He finds what everybody's really, really good at, and he finds a way to allow you to excel at it," Raymond said.
The offensive line remains a projected strength, with Darnell Wright and left tackle Braxton Jones protecting Williams.
Jones will compete to retain his starting position against Jedrick Wills Jr. and Theo Benedet.
Defensively, coordinator Dennis Allen faces a major overhaul after losing safety Kevin Byard III and cornerback Nahshon Wright in free agency.
>>> Katie Couric Diagnosed With Transient Global Amnesia After Medical Episode
New starters include linebacker Devin Bush and rookie safety Dillon Thieneman.
