The Chicago Bears Hard Knocks Hopes Got A Notable Update

Hard Knocks is a series that has been around for two decades. The NFL and HBO have enjoyed a fruitful partnership over that time. However, the league is finding it more and more difficult to find teams willing to participate. It is hard enough to prepare for a long regular season without distractions. The last thing players need is cameras and microphones shoved in their faces during training camp and the preseason. Yet that hasn't stopped many fans from hoping the Chicago Bears get their turn on the popular program.

Despite numerous opportunities, the franchise has managed to avoid it for a long time. With the abundance of intriguing storylines this off-season, many had hoped it was the perfect time for the NFL to pounce. However, that doesn't seem like it's going to happen. Mike Florio of NBC Sports stated that the Bears, along with two other teams, have made it clear they have no wish to participate. While the league can force them if necessary, it's clear they'd rather find a team more open to the idea.

"Per multiple sources, the NFL has expanded its search for preseason Hard Knocks teams beyond the four that, by league rule, technically could be forced to do it — the Jets, Bears, Saints, and Commanders. The first three have made clear that they have no interest in doing it. The Commanders, we’re told, would do it if selected.

But the Commanders also are under consideration for the in-season version of the show. As it relates to Washington’s candidacy for either show, a source with knowledge of the situation tells PFT that the preference is to wait until the sale from Daniel Snyder to Josh Harris has been officially finalized."

The Chicago Bears prefer to keep a low profile.

That is easy to understand. Keeping focus during a long summer of tough practices is difficult. Putting your personal life in front of millions of people can be unnerving. Imagine being a young player trying to earn a roster spot only to fail and having it broadcast to the masses. That is no fun. These guys have enough to deal with. The Bears are coming off a 3-14 season. All of their energy is focused on winning more games in 2023. Nobody wants to sacrifice some of that to placate a television show.

It sounds like the NFL is hoping to get another team involved. There are rumors they've approached the Detroit Lions about doing it for a second straight year. Given how well it went last season, one can understand why. Washington seems like their fallback option if nothing materializes. The Chicago Bears won't complain either way. Their primary goal is to get through July and August with as few injuries and drama as possible.