With the Chicago Bears just about a week away, who are the players on the roster who need to step up this year?
5 Chicago Bears who need to step up in 2026
Garrett Bradbury
All of the reports out of training camp are that Bradbury has been excellent. He has been communicating well with Caleb Williams, leading the offense, and there has been no competition between the veteran and rookie Logan Jones.
However, Bradbury is a player on his third team in as many years for a reason. He might be good in practice, but if he does not step up on the field, the team will struggle. Bradbury needs a big season.
Kentavius Street
Street is entering his eighth NFL season and perhaps the most important year in his NFL career. He has just 10 starts in his career, but right now he is on track to start in Week 1. Injuries have hurt his upside, but he has always had the talent to stick in the NFL.
Chicago traded Gervon Dexter to Atlanta and kept two rookies on their defensive line. There are a lot of snaps for the veteran if he can take advantage. Does he make the most of a golden opportunity?
Tyrique Stevenson
The Bears secondary has a lot of big questions. Both their starting safety and slot cornerback are unlikely to be on the field anytime soon. Now, Stevenson is entering what can be viewed as a make-or-break season. He is due a contract after this year. Whether he earns one with Chicago or somewhere else, his play this year will determine how much money he makes.
The Bears need him this year, though. If they cannot trust him on the outside, he could end up being benched.
D’Andre Swift
Swift is another player in a contract year. Roschon Johnson is the third-string running back due to special teams. Kyle Monangai is banged up. We know that Ben Johnson can scheme up the run well. If Swift can take advantage, he can get paid.
Rome Odunze
Odunze is entering a crucial third year. In his rookie year, the offense was a mess. He got hurt in his second NFL season. So, he has flashed potential; the team believes in him, but he has not lived up to it yet. If Odunze has a great year, the team will start to talk about an extension.
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