The Chicago Bears' 2026 offseason has found some early momentum, not from anything the franchise has done, but from possible NFC rivals being weakened.
Chicago's path to the top of the NFC has grown increasingly clear, and that has continued this week with the news that Seattle Seahawks' offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak is expected to take the Las Vegas Raiders' head coaching role. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero first reported the news, adding the caveat that while the move is expected, it is still pending.
Seattle's offense was elite this past season, averaging 29.2 points per game, ranking second-best among all NFL teams. Losing Kubiak is an unquestionable blow and should help the Bears not only in the bigger picture but also on the team's upcoming schedule. Chicago is part of Seattle's home schedule in 2026, traveling to a tough environment that just grew a bit easier. It is difficult to imagine that the Seahawks offense won't take a major step back if Kubiak goes to Las Vegas as expected.
Head coach Ben Johnson serves as evidence of this, after the talented play caller left the Detroit Lions, Detroit's offense promptly scored five fewer points per game. The Philadelphia Eagles are another recent example. After losing former OC Kellen Moore to the New Orleans Saints following their 2024 Super Bowl run, the Eagles scored five fewer points per game in 2025.
Bears Can't Help but Get Excited as Seahawks Appear Set for Regression
The two premier offensive coordinator hires of the 2025 offseason saw their former teams score just under a touchdown less per game following their respective departures. It isn't a stretch to believe the loss of Kubiak will have a similar impact on Seattle. Looking at the offensive playmakers on the Seahawks' roster, it is fair to point out that both the Eagles and Lions offered their new play callers a deeper pool of skill players, and both still suffered notable regression.
Having said that, Seattle is set to chase another Super Bowl title and deserves credit for their run. This doesn't offset the accomplishments or diminish the dominance of the 2025 season. Rather, it points to the increasing reality of expected regression and the window of contention that it is opening for the Bears.
Chicago continues to find ways to win, with the Packers, Eagles, and Seahawks all suffering notable coaching losses. While there is a long offseason ahead, there is no denying the excitement Chicago fans should have for a future growing increasingly bright as the Bears begin to build an argument as the top contender in the conference heading into 2026.