The Green Bay Packers' rookie minicamp has kicked off, attracting 38 hopefuls competing for roster spots. This group includes players from the 2025 draft class, undrafted free agents, and returning players, all aiming to prove their worth. General Manager Brian Gutekunst emphasizes that every player, regardless of status, must fight for their position, which promises to create an intense competitive atmosphere.

The spotlight is particularly on punter Daniel Whelan, who showed consistency last year, yet faces competition from an unexpected source: Brendan Hall, a 6-foot-9 punter from Montana State. Hall brings unique attributes to the table, including impressive leg strength and past accolades but must refine his technique to secure a place in the NFL.

In a thrilling conclusion to their disappointing season, the Chicago Bears showcased an impressive special teams play, defeating their rivals, the Green Bay Packers, in Week 18. The Bears opened the scoring with a spectacular 94-yard punt return touchdown orchestrated by Josh Blackwell, who took advantage of a well-executed misdirection. As the Packers punter, Daniel Whelan, kicked from the Chicago 44-yard line, the Bears’ punt return team feigned a fair catch, distracting Green Bay's coverage unit.

Blackwell capitalized on the confusion, fielding the punt inside the 10-yard line with no coverage nearby. He sprinted down the left sideline for the touchdown, marking the first of his career. Despite having nothing at stake for themselves due to a 4-12 record, the Bears were motivated by the opportunity to spoil the Packers' playoff hopes, adding an unexpected twist to the rivalry.

In a remarkable display of ingenuity on special teams, the Chicago Bears executed one of the most memorable plays of the NFL season against the Green Bay Packers in Week 18. Despite being out of playoff contention, the Bears opened the scoring with a stunning 94-yard punt return touchdown by Josh Blackwell, who showcased impressive awareness and speed.

DJ Moore's clever feigned fair catch lured the Packers' coverage unit to one side, allowing Blackwell to receive the punt uncovered on the opposite sideline. He sprinted down the left side and completed the play with a jubilant Lambeau Leap, marking a highlight in an otherwise disappointing season for Chicago.

The Chicago Bears delivered a thrilling moment for their fans with a remarkable special teams play against the Green Bay Packers. In a bid to change their recent fortunes, the Bears executed a clever misdirection punt return in the first quarter. DJ Moore was set to receive the punt, but in a surprising twist, he served as a decoy, allowing Josh Blackwell to field the ball instead. The Packers' coverage team was drawn toward Moore, creating an opening for Blackwell.

After fielding the punt from Daniel Whelan, Blackwell sprinted down the field, ultimately scoring a stunning 94-yard touchdown return. This play not only marked the Bears' first punt return touchdown since 2021, but it also stood as the second-longest punt return of the current NFL season, just shy of a 96-yarder by Parker Washington of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Although the Bears' season has been disappointing, this electrifying play against their historical rivals can help them conclude the year on a positive note.

The Chicago Bears showcased a brilliant trick play in their season finale against the Green Bay Packers, executing a fake punt return for a touchdown. This innovative play, reminiscent of strategies from former special teams coordinator Dave Toub, allowed the Bears to take a 7-0 lead early in the first quarter, marking their first lead in any game since November 24.

With a little over six minutes remaining in the opening quarter, Chicago's punter Daniel Whelan sent a well-placed punt towards the sideline. Bears wide receiver DJ Moore cleverly misled the Packers' coverage team, appearing to prepare for a catch within the 5-yard line. Meanwhile, cornerback Josh Blackwell was left free on the opposite side.

Blackwell made an impressive move, snagging the punt over his shoulder before turning and sprinting 94 yards for a touchdown, delighting fans at Lambeau Field. This remarkable return marked the longest punt return for the Bears since 2021 and is a nod to a similar play from 2011 involving Hall of Fame return specialist Devin Hester, who had previously attempted a comparable strategy against the Packers.