The Chicago Bears flipped the script in 2025, taking the NFC North crown and knocking off the Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card round-a statement win that carried more weight than just playoff advancement. After years of hearing about how the Packers "owned" them, the Bears took two of three matchups last season and have now won three of the last four head-to-head. The winds have shifted in the NFC North, and for the first time in a long time, it feels like the Bears are in control.
But not everyone’s ready to hand them the throne just yet-including one of their own.
Former Bears offensive lineman Kyle Long, speaking during Super Bowl week on CHGO, had some high praise for the rivalry brewing between Packers head coach Matt LaFleur and Bears head coach Ben Johnson. But it was his take on the division race in 2026 that raised eyebrows in Chicago.
“The Packers, in my opinion, are still the team to beat in the NFC North next year. I know I'm a Bear and I love Caleb (Williams) and Ben Johnson, but we are still the underdogs. I want you to understand that.”
That’s a tough pill for Bears fans to swallow-especially after everything this team accomplished last season.
Let’s not gloss over what Chicago pulled off in 2025. This wasn’t a fluke run.
The Bears led the league with seven comeback wins and game-winning drives, setting an NFL record in the process. That speaks to resilience, poise, and a young quarterback who already looks like he belongs in the big moments.
Caleb Williams didn’t just meet expectations-he thrived under pressure. And with one of the league’s most dynamic rushing attacks and a top-five total offense, the Bears found a rhythm that gave defenses fits. Ben Johnson’s offensive scheme clicked in a big way, and Chicago’s ability to close out tight games showed a maturity beyond their years.
Meanwhile, the Packers-yes, they were banged up-but they also let an 18-point halftime lead slip away in the playoffs against this same Bears team. Injuries are part of the story, but they don’t explain that kind of collapse when the stakes are highest.
So, is Green Bay still the team to beat? That’s up for debate.
But what’s clear is that Chicago has earned its seat at the table-and maybe even the head of it. Kyle Long’s comments might sting for Bears fans, but they also add fuel to the fire.
This team has already shown it can silence the doubters. Doing it again in 2026 would only cement their rise.
If last season was the breakout, this year is the proving ground. And if the Bears are still considered underdogs, they’re the most dangerous kind-the kind with something to prove and the talent to back it up.