The Chicago Bears enter the 2026 NFL season with genuine momentum and high expectations. After capturing their first NFC North title since 2018 with an 11-6 record in 2025, the franchise looks ready to take the next step under second-year head coach Ben Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams.
The complete Chicago Bears schedule 2026 features a demanding slate packed with prime-time games, holiday matchups, and divisional battles. With the season opener just days away on September 13, fans are locked in on the full slate of 17 regular-season games.
Full Chicago Bears 2026 Regular Season Schedule
Here is the complete schedule with dates, times (Central), and networks based on the official release:
- Week 1: Sunday, Sept. 13 at Carolina Panthers, 12:00 p.m., FOX
- Week 2: Sunday, Sept. 20 vs. Minnesota Vikings, 12:00 p.m., FOX
- Week 3: Monday, Sept. 28 vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 7:15 p.m., ESPN/ABC
- Week 4: Sunday, Oct. 4 vs. New York Jets, 12:00 p.m., FOX
- Week 5: Sunday, Oct. 11 at Green Bay Packers, 3:25 p.m., FOX
- Week 6: Sunday, Oct. 18 at Atlanta Falcons, 12:00 p.m., FOX
- Week 7: Thursday, Oct. 22 vs. New England Patriots, 7:15 p.m., Prime Video
- Week 8: Monday, Nov. 2 at Seattle Seahawks, 7:15 p.m., ESPN
- Week 9: Sunday, Nov. 8 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 7:20 p.m., NBC
- Week 10: Bye
- Week 11: Sunday, Nov. 22 vs. New Orleans Saints, 12:00 p.m., FOX
- Week 12: Thursday, Nov. 26 at Detroit Lions (Thanksgiving), noon, CBS
- Week 13: Sunday, Dec. 6 vs. Jacksonville Jaguars, 12:00 p.m., FOX
- Week 14: Sunday, Dec. 13 at Miami Dolphins, 12:00 p.m.
- Week 15: Saturday, Dec. 19 at Buffalo Bills, 7:20 p.m., CBS
- Week 16: Friday, Dec. 25 vs. Green Bay Packers (Christmas), 12:00 p.m.
- Week 17: Sunday, Jan. 3 vs. Detroit Lions, afternoon window
- Week 18: Sunday, Jan. 10 at Minnesota Vikings, TBD
The Bears will play seven prime-time or standalone games, including Monday Night Football twice, Thursday Night Football, Sunday Night Football, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.
Strength of Schedule Overview
As NFC North champions, Chicago faces a first-place schedule that ranks among the toughest in the league. Opponents posted a collective .550 winning percentage in 2025, placing the Bears near the top of most strength-of-schedule rankings. Eight games come against 2025 playoff teams. Road tests at Lambeau Field, Seattle, Buffalo, and Detroit will be especially demanding.
Latest Player and Team Updates Heading into 2026
Ben Johnson’s second season begins with continuity on offense and targeted upgrades elsewhere. The Bears finished 2025 strong after a worst-to-first turnaround, scoring 441 points and ranking among the league leaders in total yards.
Quarterback Caleb Williams set a franchise record with 3,942 passing yards and threw 27 touchdowns against just seven interceptions. Running back D’Andre Swift rushed for 1,087 yards and recently agreed to a three-year, $33.75 million extension that includes significant guaranteed money.
Wide receiver Rome Odunze is listed as questionable for the season opener with a calf injury but has expressed confidence he will play. The receiving corps also features Luther Burden III, Kalif Raymond, and young tight end Colston Loveland, who led the team in receiving yards in 2025.
On defense, the Bears added linebacker Devin Bush and safety Coby Bryant (currently on injured reserve). Montez Sweat remains a key edge presence after recording 10 sacks last season. Offensive line questions persist with left tackle Braxton Jones expected to start while Ozzy Trapilo recovers from injury.
The preseason ended 2-1, with solid showings against the Browns and Titans after a loss at Cincinnati.
Week 1 Match Preview: Bears at Panthers
The season opens on the road against the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte. This matchup carries extra intrigue because the Bears traded the No. 1 overall pick in 2023 that became Bryce Young. Williams and Young have limited prior history, adding a personal storyline.
Chicago’s offense should dictate the tempo if the offensive line holds up. Look for Swift and the run game to establish early control while Williams targets Odunze and Loveland in the intermediate areas. Defensively, containing Carolina’s ground attack will be critical.
The noon FOX kickoff gives the Bears a chance to set an early tone in what could become a competitive NFC South-style game.
Key Statistics from the 2025 Season
- Record: 11-6, first place NFC North
- Points scored: 441 (9th in NFL)
- Total yards: 6,282
- Caleb Williams: 3,942 passing yards (franchise record), 27 TD, 7 INT, 90.1 rating
- D’Andre Swift: 1,087 rushing yards, 9 rushing TDs
- Colston Loveland: team-high 713 receiving yards
- Defense: 415 points allowed; Montez Sweat led with 10 sacks; Kevin Byard recorded 7 interceptions
These numbers show an explosive offense capable of sustaining drives and a defense that improved enough to win close games.
Players to Watch in 2026
Caleb Williams remains the centerpiece. In his third NFL season and second under Johnson, improved accuracy and decision-making could push him past 4,000 yards.
D’Andre Swift enters with a new contract and fresh motivation. His dual-threat ability fits perfectly in Johnson’s scheme.
Rome Odunze needs a healthy start. A strong Year 3 could cement him as a true No. 1 receiver.
Colston Loveland and Luther Burden III provide mismatch weapons in the middle of the field and on the perimeter.
On defense, Montez Sweat, Devin Bush, and first-round safety Dillon Thieneman will be pivotal if the unit is to take a step forward.
Expert Analysis: Can the Bears Repeat and Go Further?
The 2026 schedule tests every facet of this roster. Early games against the Vikings and Eagles will reveal whether Chicago has closed the gap on the NFC’s elite. The mid-season stretch featuring the Patriots, Seahawks, and Buccaneers looks particularly brutal before the bye.
Johnson’s offensive creativity should keep the attack among the league’s most productive. The question is whether the defense can force enough turnovers and get off the field on third down. Rest advantages throughout the year, including several games with extra preparation time, could help mitigate the tough slate.
Most analysts project the Bears around the 9.5- to 10.5-win range with a realistic shot at another division title and a deeper playoff run. Consistency from Williams and health along the offensive line will decide how far they go.
FAQs About the Chicago Bears 2026 Schedule
1. When does the Chicago Bears 2026 season start?
Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the Carolina Panthers at noon CT on FOX.
2. How many prime-time games do the Bears have in 2026?
Seven, including two Monday Night Football games, Thursday Night Football, Sunday Night Football, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.
3. Who are the Bears’ biggest rivals on the 2026 schedule?
The Green Bay Packers (twice), Detroit Lions (twice, including Thanksgiving), and Minnesota Vikings (twice).
4. Is the Bears’ 2026 schedule considered difficult?
Yes. It ranks among the hardest in the NFL based on 2025 opponent records, with eight games against playoff teams.
5. Where can I watch or stream Bears games in 2026?
Most games air on FOX or CBS locally. Prime-time contests appear on ESPN/ABC, NBC, Prime Video, or Netflix for the Christmas game. Streaming options include official NFL partners and team apps.
Conclusion
The Chicago Bears 2026 schedule offers excitement, challenges, and opportunity in equal measure. With a proven quarterback, a creative head coach, and a core returning from a division championship, Chicago has legitimate Super Bowl aspirations.
