As training camp approaches, I want to break down each Chicago Bears position group and share my confidence level for each one. I’ll be using a 1-to-10 scale — with 1 being the lowest confidence and 10 being extremely confident. Shoutout to my friend and fellow Bears writer Jacob Infante for inspiring this exercise.
Quarterback: 5
This might raise some eyebrows, and that’s understandable. Some are higher on Caleb Williams going into Year 2, but I’m taking a wait and see approach. I believe Ben Johnson will make a big difference, but until I see it, I’m staying in the middle. I’ll reassess after a few weeks of camp.
Running Back: 6
I’m higher on D’Andre Swift than most. I think he’ll be a major weapon in Ben Johnson’s offense. That said, the depth behind him — Roschon Johnson, Travis Homer, and rookie Kyle Monangai — doesn’t inspire a ton of confidence. That keeps this group at a 6.
Wide Receiver: 9
This room is loaded. I expect them to be a problem for opposing defenses right away. Caleb Williams is spoiled with this group.
Tight End: 7
Cole Kmet is good — but can he be great? That remains to be seen. Ben Johnson should elevate his game. Rookie Colston Loveland has a ton of potential, but tight ends typically take time to develop, so we might only get glimpses this year.
Offensive Tackle: 7
Darnell Wright looks like a long-term stud. Braxton Jones still has something to prove, but I think he’ll be solid. Ozzy Trapilo is the wild card here — his development could swing this unit up or down.
Interior Offensive Line: 9
Joe Thuney. Drew Dalman. Jonah Jackson. What a transformation. Bears fans should love what the team did here this offseason. If this group stays healthy, they’ll be a major asset for Williams.
Edge Rusher: 3
Montez Sweat is solid, but I do wonder if he’s slightly overrated. More importantly, the depth behind him isn’t reassuring. This group feels like a major question mark heading into camp. Hope I’m wrong.
Defensive Tackle: 8
I’m very high on this unit. Gradey Jarrett and Andrew Billings will be a fun combo to watch. I think this group will exceed expectations.
Linebacker: 7
Tremaine Edmunds is due for a bounce back season. T.J. Edwards is one of the more underrated players on the roster. Losing Jack Sanborn will be felt at times, but I’m intrigued by rookie Ruben Hyppolite II.
Cornerback: 9
Injuries are a concern, but talent wise this group is outstanding. Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon are a strong duo, and I expect Tyrique Stevenson to bounce back after a rocky year. He has the tools to be a difference-maker.
Safety: 6
Jaquan Brisker’s health is a concern. But if he stays on the field, his pairing with Kevin Byard could be one of the better tandems in the league. That “if” is what keeps this from being higher.
Special Teams: 7
I like this group. Cairo Santos doesn’t have a huge leg, but he’s consistent — something not easily replaced (just ask anyone who remembers life after Robbie Gould). Tory Taylor should be even better in Year 2. Let’s just hope he’s not punting seven times in a half.
Bonus: Coaching — X-Factor
This could be the biggest variable in the Bears success. I believe Ben Johnson and his staff will elevate nearly every player on the roster. If they deliver, everything else falls into place.
