Bears drop their season opener against Minnesota with a spotlight on one-on-one matchups that could swing the game. Greenard’s edge rush sets the tempo for Chicago’s blockers, especially Braxton Jones, whose left tackle spot has been a worry. Minnesota leans into blitz-heavy concepts, testing Jones and the Bears’ protection with stress on short-to-mid throws.

Roschon Johnson’s health and Kyle Monangai’s pass protection will be under the microscope as Chicago tries to slow a disruptive Minnesota defense that thrives on isolated wins. Justin Jefferson is the focal point of Chicago’s plan, while Jaylon Johnson shoulders shadow duties, weather permitting.

Chicago’s Week 1 test vs. Minnesota hinges on four hot-button questions: Ben Johnson’s dual role as head coach and play-caller, Caleb Williams’ ability to meet generational expectations, Braxton Jones’ health at left tackle, and Chicago’s pass rush against J.J. McCarthy and a still-depleted secondary. The answers will shape early fantasy values—Williams’ upside, the protection Williams will need, Jones’ durability, and Sweat’s impact off the edge.

Expect Williams to be under pressure early but to show growth as he processes looks, while Johnson’s use of personnel and game plan will guide the offense’s ceiling. If Chicago can dial up pressure on McCarthy and avoid costly penalties, the Bears’ Week 1 outcome could tilt several fantasy rosters in a favorable direction, with Williams and Sweat as the most consequential pieces.

Braxton Jones won Chicago's starting left tackle job, with Ben Johnson backing the decision as the Bears push for offensive continuity. Jones, coming off injury and competing with Ozzy Trapilo, Kiran Amegadjie and Theo Benedet, stressed steady improvement and more strength as the season unfolds. Johnson cautioned that perfection isn’t every play but noted Jones’s rising trust and execution as reps grow in a new scheme. Chicago opens vs Minnesota with the line under the microscope.

Caleb Williams faces big Week 1 expectations as Chicago opens at home against Minnesota, with a revamped offense around him and a healthier O-line. He must avoid costly sacks and hit on big plays to prove franchise-caliber upside. Braxton Jones’s left-tackle health looms large, affecting Williams’ protection and the ceiling of the attack.

The Bears’ coaching shift and Dennis Allen’s aim to elevate the defense add intrigue, while Ben Johnson’s dual role as play-caller/head coach spices the offensive approach. This opener doubles as a fantasy litmus test for Williams, Jones, and the defensive-thematic elements that could shape the season’s trajectory.

The result will guide early-season fantasy bets and lineup decisions, with Williams’ efficiency, Jones’ availability, and the defense’s ability to force pressure serving as the key drivers of value for Bears assets.