Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson has initiated an open competition for the starting strong-side linebacker (SAM) position as rookie mini-camp kicks off. With veterans TJ Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds secure in their roles, the third spot becomes crucial following Jack Sanborn's departure to the Cowboys. Johnson emphasized the need for a prototype fit and mentioned Noah Sewell as a potential candidate, along with rookie Ruben Hyppolite II, who brings speed but requires development. Veterans Amen Ogbongbemiga and Swayze Bozeman also enter the mix, highlighting the depth of options available to the Bears.

The SAM position is evolving in the modern NFL, where nickel cornerbacks often see more action than traditional linebackers. Last season, Sanborn only played 22% of the defensive snaps, while Kyler Gordon, a key cornerback, was on the field for 77.5%. The competition is set to be intense, with Johnson keen on finding the best fit in this critical defensive role.

The Chicago Bears are positioning themselves as contenders with a strategic offseason under new head coach Ben Johnson. After an active free agency that saw the acquisition of key players like offensive linemen Joe Thuney and Drew Dalman, as well as defensive linemen Grady Jarrett and Dayo Odeyingbo, focus shifts now to the 2025 NFL Draft.

With seven draft picks, including four in the Top 75, the Bears aim to fortify their depth at linebacker behind the starters T.J. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds. Following Jack Sanborn's departure to the Dallas Cowboys, the need for reinforcements is clear. While players like Amen Ogbongbemiga and Noah Sewell have potential, the Bears are likely to target a linebacker through either late free agency or the draft, particularly in the third or fifth rounds.

Chicago Bears new head coach Ben Johnson is setting a high bar for his team as they embark on the offseason program. Emphasizing a winning mentality, Johnson is determined to instill a culture of dominance, as echoed by cornerback Jaylon Johnson and linebacker Tremaine Edmunds. Both players highlighted the importance of hard work and cohesion, essential for establishing a robust identity, particularly on defense. The last winning season for the Bears was in 2018, marking a significant challenge for Johnson as he aims to change the team's trajectory.

Zack Baun emerged as a standout linebacker in 2024, showcasing exceptional tackling skills that translated into impressive PFF grades and significant IDP production. His performance positions him as the top tackler at his position for the season, highlighting his effectiveness on the field.

Conversely, Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards of the Chicago Bears experienced a season of underperformance, struggling to meet expectations. With a new defensive coordinator coming on board, both players are optimistic for a turnaround in 2025, seeking to elevate their contributions to the team.

The 2025 NFL Draft season is upon us, offering fans an opportunity to engage with PFF's advanced Mock Draft Simulator. This tool provides insights into top prospects, allowing teams to strategize and make informed decisions about their future rosters.

In a game that saw the Seattle Seahawks and the Chicago Bears combine for the lowest score of the NFL season, the Seahawks emerged victorious with a narrow 6-3 win at Soldier Field on Thursday night. The match was characterized by a dominant defensive performance by Seattle, which sacked Bears quarterback Caleb Williams seven times, matching their season high. The Bears struggled offensively, managing only 179 total yards, the lowest allowed by the Seahawks since 2018. Chicago's passing game was particularly ineffective, with just 76 yards, while Seattle's defense consistently pressured Williams throughout the game.

Seattle's offensive performance, however, was far from stellar. The Seahawks' scoring was limited to just a pair of field goals, with their only touchdown opportunity thwarted by a dropped interception in the red zone. Quarterback Geno Smith completed 17 of 23 passes for 160 yards but had a lackluster first half, finishing with 97 yards before halftime. The Seahawks relied heavily on their running game, with Zach Charbonnet and Kenny McIntosh combining for 87 yards on 14 carries in the first half. Despite a strong rushing attack, Seattle's offense failed to capitalize on opportunities, leaving the game in the hands of their defense.

The second half continued the trend of defensive dominance, with both teams struggling to move the ball. The Bears finally showed some life late in the game, but a critical interception by Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen sealed their fate, extending Chicago's losing streak to ten games. Seattle's win keeps them in the playoff hunt, as they prepare for a crucial matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 18, where the NFC West title could be on the line. The Seahawks now find themselves needing to secure a victory while hoping for favorable outcomes in other games to clinch a playoff spot.