Much has been said about the fact that the Chicago Bears' 2026 schedule ranks at the top of the league when it comes to strength of schedule. This is based on winning percentage from a season ago, however, and shouldn't daunt a roster clearly poised to be among the league's top contenders. With this in mind, fans can enjoy the news that Chicago has at least one noted advantage when it comes to the 2026 schedule.
ESPN's Adam Schefter pointed out the air miles that each team is projected to travel in the 2026 season, with Chicago coming in at 30th, with only the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers facing lesser travel. This is huge and speaks to the fact that Chicago is often going to be closer to home and have the ability to stay fresher in comparison to its opponents.
A lot of this is due to the fact that the Bears are close in proximity to all of their division rivals as well as lacking an international game, givng Chicago another year off the difficult travel. This news helps offset what is clearly a difficult schedule in a division that is going to be hotly contested as the Bears become the hunted in the 2026 season.
Bears Schedule Offers Clear Travel Advantage Despite Degree of Difficulty
It is nice to find an angle that will give the Bears a bit of a reprieve in a schedule that is undeniably daunting. A big piece of this is playing in the NFC North, where the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers both have legitimate expectations of contention. These two teams, making up four of the games in Chicago's schedule goes a long way in explaining why the strength of schedule is the league's highest.
A factor that is, in many ways, offset by limited travel that offers a rest advantage and gives the Bears a better chance to defend their division title. While much is made about who you are playing, just as important is where and how much rest and time off you're able to give your roster in between matchups.
Having such a difficult schedule makes sure that Ben Johnson is going ot make the most of the lack of travel and keep his team as rested and fresh as possible. This is an undeniable advantage and should offset any fan concern when it comes to who the Bears are slated to play. No question, Chicago remains in a great position and should be considered among the NFC's biggest contenders heading into the 2026 season.
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