Chicago Bears Poised for Super Bowl Run in 2026

An eerie pattern has emerged in recent Super Bowl winners, pointing to a potential Bears championship next season.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Chicago Bears came close to reaching the NFC Championship in 2025, and many believe the team is on the verge of a breakthrough. A strange trend has emerged in recent Super Bowl winners - the Philadelphia Eagles and Seattle Seahawks both won the big game 20 years after losing it. The Bears lost Super Bowl XLI in 2006, so 2026 could be their year. To get over the top, the Bears will need continued growth from quarterback Caleb Williams and head coach Ben Johnson, as well as significant defensive improvements under coordinator Dennis Allen.

Why it matters

The Bears have not won a Super Bowl since 1985, and their last appearance was a heartbreaking loss to the Colts in 2006. A potential championship run in 2026 would end decades of frustration for the team's loyal fanbase and cement the Bears as a force to be reckoned with in the NFC.

The details

The Bears were one interception away from reaching the NFC Championship in 2025, showing they can compete with the best teams in the conference. Quarterback Caleb Williams and head coach Ben Johnson had a strong first season together, but Williams lacked efficiency which hurt the team in the playoffs. History shows QB-coach duos often make a big leap in their second year. The Bears' defense, led by coordinator Dennis Allen, was 23rd in the league in 2025, but Allen has proven he can get the most out of his unit. General manager Ryan Poles must find a way to significantly upgrade the defense through the draft, as the team lacks cap space and high picks.

  • The Chicago Bears lost Super Bowl XLI in 2006.
  • The Philadelphia Eagles won the Super Bowl in 2024, 20 years after losing it in 2004.
  • The Seattle Seahawks won the Super Bowl in 2025, 20 years after losing it in 2005.

The players

Caleb Williams

The Chicago Bears' starting quarterback, who had a strong first season in 2025 but needs to improve his efficiency.

Ben Johnson

The Chicago Bears' head coach, who is entering his second season with the team and has a history of success with quarterback-coach duos in their second year together.

Dennis Allen

The Chicago Bears' defensive coordinator, who has proven he can get the most out of his unit despite limited resources.

Ryan Poles

The Chicago Bears' general manager, who must find a way to significantly upgrade the team's defense through the draft despite lacking cap space and high picks.

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What they’re saying

“If you believe in the football gods, it might be time to start thinking 2026 will be Chicago's year.”

— Erik Lambert, Author (sportsmockery.com)

“History shows that there is often a lot of magic in QB and head coach duos in their second year together.”

— Erik Lambert, Author (sportsmockery.com)

What’s next

The Chicago Bears will look to build on their strong 2025 season and make a push for the Super Bowl in 2026, capitalizing on the potential eerie pattern of recent champions.

The takeaway

The Chicago Bears have the pieces in place to make a legitimate Super Bowl run in 2026, with their young quarterback-coach duo, a proven defensive coordinator, and a potential historical trend working in their favor. However, the team must find a way to significantly upgrade their defense through the draft to truly contend for a championship.