Five Bears Players That Need to Breakout

Every new season brings with it a fresh wave of excitement, expectations, and plenty of questions. For the Chicago Bears, this year feels like another pivotal one as the team looks to continue building around its young talent. Before diving into my top five players I expect to shine, I want to give a couple of obvious honorable mentions.

Honorable Mentions

Caleb Williams – The number one overall pick enters his second year with all eyes on him. What I want to see is his ability to speed up his reads, trust his anticipation, and deliver the ball without hesitation. If he can show growth in reading defenses and getting the ball out quickly, the Bears’ offense could take a huge step forward.

Montez Sweat – Chicago’s defensive line leader is coming into the season healthy after battling some nagging injuries last year. With a full offseason under his belt, I expect Sweat to command attention from opposing lines, freeing up other defenders to make plays. A dominant year from him could elevate the entire unit.

1. Austin Booker (EDGE)

Austin Booker is the player I’m most excited about this season. Last year, he recorded:

• 21 total tackles (13 solo)

• 1.5 sacks

• 4 QB hits

• 3 tackles for loss

The biggest concern with Booker out of college was his size. From what we’ve seen in the preseason, he’s clearly put in the work. Through the first two preseason games, he’s totaled:

• 8 tackles (6 solo)

• 4 sacks

• 4 tackles for loss

That kind of production is hard to ignore. If Booker continues this trajectory, he could be the breakout star on the Bears’ defense this year.

2. Luther Burden III (WR)

The Bears may have gotten the steal of the draft in the second round with Luther Burden III. The rookie wideout has already flashed his potential, showcasing:

• Great size and physicality

• Elusiveness and speed in the open field

• Strong blocking ability to set up the run

Through two preseason games, Burden has recorded 5 receptions for 78 yards. He looks poised to become an important complementary weapon in this receiving corps, and his versatility could give defenses fits.

3. Braxton Jones (LT)

The offensive line has been a question mark for Chicago for years, but Braxton Jones has shown he can be part of the solution. Slotted in at left tackle, Jones is tasked with protecting Caleb Williams’ blindside – arguably the most important job on the offense.

Last year, Jones showed flashes of being a strong run blocker and held his own in pass protection. The key for him this season will be staying healthy and finding consistency. If he steps up, it could solidify the line and unlock the Bears’ offensive potential.

4. Jaquan Brisker (S)

When Jaquan Brisker is on the field, the Bears’ defense feels different. He’s a hard-hitting, instinctive safety who thrives in run support and is capable in coverage. Last season, Brisker dealt with a serious concussion that kept him out for most of the year, and his absence was noticeable.

This season, a healthy Brisker could give the secondary the edge it needs. His leadership and physicality make him one of the most important pieces on this defense.

5. Tyrique Stevenson (CB)

Tyrique Stevenson is a player with a lot to prove this season. Everyone remembers the Commanders game – and what came after – but I love the swagger he brings to the field. The challenge now is backing that up with consistent coverage and smart play.

Playing opposite Jaylon Johnson means Stevenson will often match up with opponents’ second-best receivers. If he can step up and hold his own, it will give Chicago one of the stronger cornerback duos in the NFC.

Final Thoughts

The Bears have a mix of proven talent and emerging stars who could make this a special season. If these five players live up to expectations – alongside the continued growth of Caleb Williams and the impact of Montez Sweat – the Bears might just surprise people this year.