The Chicago Bears begin their 2026 training camp on July 15, 2026, with a pivotal quarterback competition between incumbent Justin Fields and rookie first-round pick Caleb Williams. Fields, entering his fifth season, has shown flashes but struggled with consistency, completing 61.4% of his passes in 2025 with 18 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Williams, selected first overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, brings a dynamic skill set and high expectations.
Head coach Matt Eberflus has stated that the competition will be open, with both quarterbacks splitting first-team reps early in camp. The Bears' offense, coordinated by Shane Waldron, aims to improve a unit that ranked 22nd in scoring last season. Key additions to the receiving corps, including veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen and rookie Rome Odunze, should aid whichever quarterback wins the job.
Defensively, the Bears return a strong unit led by linebacker Tremaine Edmunds and cornerback Jaylon Johnson. The team's success in 2026 hinges on quarterback play, making this position battle the most critical storyline of training camp. The Bears finished 7-10 in 2025, missing the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year.
