The Sun-Times’ experts predict the Bears’ 2024 record:
Rick Morrissey: 9-8
The Bears play in one of the toughest divisions in the NFL, and they’re going to have their hands full with the Lions, the Packers and, yes, even the Vikings. It’s asking a whole lot — maybe too much — of rookie QB Caleb Williams to stare down all those opponents.
Rick Telander: 9-8
Just when you think the Bears are ready to explode with new offensive talent, you realize other teams got better too. Don’t forget Jordan Love in Green Bay, Jared Goff in Detroit. Going undefeated in preseason means nothing. Worries.
Scoop Jackson: 10-7
On paper they should actually be 11-6 when the season ends. But paper is for suckas and NFL games are decided on grass and turf. So 10-7 is what the 100 yards x 17 games is telling me. The white lines don’t lie.
Patrick Finley: 9-8
Finishing with a winning record — and perhaps a playoff berth — with an ascending rookie quarterback and a roster that’s mostly under contract for 2025 would constitute long-awaited progress. This season will be more of a springboard than an end point.
Jason Lieser: 11-6
Three years into the rebuild, the Bears have a playoff-caliber roster. It’s time to hold them to real standards: Beat up the bad teams, hold your own in the NFC North and be a threat in the postseason.
Mark Potash: 10-7
With Williams’ potential to be a multiplier and a defense with playmakers on all three levels, the Bears have a high floor and a much higher ceiling. But they have to stay healthy.