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Chicago Bears Fantasy Football News
Zavion Thomas an Intriguing Deep-League Stash Candidate Entering 2026
Entering 2026, Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Zavion Thomas projects to be his team's WR4 behind Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III (groin), and Kalif Raymond. Bears tight end Colston Loveland is also expected to be heavily featured in the team's passing game, pushing Thomas even further down the target pecking order. However, Thomas showed an ability to impact games as both a pass-catcher and a rusher during his college career, recording 488 receiving yards, 99 rushing yards, and five total touchdowns across 13 games at LSU in 2025. The 21-year-old also ran a blazing 4.28-second 40-yard dash at the Draft Combine, which likely played a role in the Bears using a third-round pick on him this past April. If Thomas can work his way into a consistent role in Chicago, he could become an explosive big-play threat in the Bears' offense. As a stash candidate in deeper league formats, Thomas could be an intriguing waiver wire target for fantasy managers.
Sep 8 · Source via
Chicago Bears Zavion ThomasRome Odunze Won't Practice Tuesday, Bears "Hopeful" for Week 1
Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (leg) will not practice on Tuesday, and head coach Ben Johnson told reporters he is considered "day-to-day." Johnson clarified that the 2024 first-round pick did not aggravate the foot injury that he dealt with last season but is instead dealing with "something different," and the team remains hopeful he'll be able to suit up for a Week 1 matchup with the Panthers. Odunze led the Bears with 87 targets in 2025 despite missing five games, and following the departure of veteran DJ Moore, there is an expectation of a further consolidation of opportunities between Odunze and second-year pass-catchers Luther Burden III and Colston Loveland. Fantasy managers will now need to monitor Odunze's status when the team releases its first official practice report on Wednesday.
Sep 8 · Source via Chicago Bears Rome OdunzeRoschon Johnson Could Step Into Week 1 Role
Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson could have a larger role as a backup to D'Andre Swift because of an injury to Kyle Monangai. Johnson has been impressive in camp amidst Monangai's injury struggles and even earned the eye of new offensive coordinator Press Taylor. Ariana Pensy of the Bears Wire wrote about Taylor's praise of Johnson this off-season, writing, ""As Kyle goes down and Roschon's numbers increase and he got more opportunities, he proved to us that he's trustworthy. He can be in those situations if it comes down to it where we need him to carry a heavier load than we expected while being involved in special teams. That's something he's done well." Monangai returned to practice on Monday reportedly but is dealing with a hyperextension of his right knee. Should Monangai miss time, the Bears have faith in Johnson as a backup.
Sep 8 · Source via Chicago Bears Roschon JohnsonRome Odunze Missing From Monday's Practice
Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (leg) was the only player missing from Monday's brisk, 50-minute practice, according to Brad Biggs of The Chicago Tribune. Odunze is still not back on the practice field after leaving Thursday's practice early with a right-leg injury. The 24-year-old's status will be closely monitored heading into the team's Week 1 regular-season opener this Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. We should have a better read on the former first-rounder's status for this coming weekend once the Bears release their first official practice report of the season on Wednesday. But for now, Odunze's status is firmly up in the air. If he is limited or out against the Panthers, receivers Luther Burden III (groin), Kalif Raymond, and Zavion Thomas could all see extra targets, as well as tight end Colston Loveland. Odunze regressed with 44 catches and 661 receiving yards in his sophomore season in 2025 while playing in just 12 games due to a foot injury, but he also had a career-high six receiving touchdowns, and he is expected to have a bigger role in 2026 with DJ Moore out of the picture. As of right now, Odunze is shaping up as a shaky WR3/flex in Week 1 in fantasy because of his leg injury.
Sep 7 · Source via Chicago Bears Rome OdunzeD'Andre Swift Returns to Practice on Monday
Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift (abdomen) was back at practice on Monday, according to The Chicago Tribune's Brad Biggs. The Bears held a brisk, 50-minute practice session, but it was good to see both Swift and Kyle Monangai (knee) back on the field. Swift was pulled from last Thursday's practice early with abdominal cramps, so the 27-year-old should be just fine for the Week 1 regular-season opener this Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. Monangai's status is a bit more uncertain after he suffered a hyperextended knee back on Aug. 16 in training camp. If Monangai is out or limited, Swift could see an even larger piece of the backfield pie to kick things off against Carolina this weekend, making him a must-start low-end RB1/high-end RB2 option as Chicago's starting RB. Swift finished as the RB14 in half-PPR scoring last year, producing 1,087 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on 223 carries while adding 34 receptions for 299 yards and another score through the air in 16 regular-season games. Swift could have an even better year in 2026 if the Bears' offense can take another step forward in head coach Ben Johnson's second season in the Windy City.
Sep 7 · Source via Chicago Bears D'Andre SwiftKyle Monangai Back at Practice on Monday
Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (knee) was back at Monday's practice, according to Brad Biggs of The Chicago Tribune. It was a brisk, 50-minute practice, but it is notable that Monangai was back on the field. Backfield mate D'Andre Swift said that Monangai "looked good" while doing some running before last Wednesday's practice following a hyperextension of his right knee in training camp practice back on Aug. 16. The 24-year-old was being considered week-to-week as early as last week, so although he has returned to practice on Monday, it is not a guarantee that he will be active for Sunday's Week 1 season opener against the Carolina Panthers. But with Swift also returning to practice on Monday, the Bears' backfield is looking much healthier entering the season opener. When fully healthy, Monangai, a seventh-rounder last year, will continue to be the primary change-of-pace option behind Swift after he recorded 783 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 169 carries in 2025 as a rookie. If Monangai is active on Sunday, he should be viewed as an RB4/flex option at risk of being on a snap count. If Monangai is inactive against Carolina, Roschon Johnson is expected to serve as the backup to Swift.
Sep 7 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiKalif Raymond Making Noise in Bears Camp
Chicago Bears wide receiver Kalif Raymond has spent the summer making a stronger case for offensive work than most expected when he signed in March. The veteran caught a 54-yard touchdown from Caleb Williams during an early camp practice, and the connection kept showing up from there. Williams found Raymond deep again on Aug. 18, hit him for a touchdown during the joint practice with Cincinnati and connected with him on another difficult downfield throw in padded work Sept. 3. Ben Johnson has praised what Raymond has brought to Chicago, while the Bears themselves noted that he excelled throughout camp. Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III still sit ahead of him in the receiver pecking order, so this isn't suddenly a high-volume fantasy role. Raymond caught only 24 passes for 289 yards and one touchdown with Detroit last season. Still, he's looked like more than just a return specialist this summer. RotoBaller has him at WR101 in half-PPR formats, keeping him mostly in the deep-league conversation for now.
Sep 6 · Source via Chicago Bears Kalif RaymondCole Kmet Has Fallen Off the Fantasy Radar
Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet is still going to play plenty of football. That doesn't mean fantasy managers need to care much anymore. Kmet's receiving work dropped to 30 catches for 347 yards and two touchdowns last season, while Colston Loveland quickly became one of Caleb Williams' most important targets. Loveland finished his rookie year with 58 receptions for 713 yards and six scores, then spent this summer looking every bit like the featured receiving tight end again. Chicago can keep both players on the field in its two-tight-end packages, and Kmet remains useful as a blocker, but that hasn't brought his old fantasy role back. RotoBaller had him at TE38 in half-PPR rankings in August and now has him at TE40, compared with TE3 for Loveland. Kmet is even down at TE47 for Week 1. There will probably be a touchdown or useful game here and there, but he's well outside the group fantasy managers need to chase on draft day.
Sep 6 · Source via Chicago Bears Cole KmetLuther Burden III Poised for Breakout Season Amidst Improving Health Outlook?
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) missed a large chunk of training camp after suffering a groin injury in early August. However, the second-year wideout returned to the practice field on Tuesday, and he appears to be trending toward being a full-go for Week 1. Across 15 games (five starts) as a rookie in 2025, Burden III recorded 47 catches for 652 yards and two touchdowns on 60 targets. His best stretch came at the end of the year, as he recorded 21 catches for 324 yards and a touchdown over his final four games of the regular season. Entering 2026, Burden III appears poised to play an even larger role in the Bears' passing game following the team's offseason trade of veteran wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills. As long as he remains on the field, Burden III could be in line for a breakout season.
Sep 5 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenColston Loveland Poised for High-End TE1 Season Following Dominant Close to 2025?
Across 16 games as a rookie in 2025, Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland recorded 58 catches for 713 yards and six touchdowns on 82 targets. The 22-year-old got off to a bit of a slow start, failing to record more than three catches or 38 receiving yards in any of his first six games as a pro. However, Loveland finished the year on a tear. Across his final four games of the year (including the playoffs), Loveland recorded 28 catches for 378 yards and two touchdowns on 38 targets. Entering 2026, Loveland looks poised for an even larger role in Chicago's passing game following the team's offseason trade of veteran wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills. Bears wideout Luther Burden III (groin) also missed significant time this summer with a groin injury, which could lead to him facing a reduced workload to begin the year. Loveland's value in drafts is soaring, but he carries high-end fantasy TE1 upside into his second NFL season.
Sep 4 · Source via Chicago Bears Colston LovelandD'Andre Swift is Dealing with a Cramp
According to Adam Schefter, Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift (abdomen) left early during Thursday's practice due to a cramp. Swift was reportedly in significant discomfort when he was forced to leave due to abdominal cramping. This is not good news for the Bears, who are already without Kyle Monangai (knee) right now. The hope is that this is a day-to-day issue for Swift and that he'll be back before the season opener. If not, Roschon Johnson could be a popular waiver wire pickup over the next few days. Fantasy managers will need to stay tuned for more updates on Swift.
Sep 3 · Source via Chicago Bears D'Andre SwiftKyle Monangai Does Not Practice on Thursday
Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (knee) missed another practice on Thursday, according to Zack Pearson of 247 Sports. Monangai suffered a hyperextended right knee in training camp practice on Aug. 16 and was deemed week-to-week earlier this week, but the good news is that the 24-year-old "looked good" while running on a side field on Wednesday, per starting RB D'Andre Swift. Monangai's status for Week 1 against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, Sept. 13, is firmly up in the air, and with Swift suffering an undisclosed injury of his own in Thursday's practice, Chicago's backfield is banged up with the regular-season opener closing in. With the statuses of both Monangai and Swift now in question, Roschon Johnson is becoming a bit more popular for some potential short-term value in Chicago's offense against Carolina in Week 1. Monangai produced an impressive 783 rushing yards and five rushing scores on 169 carries as a rookie after being taken in the seventh round out of Rutgers, but when Swift is healthy, he will continue to be the clear RB2 with little pass-catching upside. RotoBaller currently has him ranked as the No. 42 fantasy RB for the 2026 campaign.
Sep 3 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiBen Johnson has More Praise for Caleb Williams
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson has been liking what he has seen out of quarterback Caleb Williams as he prepares to take a step forward in his third NFL season in 2026, according to Larry Mayer of the team's official website. "I've seen a very composed person every time he steps into the building," Johnson said. "I think his teammates feel that as well. He's getting to the practice field early. He's making sure his part is taken care of. He's warmed up, he's ready to go. He stays after with the guys after practice on a regular basis. He's taking a lot of pride in his approach right now, and it trickles down to everyone around him. I think it's a great thing. He continues to grow up, and he's going to be a huge leader for us this year." The 24-year-old former first overall pick from USC has also been a more vocal leader after finishing as the QB8 in fantasy football after throwing for 3,942 yards, 27 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions in 17 regular-season starts in 2025 after taking a league-high 68 sacks as a rookie. Williams has shown a flair for the dramatic late in games, and his ability to produce off-script has been a strength of his. Despite losing receiver DJ Moore in an offseason trade, Williams still has plenty of weapons around him, and if he cleans some stuff up, he could take the next step as a passer for an up-and-coming Bears squad. Williams has plenty of appeal as a midrange to low-end QB1 in fantasy drafts for managers who wait a bit on the position.
Sep 3 · Source via Chicago Bears Caleb WilliamsD'Andre Swift Suffers Undisclosed Injury in Practice
Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift (undisclosed) left on Thursday in the final stages of the Bears' padded practice and appeared to be in "significant discomfort" as he went inside the tent, according to Dan Wiederer of The Athletic. Sean Hammond of The Chicago Tribune reports that Swift exited toward the end of a full team period after carrying the ball on the offense's own one-yard line. He came off the field apparently holding his midsection or core area. Head coach Ben Johnson will not meet with the media again until next week, so we may not have many details on Swift's injury until the Bears release their first official practice report next Wednesday in preparations for Week 1 of the regular season. When fully healthy, Swift is the clear lead back for a Bears offense on the rise, giving him clear high-end RB2 potential in fantasy football leagues. However, his injury on Thursday will make him a bit of a question mark until we learn the extent of his injury. Backfield mate Kyle Monangai (knee) is also week-to-week with a hyperextended knee and may not be available for Week 1 against the Carolina Panthers, potentially thrusting Roschon Johnson into the lead-back role if Swift cannot play.
Sep 3 · Source via Chicago Bears D'Andre SwiftRome Odunze Suffers Apparent Leg Injury in Practice
Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (leg) exited Thursday's practice early with an apparent injury, according to Sean Hammond of The Chicago Tribune. Odunze came up hobbling during an install period at the start of practice and appeared to be favoring his right leg. He was not overly concerned and tried to stay on the field before trainers pulled him to the side. Head coach Ben Johnson will not meet with the media until next week, so we might not get much information on the specifics of Odunze's injury until the Bears' first official practice report is released next Wednesday. The 24-year-old's injury does not sound overly serious, but it is another thing to worry about for fantasy managers after the former first-rounder dealt with a foot injury for much of last year. Odunze finished the 2025 regular season with a 44-661-6 line in just 12 games played, but the good news is that he has not shown any ill effects this summer from his foot injury, which appears to be behind him. The former Washington Husky wideout has an opportunity for a bigger role in Chicago in 2026 with DJ Moore out of town, but injury concerns make him more of a WR3/flex target as he enters Year 3 in the NFL. Stay tuned for an update on Odunze's injury status early next week.
Sep 3 · Source via Chicago Bears Rome OdunzeRoschon Johnson Finishes Camp Strong, Could Play a Role in Chicago
Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Press Taylor said that running back Roschon Johnson finished training camp strong and that the team can "trust him if someone goes down with an injury," per Zack Pearson of 247 Sports. Johnson appeared in just seven games in 2025 due to injury issues and has played a limited offensive role in his NFL career to this point, recording 519 rushing yards across 36 career games. However, he's excelled in short-yardage situations, which could lead to him stealing some touchdowns from Bears running backs D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai (knee). Additionally, Monangai's status for the start of the regular season is unclear as he battles a hyperextended knee. In deeper leagues, Johnson could be worth stashing in a bench spot should Monangai miss time.
Sep 3 · Source via Chicago Bears Roschon JohnsonKyle Monangai Does Some Running on Wednesday
Updating a previous report, Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift said that Kyle Monangai (knee) did some running at practice on Wednesday and looked good, according to Adam Hoge of CHGO Bears. Monangai did not practice with the rest of the team, though, and is considered week-to-week after hyperextending his right knee in training camp practice on Aug. 16. It is a positive sign that Monangai is doing some running, but it sounds like he still has some hurdles to clear before being cleared to play in the Week 1 regular-season opener next Sunday. If Monangai does not suit up for the season opener, Roschon Johnson would be in line for RB2 change-of-pace duties behind Swift against the Carolina Panthers. Monangai, a seventh-rounder last year out of Rutgers, carried the ball 169 times for 783 yards and five touchdowns in 17 regular-season games in 2025 as a rookie, but he caught only 18 passes for 164 yards. The 24-year-old will continue to be involved in head coach Ben Johnson's offense behind Swift, but his lack of pass-catching abilities limits his fantasy upside, especially in PPR formats. RotoBaller has Monangai ranked as the RB42 for 2026.
Sep 2 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiKyle Monangai Still Not Practicing
Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (knee) remained out of practice Wednesday, according to Jason Lieser of the Chicago Sun-Times. Monangai has not practiced since hyperextending his right knee during an Aug. 16 session, when he got tangled with defensive tackle Grady Jarrett. Head coach Ben Johnson said Tuesday that Monangai remains week-to-week, so his continued absence is not unexpected. The second-year back rushed for 783 yards and five touchdowns on 169 carries as a rookie, adding 18 catches for 164 yards. Chicago opens the season Sept. 13 at Carolina, leaving Monangai less than two weeks to get back on the field. His Week 1 status remains uncertain, and D'Andre Swift would be in line for a heavier workload if Monangai can't go.
Sep 2 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiLuther Burden III Will Practice Tuesday
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) will practice Tuesday, head coach Ben Johnson said, according to Mason Williams. Burden injured his groin during an Aug. 8 practice and missed the rest of the preseason. He returned to the field Aug. 26 but was limited to individual drills before heading inside when the Bears moved into 7-on-7 work. Tuesday's practice should give Chicago another look at where he stands as Week 1 approaches. Burden caught 47 passes for 652 yards and two touchdowns in 15 games as a rookie and is listed with the first-team offense on the Bears' current depth chart. Getting him back into team work would be another encouraging step, but his actual participation level Tuesday will matter more than the announcement itself.
Sep 1 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenKyle Monangai Week-to-Week With his Knee Injury
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson said that running back Kyle Monangai (knee) is more week-to-week with his knee injury, according to Mason Williams of NWI.com. Monangai suffered a right-knee injury in training camp practice on Aug. 16 and is still no closer to returning to the field, which is bad news for his availability for the Week 1 regular-season opener on Sunday, Sept. 13, against the Carolina Panthers. If the 24-year-old is not available to start the year, Roschon Johnson will be the favorite for change-of-pace backup duties behind starter D'Andre Swift. Monangai's injury makes Swift a more appealing RB2, at least in the short term. After being taken in the seventh round last year from Rutgers, Monangai impressed with 783 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns on 169 carries in 17 regular-season contests, adding only 18 receptions on 30 targets for 164 yards as a receiver. His knee injury and lack of receiving skills out of the backfield are causing him to slip on fantasy draft boards, and RotoBaller has Monangai ranked as the RB40 for the 2026 season. Despite his injury, Monangai is still the handcuff for Swift managers.
Sep 1 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiD'Andre Swift Should Remain an RB2 for Fantasy Managers in 2026
Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift had a solid 2025 season, tallying 1,087 rushing yards, 34 catches, 299 receiving yards, and 10 touchdowns. He saw his workload slip a little bit as Kyle Monangai took on a bigger role during the second half, but Swift still had control of the backfield by season's end. While Monangai is trending up ahead of 2026, it's hard to imagine the Bears shifting away from a backfield dynamic that clearly worked last year. Swift was highly efficient, and although he did share plenty of snaps and volume with Monangai, there's no doubt that he could have handled an every-down role if necessary. Having Monangai by his side to lighten his load and keep his legs fresh could actually be key for Swift heading into his age-27 season. The seventh-year NFL veteran may no longer be pushing for 20 touches per game, but with high efficiency on the ground and a persistent nose for the end zone, he's still a legitimate RB2 option in all fantasy leagues. The experts agree, as Swift ranks as the overall RB17 in RotoBaller's latest 2026 fantasy football rankings for redraft leagues.
Sep 1 · Source via Chicago Bears D'Andre SwiftRome Odunze Could Be Poised for a Breakout Campaign in 2026
Across 12 games in 2025, Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze recorded 44 catches for 661 yards and six touchdowns on 90 targets. The 24-year-old got off to a hot start to the year, but his production tailed off in the second half of the season, and he missed time with a foot injury down the stretch. Including the Bears' two playoff contests, Odunze recorded more than three receptions in just one out of seven games he suited up in after Week 8. However, Odunze has been healthy throughout this summer, reportedly having no issues with the foot injury that hampered him in 2025. In contrast, Bears wideout Luther Burden III (groin) has been dealing with a groin injury throughout much of training camp. Additionally, Chicago could be looking to funnel more targets to Odunze in 2026 after the team traded away veteran wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills at the start of the offseason. Entering the year, Odunze may be flying under the radar at his current redraft ADP of WR27.
Aug 31 · Source via Chicago Bears Rome OdunzeZavion Thomas Sets the Tone by Going 97 Yards on His First NFL Play
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Zavion Thomas did not participate in the team's first two preseason outings as he dealt with minor knee soreness earlier in camp, but he wasted no time making his presence felt on Saturday night. Thomas got behind the defense with a double move on the first play of his NFL career and outraced everyone for a 97-yard touchdown to set the tone in a 24-15 win over the Titans. He would finish the night with five catches on five targets and a team-leading 140 yards to go with his game-opening score, showcasing his value as a potential third or fourth receiver in what projects to be a high-powered Chicago offense. The Bears have no lack of playmakers atop the depth chart with second-year pass-catchers Luther Burden III and Colston Loveland and former ninth overall pick Rome Odunze. Still, Thomas' unique skill set could lead to manufactured touches in a gadget role and a path to fantasy relevance. Landing outside of RotoBaller's top 300 players, he is not a player who needs to be targeted in 2026 drafts, but his early-season involvement should be monitored, with fantasy managers ready to make a waiver claim.
Aug 30 · Source via Chicago Bears Zavion ThomasLuther Burden III "Looks 100%", Positive Sign for His Week 1 Availability
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) did not participate in the team's final preseason game as he continues to work his way back from the groin injury that has sidelined him for much of training camp, but following the Bears' 24-15 win over the Titans, head coach Ben Johnson offered some strong reassurance about his Week 1 availability. "He looks 100% to me," Johnson told the media. Burden had been a standout in nearly every session to begin camp, but went down to the ground and left with trainers after getting tangled with cornerback Tyrique Stevenson on August 8th and has not returned to practice since. Following Johnson's latest update, the arrow is pointing back up, and big things are expected of Burden in his second season, making him a potential league-winning selection at his currently discounted ADP of WR24.
Aug 30 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenColston Loveland Has a Premium Price Tag in Fantasy Drafts
Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland should offer TE1 upside in fantasy football this season, but it will come at a high price. Loveland currently has an ADP of 40.8, which corresponds to the fourth round of drafts and makes him the third tight end off the board. Loveland had a slow start to his career, but he turned things around and impressed during the second half of his rookie season. From Weeks 9-18, he scored six touchdowns and ranked as the overall TE2 behind only Trey McBride. In addition to possessing raw talent, Loveland should continue to benefit from playing in an upward-trending system led by offensive mastermind Ben Johnson. As it stands, he ranks as the overall TE3 in RotoBaller's latest redraft rankings, which falls in line with his current ADP. He's priced appropriately, so while managers will have to make a significant investment in order to draft Loveland, it should pay off with a top-five finish in fantasy football.
Aug 29 · Source via Chicago Bears Colston LovelandLuther Burden III "Moving Well," Trending Toward Week 1 Availability
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) is "moving well," the Chicago Tribune's Brad Biggs reported on Saturday. The 2025 second-round pick is "maybe not 100%, but he's running routes and getting in and out of his breaks," Biggs reported. Burden was injured in practice on Aug. 8 and only just returned to individual drills on Aug. 26. The Missouri product caught 47 receptions on 60 targets and had two touchdowns for Chicago in his rookie season in 2025. He is expected to have a larger role alongside Rome Odunze in his sophomore campaign since DJ Moore was traded to the Buffalo Bills in the offseason. Burden has breakout potential for 2026, but fantasy managers should keep an eye on his health since his status is not yet confirmed for Week 1. RotoBaller lists him at WR22, and he has a lot of upside if he starts the season healthy.
Aug 29 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenCaleb Williams Praised for the Strides He's Taken in the Red Zone
Ahead of Thursday's joint practice with the Titans, Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams was praised by his head coach for the advancement he's made in the red zone, and he backed those words up with another solid showing and a touchdown connection with Kaden Davis while working against Tennessee's top defense. "I think that's been probably the best thing so far this camp, just the anticipation, the timing, the understanding of where we want to put the football," Ben Johnson told reporters to begin the day. "He is not afraid to fit it into tight windows. He trusts his pass catchers. A year ago, a lot of the things were foreign to him, and now you can tell he has some banked reps and he's able to anticipate where he wants to go with the football." After finishing as the QB5 in a year where he left plenty of fantasy production on the bone, Williams is a candidate to take a significant step forward in his second season in Johnson's offense, and he could prove to be a league-winning value as the seventh quarterback off the board by current ADP.
Aug 28 · Source via Chicago Bears Caleb WilliamsKyle Monangai's Redraft Value Fading Amidst Current Injury Absence
After an encouraging rookie season in 2025 in which he recorded 783 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 169 carries across 17 games, Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (knee) entered training camp as one of the buzzier names in fantasy circles. Unfortunately, Monangai is currently sidelined after suffering a hyperextended knee during a camp practice. While Monangai is lucky to have avoided significant structural damage and could even return in time for the start of the regular season, he will have missed a significant chunk of the summer. The missed time matters for Monangai because he entered camp competing for touches with veteran Bears running back D'Andre Swift. Swift has been a steady player since signing with Chicago before the 2024 season, recording over 2,700 scrimmage yards and 16 touchdowns across 33 games with the team. Given his injury situation, Monangai seems likely to be Chicago's true RB2, at least early in the year. He still carries upside as a handcuff and stash option, but Monangai's stand-alone value in redraft leagues is in question entering 2026.
Aug 27 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiKaden Davis Impressing Coaches, Could Make a Push for Spot Roster Spot
The Chicago Bears signed wide receiver Kaden Davis in mid-June, after he had spent several months with the Houston Gamblers of the UFL, and with training camp winding down, he has made a strong push for a spot on Chicago's initial 53-man roster. An undrafted free agent in 2022, Davis has spent time with the Broncos, Cardinals, and Lions and appeared in three regular-season games for the Browns over the past two seasons. Working primarily as a special teamer, he has been given some run with the first-team offense, and on Wednesday special teams coordinator Richard Hightower couldn't help but sing his praises. "Kaden was a great acquisition that the front office made," he told reporters. "He works his tail off, really a joy to be around... I'm happy and excited to see what he'll bring to the table this week. He'll get more opportunities." The Bears pass-catching group is loaded at the top with tight end Colston Loveland and receivers Luther Burden III and Rome Odunze, so even if Davis makes the team, offensive opportunities will be few and far between, but he has become an easy player to root for and should see plenty of involvement in Chicago's preseason finale against the Titans.
Aug 27 · Source via Chicago Bears Kaden DavisD'Andre Swift Could Follow His Career Year with Another Strong Start
Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift has often been criticized for being a better athlete than NFL running back, but in his 2025 reunion with head coach Ben Johnson, he showed improved patience and better vision, leading to the best season of his career. Swift had the sixth-highest rushing success rate in the league on his way to an RB15 fantasy finish, and his ceiling could be even higher in year two of Johnson's Bears offense. Second-year player Kyle Monangai (knee) is dealing with a hyperextended knee, and with Chicago favored in five of its first six games, Swift has the opportunity to get off to a white-hot start in his seventh season. At RotoBaller's RB18, he is a player to target in the middle rounds of drafts who could see his value rise early in the year, presenting the opportunity to later flip him as a potential sell-high candidate.
Aug 27 · Source via Chicago Bears D'Andre SwiftLuther Burden III Gets Light Work in Return From Groin Injury
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) was back on the field Wednesday for the first time since getting injured on Aug. 8, according to Sean Hammond. Burden only took part in a short, light practice, so this wasn't a full return to action, but it's an encouraging step after more than two weeks on the sideline. The Bears previously expected him to miss the entire preseason while hoping to have him available for their Sept. 13 opener against Carolina. Burden remains listed as a starter on Chicago's latest unofficial depth chart after catching 47 passes for 652 yards and two touchdowns across 15 games as a rookie. With DJ Moore traded to Buffalo during the offseason, Burden is positioned for a larger role alongside Rome Odunze in his second season. Wednesday's limited work is a positive sign, though he'll still need to progress beyond a light practice before his Week 1 status can be considered settled.
Aug 26 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenKalif Raymond Making an Impact on Bears' Coaching Staff
Chicago Bears wide receiver/kick returner Kalif Raymond has done nothing but impress his teammates and the coaching staff during training camp this summer, according to Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic. "Man, Kalif is amazing," receiver Luther Burden III said. "He's really like a coach out there. He's a great guy on and off the field. You can learn from him. His release package is sick. He's a great guy, and he's out the roof. Kalif is a great leader for the team; he's the guy, man." Raymond has not had more than 300 yards receiving since 2023, but he has established himself as a Hall of Famer in work ethic and vibes, Fishbain writes. "This guy is the most selfless player I've ever been around," head coach Ben Johnson said. Raymond has reunited with Johnson, who was formerly the Lions' passing-game coordinator in 2021, when Raymond had 576 receiving yards and four touchdowns. When Johnson was the offensive coordinator in 2022, Raymond had 616 yards. Raymond has been the recipient of some of the team's most explosive plays this summer after initially being an afterthought signing to compete for the WR3 role behind Burden and Rome Odunze. Speed is what separates the 32-year-old veteran as both a receiver and a kick returner, but barring an injury to Burden or Odunze, Raymond is a hard sell for WR depth in standard 12-team fantasy leagues.
Aug 24 · Source via Chicago Bears Kalif RaymondCole Kmet Is Getting Harder to Draft
Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet is getting harder to make a redraft case for. He caught 30 passes for 347 yards and two touchdowns last season, and his offensive snap share fell from 88% in 2024 to 70%. Colston Loveland was the bigger problem. The 2025 first-rounder led Chicago with 58 catches for 713 yards and six touchdowns as a rookie, and nothing this summer suggests the passing-game pecking order is changing. Loveland caught another red-zone touchdown from Caleb Williams during Thursday's joint practice with Cincinnati, then had a 10-yard reception on the starters' only drive Saturday night. Chicago also used the 69th overall pick on Sam Roush, giving an offense that already leans heavily on two- and three-tight-end sets another option. Kmet can still play plenty because of his blocking, but that does not guarantee enough targets for fantasy. RotoBaller has him at TE40 and 285th overall in PPR. Unless Loveland misses time, Kmet looks more like depth than a tight end fantasy managers need to draft.
Aug 23 · Source via Chicago Bears Cole KmetRoschon Johnson Again Leads Bears' Backfield
Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson picked up 42 yards on 12 carries in his team's 27-9 loss to the hosting Cincinnati Bengals. He also gained a yard on his sole target. Johnson carried the load again, leading Chicago's backfield in rush attempts for the second consecutive outing. With backfield mate Kyle Monangai (knee) shelved for a few weeks and D'Andre Swift failing to suit up with the rest of the starters, it was Johnson in with the first-string and for most of the first half. While the University of Texas alum doesn't figure to be an impactful fantasy asset in 2026, it appears the Bears' RB3 job is his to lose for the time being. As it stands, that could spell a decent amount of work for Johnson to begin the campaign. That is, if Monangai hasn't fully recovered from a hyperextended knee by the time Week 1 rolls around. Chicago will hit the road again for their preseason finale, squaring off with the Tennessee Titans next Saturday.
Aug 23 · Source via Chicago Bears Roschon JohnsonColston Loveland Targeted Thrice on Opening Drive
Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland reeled in one of three targets for a gain of ten yards in Saturday's 27-9 preseason loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. The former Michigan Wolverine connected with quarterback Caleb Williams in the flat on Chicago's fifth play from scrimmage and turned upfield for a nice gain. That was the last time the duo would sync up, however, as Williams narrowly missed Loveland for a touchdown up the seam and had a pass batted down a play later. Misfires aside, it was a promising debut for the 22-year-old. More so, it's hopefully foreshadowing for the season ahead. Loveland is slated to be peppered with looks in 2026 - something he'll require to support his lofty price tag of the TE3 in ADP. Chicago will get the Tennessee Titans on the road for their preseason finale next Saturday, although it seems unlikely we'll see the second-year pro on the field for that contest.
Aug 23 · Source via Chicago Bears Colston LovelandRome Odunze Collects Red Zone Target in First Action
Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze caught one of two targets for 18 yards in his team's 27-9 loss to the hosting Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday. Odunze was a surprise start in this one - along with the rest of the first-string offense that suited up - although he only got a single series of plays. Despite Chicago making it all the way inside the red zone on its first possession, the drive stalled after a holding penalty and three straight incompletions by quarterback Caleb Williams - one of which was intended for the third-year wideout near the end zone. Odunze will face legitimate target competition from fellow wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) and tight end Colston Loveland in the upcoming season. However, the former looked the part of a WR1 at the beginning of 2025, and averaged 7.5 targets per game before a foot injury derailed the back half of his campaign. We'll see if Odunze suits up again for in-game action when Chicago squares off against the Tennessee Titans next Saturday.
Aug 23 · Source via Chicago Bears Rome OdunzeCaleb Williams Handles Lone Drive in Preseason Debut
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams completed two-of-five passes for 28 yards in Saturday's 27-9 road loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Head coach Ben Johnson indicated earlier in the week that the team's joint practice with Cincinnati would determine whether or not Chicago's starters would get reps in Week 2 of the preseason. Ultimately, most of the first-string attack played a lone drive, and it was a mixed bag for the third-year signal-caller. Williams completed his first two pass attempts of the series, but misfired on the final three after a holding call pushed the offense outside of the Bengals' 20-yard line. Aside from missing tight end Colston Loveland on a would-be touchdown, it was encouraging to see the 24-year-old take the checkdown read on more than one occasion. Whether we'll see the young gunslinger take the field again before the start of the regular season is anyone's guess. Either way, he has an exciting arsenal of weapons and would be poised for a massive year with a step forward in accuracy. Next up for Chicago is a bout with the hosting Tennessee Titans.
Aug 23 · Source via Chicago Bears Caleb WilliamsKaden Davis Earning Praise from His Quarterback in Training Camp
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams praised wide receiver Kaden Davis by saying that the wideout has "made plays," "been explosive," and "been fun to watch," per Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic. Davis has appeared in three games over the past two seasons with the Cleveland Browns but has yet to record his first NFL catch. However, the 27-year-old led the Bears with 88 receiving yards in the team's preseason opener, and Fishbain reports that Davis got some run with the first-team offense during Chicago's joint practice session with the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday. With Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) battling a groin injury, Chicago is looking for depth at the position behind star wideout Rome Odunze. It's still too early for fantasy managers to prioritize Davis, but he could be a name to keep an eye on in deeper leagues.
Aug 21 · Source via Chicago Bears Kaden DavisLuther Burden III Looks "Mostly Fine"
The Chicago Bears were in Cincinnati on Thursday for a joint practice with the Bengals, and while second-year wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) did not participate as he works his way back from the groin injury that has caused him to miss most of training camp, podcast hosts Adam Hoge and Adam Jahns expressed a lack of concern, saying that Burden looks "mostly fine." After a strong finish to his rookie season, Burden was the star of the opening days of training camp before getting tangled with a teammate and exiting practice on August 8. The hope has since been that he would be ready for the team's regular season opener against the Panthers on September 13. While the groin injury has caused an ADP dip in recent weeks, Burden is still RotoBaller's WR22, as all signs pre-injury pointed to the 22-year-old receiver becoming the focal point of a high-powered Bears offense.
Aug 21 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenCaleb Williams' Accuracy "Trending Upward"
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson said on Thursday that quarterback Caleb Williams' accuracy is "trending upward," per Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk. After going through some growing pains as a rookie in 2024, Williams made significant improvements in his first season playing under Johnson in 2025. Across 17 games, the 24-year-old threw for 3,942 yards, 27 touchdowns, and seven interceptions while also rushing for 388 yards and three scores. However, Williams completed just 58.1% of his pass attempts and has shown a tendency to miss on simple throws more consistently than would be expected from a highly-talented quarterback. If Williams can continue to fine-tune his raw skills while maintaining his ability to make spectacular plays and throws, he could be in line for a monster breakout in 2026. Fantasy managers should view Williams as a low-end QB1 with upside.
Aug 20 · Source via Chicago Bears Caleb WilliamsRome Odunze's Foot Hasn't Been an Issue
Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze has had no issues with his foot during training camp. Odunze suffered a foot stress fracture that caused him to miss five games. He didn't sound 100% confident about the injury during the offseason, saying, "He will have to learn to adapt to the new normal." The third-year receiver put all concerns to rest during camp, participating in all 15 practices so far this summer, and said on Tuesday, "I don't think about it." Over his two seasons with the Bears, Odunze has totaled 1,395 yards and nine touchdowns on 98 receptions. Odunze's fantasy value entering the 2026 season is lower than anticipated, as young playmakers Luther Burden III and Colston Loveland have stolen the limelight. With the foot injury not a factor so far, fantasy managers should feel comfortable taking Odunze in the mid-rounds of drafts.
Aug 20 · Source via Chicago Bears Rome OdunzeIs Colston Loveland the Top Bears Pass Catcher?
Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland is a Year 2 breakout candidate, and he has the potential to operate as quarterback Caleb Williams' favorite target in 2026. As a rookie last year, Loveland caught 58 passes for 713 yards and six touchdowns, despite operating behind Cole Kmet for a sizable portion of the season. Now that Loveland has staked his claim as the clear-cut No. 1 tight end in Chicago, he is trending up in fantasy football and has a chance to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards. There's suddenly an interesting conversation to be had regarding which Bears pass-catcher offers the most fantasy value between Loveland, Luther Burden III (groin), and Rome Odunze. At the moment, Loveland has an ADP of 44.6, which is just one spot higher than Burden and nearly eight spots higher than Odunze. RotoBaller's "Who Should I Draft?" tool agrees with the general population, suggesting Loveland as the ideal pick over Burden and Odunze.
Aug 17 · Source via Chicago Bears Colston LovelandKyle Monangai to Miss Multiple Weeks With Hyperextended Knee
Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (knee) suffered a hyperextended knee during training camp practice on Sunday and is expected to miss multiple weeks, a source told Jeremy Fowler of ESPN. However, the MRI outcome is considered positive, and the 24-year-old's knee is structurally sound. Monangai will most likely miss the team's final two preseason games as he tries to rehab and get ready to play in the Week 1 regular-season opener on Sunday, Sept. 13, against the Carolina Panthers. With Monangai sidelined for the next couple of weeks, Roschon Johnson, Salvon Ahmed, and Brittain Brown will get more opportunities to play behind starter D'Andre Swift in Chicago's backfield. After being selected in the seventh round from Rutgers in 2025, Monangai had 169 rushing attempts for 783 yards and five touchdowns in 17 games in his first NFL season, adding 18 receptions for 164 yards as a pass-catcher. He is still the handcuff option to Swift, but his lack of pass-catching upside makes him a better RB3/flex target in standard-scoring fantasy leagues in 2026.
Aug 17 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiD'Andre Swift a Middle-Round Value in an Ascending Offense
Throughout his first six years in the league, Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift has had his detractors, but he has never finished outside the top 24 of his position, and in reuniting with head coach Ben Johnson in 2025, he turned in a career-best RB15 fantasy finish. Splitting work with rookie Kyle Monangai (knee), Swift topped 1,000 rushing yards for the second time in his career while tying his high mark of 10 total touchdowns. Monangai left Sunday's practice with a knee injury, and while it's not believed to be overly serious, his absence serves as a reminder that any time missed could lead to a bell-cow role for Swift in what projects to be one of the highest-scoring offenses in the league. Currently being drafted as the RB22, Swift can meet expectations simply by performing to the level he always has, but with multiple avenues for further upside, he could prove to be one of the better values in the middle rounds of 2026 drafts.
Aug 17 · Source via Chicago Bears D'Andre SwiftKyle Monangai Expected to be Fine After Exiting Practice
Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (knee) is expected to be "fine" despite exiting Sunday's practice with a knee injury, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.com. Initial tests reportedly showed that Monangai's knee is structurally sound, but the team will do an MRI to confirm his status. We may see the Bears hold Monangai out of a few practices or a preseason game out of an abundance of caution, but it doesn't sound like he'll miss any time during the regular season. The 24-year-old is looking to build off an impressive rookie season during which he tallied 783 rushing yards, 164 receiving yards, and five touchdowns. He was the RB30 in PPR leagues despite operating behind D'Andre Swift last year. Swift remains in the backfield for 2026, but Monangai should be able to carve out a sizable role in Ben Johnson's offense, positioning him as a strong RB3/flex option once again this year.
Aug 16 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiKyle Monangai Suffers Knee Injury, Limps Off Practice Field
Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (knee) left Sunday's practice after getting tangled with defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, according to Sean Hammond. The two went to the ground during a non-padded period, and Monangai eventually limped off the field with a trainer. Hammond also noted that Jarrett was visibly upset after the play. The second-year back is listed behind D'Andre Swift on Chicago's current unofficial depth chart after a productive rookie season. Monangai rushed 169 times for 783 yards and five touchdowns in 2025, adding 18 catches for 164 yards. He and Swift were the only running back tandem in the NFL to each top 750 rushing yards last season. It's too early to know whether Sunday's injury will cost Monangai any time, but his status now becomes an important one to watch in Chicago's backfield. Roschon Johnson is currently listed third at running back behind Swift and Monangai.
Aug 16 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiKaden Davis Busy in Bears Debut, Draws Team-High Targets
Chicago Bears wide receiver Kaden Davis made a strong first impression in Saturday's 34-10 preseason win over the Cleveland Browns. Davis started with most of Chicago's regulars sitting and caught four passes for 88 yards on six targets, tying Maurice Alexander for the team lead in targets. All four of his catches came in the first half, including a 41-yard connection with Tyson Bagent and a pair of 21-yard grabs on the drive that set up Cairo Santos' field goal before halftime. The performance wasn't completely out of nowhere. Davis and Bagent have connected several times during training camp, including on a 70-plus-yard touchdown at Thursday's practice. Chicago signed Davis in June after he spent the spring with the UFL's Houston Gamblers, and he's still fighting for a roster spot in a crowded receiver room. Saturday gave him a real chance to stand out, and 88 yards on six looks certainly helped his case.
Aug 16 · Source via Chicago Bears Kaden DavisLuther Burden III Putting in Pre-Game Work
The Chicago Bears face the Cleveland Browns in a Saturday afternoon tilt to open their preseason slate, and while second-year wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) will not take part as he recovers from the groin injury that has held him out of the last week of practices, he was spotted putting in some light work before the game. Without overexerting himself, Burden was seen jogging about 30 yards before slowing to a walk into the end zone. The 22-year-old is not expected to make any preseason appearances, but the team remains hopeful he will be available for the regular-season opener against the Panthers on September 13. Prior to the injury, Burden had generated significant training camp buzz and projects to be a focal point of the Bears' offense in 2026.
Aug 15 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenCaleb Williams in "Complete Control" of Bears Offense
After entering his second training camp down 10-15 pounds, Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams was one of the team's best players through the opening days of summer practices, routinely making the type of highlight plays that defined his 2025 season. As practices began to stack, however, he hit a lull that head coach Ben Johnson has shouldered responsibility for, recently telling reporters, "Those first four practices I thought were really, really good, and then as the volume has continued to go up -- and it's my fault as much as anything, just because I think I've put in more this year on offense than I did a year ago by design." In recounting Williams' electric finish to one of the team's most recent practices, ESPN's Courtney Cronin points to evidence that the lull has been snapped, and Johnson would seem to agree, also saying of his 24-year-old quarterback, "He's taken complete control of what we're trying to do, and so we're on the right track." Williams is RotoBaller's QB8, but with one of the league's most dynamic surrounding casts, he is fully capable of cracking the top five after a QB6 finish in his second season.
Aug 14 · Source via Chicago Bears Caleb WilliamsKyle Monangai More Than Just a Handcuff Running Back
Chicago Bears 24-year-old running back Kyle Monangai enters his second full season as the RB2 in an elite Bears offense, and during his rookie season he rushed for 783 yards and five touchdowns on 169 carries (4.63 YPC), and saw 30 targets for 164 yards. The Bears ranked fifth in the NFL last season in team run plays per game, and Monangai benefited greatly from that. He was 17th in the NFL in yards per touch. While he was successful on a per-touch basis, his explosiveness and efficiency left room for improvement. He was 31st in explosive rating and 34th in juke rate, to go along with 44th in yards created per touch, which accounts for all yards above and beyond what was blocked per carry and reception after the first evaded tackle. Backfield mate D'Andre Swift remains the clear No. 1 running back in this offense, but Monangai still carries fantasy appeal with Swift in the picture. RotoBaller ranks him as the RB35 off the board, and fantasy managers looking to stash a running back with some upside should look to target Monangai in redraft formats. Given his age, he is also a good dynasty option as well.
Aug 13 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiRome Odunze Could Emerge As Bears' WR1
With second-year wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) expected to miss time in the preseason, wideout Rome Odunze has an opportunity to make his case for Chicago's WR1 spot. Odunze hauled in 44 of 90 passes for 661 yards and six touchdowns in 12 games, averaging just over 10 half-PPR fantasy points per game. Odunze had a fantastic start to the 2025 season, averaging over 13 points per game and scoring five touchdowns in the first eight weeks. With D.J. Moore's departure and Burden dealing with an injury that could affect his Week 1 status, Odunze could step into a heavy workload to start the season. Currently ranked WR33 in RotoBaller's positional rankings, the former ninth overall pick could be a great value if he can build on his sophomore season.
Aug 13 · Source via Chicago Bears Rome OdunzeKalif Raymond Is Becoming More Interesting in Deep Leagues
Chicago Bears wide receiver Kalif Raymond has probably earned a bigger offensive role than most expected when he signed in March. Ben Johnson has praised him throughout the offseason, and Raymond has backed that up in camp, including a 54-yard touchdown from Caleb Williams during an 11-on-11 period. Chicago still lists him behind Rome Odunze on the depth chart, with Luther Burden III starting at the other receiver spot, so the path to steady targets is not especially clean. Colston Loveland and Cole Kmet will be involved too. Raymond also sits atop both return jobs, which guarantees he will have a weekly role even if the offensive touches come and go. He caught 24 passes for 289 yards and one touchdown with Detroit last season, so there is not much recent fantasy production to lean on. RotoBaller has him at WR94, which feels about right for normal redraft leagues. He is more interesting than he was a month ago, but that mostly matters in deep formats or leagues that reward return production.
Aug 13 · Source via Chicago Bears Kalif RaymondCaleb Williams to Sit Out of Preseason Opener
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson said that the team will sit "a number" of their starters in their preseason opener on Saturday against the Cleveland Browns, which includes quarterback Caleb Williams, who will not play, according to Courtney Cronin of ESPN. Johnson could very well rest Williams for the entire preseason as he heads into his third year as the team's starter in 2026. With the 24-year-old sitting this weekend, QBs Tyson Bagent, Case Keenum, and Miller Moss should all see playing time against the Browns. In his second NFL season in 2025, Williams, the former first overall pick out of USC, took a step forward with 3,942 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions in 17 starts after he took a league-high 68 sacks as a rookie. He also added 383 rushing yards and three rushing TDs to finish as a top-10 fantasy signal-caller. Even though Williams lost receiver DJ Moore to an offseason trade, the third-year QB has plenty of weapons to work with, and he has the overall athleticism to take another step forward in Johnson's system with potential to become a high-end QB1 sooner rather than later. RotoBaller has Williams ranked as the QB8 for 2026.
Aug 13 · Source via Chicago Bears Caleb WilliamsCaleb Williams Looks Ready to Build on QB6 Finish
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams already made a pretty big jump last season, and there is still plenty he can clean up. He threw for a franchise-record 3,942 yards with 27 touchdowns and seven interceptions, added 388 yards and three scores as a runner, and finished as the QB6. Williams also took only 24 sacks after being dropped 68 times as a rookie. The funny part is that he did all of that while completing just 58.1% of his passes. Another year in Ben Johnson's offense should help there, especially with Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III, Colston Loveland and Cole Kmet all back. Williams has had some sharp stretches in camp, too, including a 9-for-10 red-zone period with five touchdowns and a perfect 6-for-6 two-minute drive the following day. RotoBaller has him at QB8 entering 2026, so he is already being drafted as an every-week starter. There is still room above that, though. If the accuracy ticks up or Williams gives fantasy managers a little more with his legs, another top-six season is hardly asking for a huge leap.
Aug 12 · Source via Chicago Bears Caleb WilliamsCole Kmet's Role Could Shrink Further in 2026
Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet enters the 2026 season with an uncertain workload. Last season, Kmet recorded 30 receptions for 347 yards and two touchdowns in 16 games, marking his worst stat line since his 2020 rookie season. The addition of 2025 first-round pick Colston Loveland significantly reduced Kmet's usual workload, dropping his snap share from 88% to 70% in 2025. Loveland's addition hurts Kmet's fantasy outlook, and the addition of third-round rookie Sam Roush could also take Kmet off the field this season. Roush is a willing blocking tight end who, after being drafted, said he "loves getting in the trenches and getting dirty." While Kmet could be a trade candidate during the season, which could help his fantasy value, he may be stuck outside the Top 50 at the position in 2026 if Roush starts the season strong.
Aug 11 · Source via Chicago Bears Cole KmetLuther Burden III Hopeful to Play in Week 1
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) is hopeful to be ready for the beginning of the regular season, Courtney Cronin of ESPN reports. The second-year wideout suffered a groin injury during Saturday's practice. He's expected to miss all of the preseason games while recovering from this injury. The Bears don't have their season opener until Sept. 13, so Burden has plenty of time to recover and get in game shape. The 22-year-old is a potential breakout candidate with DJ Moore no longer in Chicago. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status closely over the next month.
Aug 11 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenLuther Burden III Present at Monday Walkthrough
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) was present and walking around during Monday's walkthrough, according to Sean Hammond. Burden suffered the injury during Saturday's practice after landing awkwardly while attempting a contested catch and remains sidelined from football activity. The second-year receiver is expected to miss the preseason, though current reporting indicates that Chicago expects him to be ready for its Week 1 matchup against Carolina on September 13. Burden caught 47 passes for 652 yards and two touchdowns across 15 games as a rookie and entered training camp preparing for an expanded role following the offseason trade of DJ Moore. His presence at Monday's walkthrough does not represent a return to practice, so the next meaningful development will be when Burden is able to resume on-field work.
Aug 10 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenLuther Burden III Expected to Miss the Preseason, Could Still Play in Week 1
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) is expected to miss about a month, with the hope that he'll be available for the season opener against the Carolina Panthers on September 13, according to Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports. The second-year wideout had been one of the team's training camp standouts before exiting Saturday's practice with a groin injury after getting tangled with cornerback Tyrique Stevenson during one-on-one drills. After a strong finish to his rookie year, Burden has been tabbed as a breakout candidate and was one of the fastest risers throughout much of the offseason with a current ADP of WR20, but the injury is likely to cause uncertainty and could cause him to slip in upcoming drafts.
Aug 10 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenLuther Burden III Expected to Miss Time With Groin Injury
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (groin) is expected to miss some time after suffering the injury during Saturday's practice, according to Ian Rapoport. Burden left the field after landing awkwardly while attempting a contested catch and went inside with a trainer. The second-year receiver had been one of Chicago's standouts throughout camp after catching 47 passes for 652 yards and two touchdowns as a rookie. His opportunity is considerably larger this season following the trade of DJ Moore, with Burden and Rome Odunze positioned to play major roles alongside Caleb Williams. Head coach Ben Johnson has also praised Burden's development throughout the offseason, particularly his explosiveness and expanding route tree. No firm timetable has been given, so the main concern now is how much valuable camp work Burden loses while preparing for that expanded role.
Aug 9 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenExpectations Rising Even Higher for Colston Loveland
On a day where a potential injury dominated most of the headlines out of Chicago Bears training camp, tight end Colston Loveland kept the momentum of what has been a strong summer, finding the end zone twice during red zone work. Wide receiver Luther Burden III (lower body) exited practice early, limping off the field after getting tangled with cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, and should he miss any time, even more could be asked of Loveland with his year two expectations already sky high. Loveland is RotoBaller's TE3, and following the departure of veteran DJ Moore, there's an assumption that targets will be funneled primarily through Loveland, Burden, and Rome Odunze. While further news is awaited, Burden's early exit from practice serves as a reminder that if one of the three should miss any time throughout the year, the others would boast week-winning potential.
Aug 9 · Source via Chicago Bears Colston LovelandLuther Burden III Exits Early With Apparent Lower-Body Injury
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (lower body) exited Saturday's training camp practice early with an apparent lower body injury, according to Courtney R. Cronin of ESPN. Burden sustained the injury when he collided with teammate defensive back Tyrique Stevenson while Stevenson broke up a pass from quarterback Caleb Williams. According to Cronin, Burden walked gingerly toward the weight room under his own power and did not return to practice. The 22-year-old appeared to have avoided a serious injury and is considered day-to-day for now. Burden is set for an expanded role in the Bears' high-octane offense with the departure of DJ Moore. He caught 47 passes for 652 yards and two touchdowns over 15 games last season. Burden's fantasy stock is on the rise, and he was praised by the Bears' coaching staff for having an outstanding training camp this summer. The Bears will provide a further update soon, as fantasy managers should continue to monitor the situation.
Aug 8 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenLuther Burden III Limps Off Field on Saturday
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (lower body) limped off the practice field on Saturday. Burden and cornerback Tyrique Stevenson were in a 1-on-1 drill when both players were injured. Burden, accompanied by a training staff member, limped to the locker room for further evaluation. The second-year receiver has been a terror at Bears' practices this summer, earning high praise from head coach Ben Johnson. Johnson stated that "it was his destiny to be one of the best wide receivers in the NFL" and compared him to Lions wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown and former Dolphins and Browns receiver Jarvis Landry. Fantasy managers will hope Burden left today's practice with only a minor injury, but we'll have to wait for an update and hope for the best.
Aug 8 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenColston Loveland Eyeing Second-Year Breakout
After a stellar finish to the 2025 season, Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland is aiming for a massive second season in 2026. Loveland hauled in 58 of 82 targets for 713 yards and six touchdowns as a rookie, but he really hit his stride after Week 9. He had 41 receptions on 57 targets for 479 yards and four touchdowns in the nine regular-season games after he took over as Chicago's starting tight end. And in two playoff games, Loveland caught 12 of his 25 targets for another 193 receiving yards. Not only is he further cemented in Ben Johnson's offense, but he could also develop a better connection with Caleb Williams. With wide receiver D.J. Moore gone, that should open up more work for Loveland. A 25% target share could be in the making, as Johnson loves featuring tight ends in the passing game, as he did with Sam LaPorta in 2023 and 2024. While Loveland's price is high, going as the TE3 in RotoBaller's rankings, he could contend for the number one tight end in fantasy if Williams improves on last year.
Aug 7 · Source via Chicago Bears Colston LovelandD'Andre Swift Could Have Expanded Role in 2026
Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift ran for a career-high 1,087 yards and nine touchdowns in 2025, but in catching a career-low 34 passes, head coach Ben Johnson views that as an area where he can still get his lead back more involved. Swift earned 148 targets in his two seasons with Johnson at passing game coordinator and offensive coordinator in Detroit, and while praising Swift as a runner, Johnson recently told reporters he wants to "continue to look at and challenge him" on receiving opportunities. How many opportunities will truly present themselves in an offense with Luther Burden III, Rome Odunze, and Colston Loveland is a question for debate, but even a modest increase to his receiving production could push Swift into RB1 territory after a top 15 finish in 2025.
Aug 7 · Source via Chicago Bears D'Andre SwiftD'Andre Swift Eyeing More Explosive Runs in 2026
Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift set career highs of 1,087 rushing yards and nine rushing scores in his second season with the Bears, but there's one area of his game that he feels he can still improve. 2025 was the first season in his six-year career that he did not break a run for at least 25 yards, something he spoke about with reporters on Tuesday. "The only thing I was missing last year that I need to do a better job of is I need more explosive runs, longer runs," he said. "I need to showcase that. I didn't have a lot of those last year. I think we can go out there and improve that." Detailing where that improvement can come from, Swift shared his goals of "creating more space for myself" and "making the most out of when I do get space." The Bears have been lauded all offseason as an offense on the rise, with expectations high for quarterback Caleb Williams and a young group of pass-catchers in year two under Ben Johnson. Still, at RotoBaller's RB19, Swift has become somewhat of a forgotten piece and could prove to be one of the better values in 2026 drafts.
Aug 5 · Source via Chicago Bears D'Andre SwiftKyle Monangai Returns to Team Drills on Tuesday
The Athletic's Kevin Fishbain reports that Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (undisclosed) returned to team drills in training camp practice on Tuesday. Monangai recently missed some practices due to an undisclosed soft-tissue injury, but the Bears never seemed very concerned, and the second-year RB is now making his way back into team drills this week. Fantasy managers should have no concerns at this point regarding Monangai potentially missing the start of the 2026 regular season. The 24-year-old former seventh-round pick last year from Rutgers had a nice showing in his first NFL season in 2025 while sharing the backfield with RB1 D'Andre Swift, carrying the ball 169 times for 783 yards and five touchdowns in 17 regular-season games (one start). He wasn't very efficient as a pass-catcher, though, catching 18 of 30 targets for 164 yards as a receiver. Monangai is set to reprise his role as a backfield complement to Swift in 2026, limiting his weekly fantasy football upside as more of an RB3/flex play. He's a must-have as a handcuff if you draft Swift early on.
Aug 4 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiLuther Burden III Slow to Get Up After Goal-Line Hit
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III was slow to get up after taking a hit from linebacker Devin Bush near the goal line late in Tuesday's practice, according to Brad Biggs. The contact came from behind on a fourth-down pass during a two-minute period, and Burden walked off the field slowly under his own power. No injury or follow-up evaluation has been reported, so his status should be treated as uncertain rather than assuming he avoided an issue. Burden caught 47 passes for 652 yards and two touchdowns as a rookie while adding 37 yards on six carries. He enters his second season as one of Chicago's key receiving options alongside Rome Odunze. The next update from the Bears, or Burden's participation in the next practice, should provide a better idea of whether the hit will cost him any time.
Aug 4 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenKyle Monangai Back on Field After Brief Absence
Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai returned to the field Monday after missing three straight practices with what head coach Ben Johnson described as a soft-tissue issue, according to Chris Emma. Monangai was in full pads for warmups and drills, but it was not immediately clear how much team work he handled. The second-year back is coming off an impressive rookie season, rushing 169 times for 783 yards and five touchdowns while adding 18 catches for 164 yards across 17 games. He and D'Andre Swift became the only running back duo in the NFL to each top 750 rushing yards in 2025, helping Chicago finish third in the league with 2,456 rushing yards. Monday's return is encouraging after the short absence, though his practice workload will be worth watching over the next few days. Monangai remains an important part of Chicago's backfield and carries standalone fantasy appeal alongside Swift.
Aug 3 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiLuther Burden III the "Clear Front-Runner to be WR1"
Chicago Bears second-year wide receiver Luther Burden III had a few tough catches down the sideline during training camp practice on Monday and is the "clear front-runner to be the WR1" for the Bears this year, according to 247 Sports. The Burden "hype is real." Burden has been the most popular second-year breakout candidate in fantasy circles pretty much all offseason after he came on strong late last year for the Bears. It's a no-brainer because Chicago traded away veteran receiver DJ Moore in the offseason, giving Burden a clear path to more targets and a sizeable role in the passing game in an ascending Bears offense under head coach Ben Johnson. The 22-year-old former second-rounder from the University of Missouri caught 47 of his 60 targets for 652 yards and two touchdowns in 15 regular-season games (five starts) in 2025 as a rookie and has done nothing but draw praise from the coaching staff all offseason. The hype has gotten out, so don't expect Burden to come cheap as a WR2 with upside in upcoming fantasy football drafts. RotoBaller has Burden ranked as the No. 21 fantasy WR for 2026.
Aug 3 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenBen Johnson Compares Luther Burden III to Lions Star WR
Chicago Bears second-year wide receiver Luther Burden III has been one of the most dramatic risers throughout the 2026 draft season, and the recent comparison made by his head coach Ben Johnson will do nothing to slow the momentum. In an interview with Cassie Carlson of Fox 32, Johnson compared Burden's mindset to those of Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jarvis Landry, two receivers he spent time with in Detroit and Miami. Johnson had remarked earlier in the offseason that Burden is destined to become one of the top receivers in the NFL, and when asked to expand, the second-year head coach linked him to two players with nine Pro Bowl selections between them, saying, "He's got that competitive edge and desire to be great. It's carried over into the spring and summer as well. He's been a regular in the building, working with our strength staff. He wants to be the most conditioned player on the team. Wants to be one of the strongest receivers on the team and just continues to soak in all the knowledge." Burden is RotoBaller's WR21, but he has the clear belief of his coach and a ceiling to emerge as a fantasy WR1 in his second season.
Aug 3 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenKyle Monangai's Injury "Status Quo"
Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (undisclosed) has missed multiple training camp practices with an undisclosed ailment, but head coach Ben Johnson does not seem overly concerned, referring to the soft-tissue injury as "status quo." Monangai has been tabbed as a popular breakout candidate after flashing whenever seeing an expanded role as a rookie, averaging 153 rushing yards in the two games in which he saw more than 20 carries. His recent absence has created an opportunity for veteran Salvon Ahmed to work behind starter D'Andre Swift, who led the team with 1,087 rushing yards and nine touchdowns in 2025. Still, with Monangai sounding as if he may soon return to practice, he'll look to force more of a committee in 2026. Monangai is RotoBaller's RB35, and on standalone value alone, he should be able to meet ADP expectations, while his insurance upside is what makes him an attractive pick in the later rounds of drafts.
Aug 3 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiKyle Monangai Missing Another Practice on Saturday
Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (undisclosed) is missing his second consecutive training camp practice on Saturday for undisclosed reasons, according to Brad Biggs of The Chicago Tribune. It's unclear why Monangai is absent, but for now we'll consider him day-to-day. With the 24-year-old missing practice on Friday, Salvon Ahmed stepped into RB2 duties behind D'Andre Swift, but Roschon Johnson and Brittain Brown could compete for RB2 duties alongside Ahmed if Monangai misses more time this summer. Monangai had 169 carries for 783 yards (4.6 yards per carry) and five rushing touchdowns in 17 regular-season games as a rookie in 2025 after being taken in the seventh round out of Rutgers. He added 18 receptions on 30 targets for 164 yards and zero touchdowns as Swift's primary complement out of the backfield. Monangai is expected to resume RB2 duties in 2026 as long as he's healthy, limiting his weekly fantasy upside as more of an RB3/flex option in standard-scoring leagues because of his limitations as a pass-catcher. RotoBaller currently has Monangai ranked as the No. 35 RB.
Aug 1 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiKyle Monangai Remains Out of Practice
Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (undisclosed) remains out of training camp practice on Friday for a second straight day, according to Courtney Cronin of ESPN. With Monangai out for undisclosed reasons, Salvon Ahmed is getting Monangai's reps behind starter D'Andre Swift. The 24-year-old Monangai should be considered day-to-day until we know more about his situation. Hopefully, he'll be able to get back on the practice field at some point this weekend. As a rookie in 2025, Monangai had 169 rushing attempts for 783 yards (4.6 yards per carry) and five touchdowns while adding 18 receptions on 30 targets for 164 yards as a receiver in 17 regular-season games (one start). He's expected to resume his role in 2026 as a complementary option to Swift in Chicago's backfield, limiting his overall fantasy upside. Monangai also isn't a particularly strong receiver, so his only real path to an improvement in Year 2 is to see more goal-line work and vulture touchdowns from Swift. Fantasy managers should consider the second-year back as a TD-dependent RB3/flex and a strong handcuff to Swift.
Jul 31 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiLuther Burden III Poised to Take a Year Two Jump
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III has been heavily involved in all aspects of the team's passing offense through the early days of training camp, and offensive coordinator Press Taylor spoke to reporters on Thursday about the growth of the dynamic second-year player. "You saw in the spring, he was one of those guys where you really saw the skill set flourish. Now he's not thinking quite as much. He's able to just go out, react, play." Since the Bears traded veteran receiver DJ Moore to the Bills in March, offseason narratives have focused on how targets will be divvied up between a young group of pass catchers featuring Burden, Rome Odunze, and tight end Colston Loveland. Now, through the first practices of camp, Burden's involvement has stood out, and a big second season could be on the way for RotoBaller's WR21.
Jul 31 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenRome Odunze Says his Foot Feels Great
Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (foot) made comments back in June about his injured foot being the "new normal," which led many to believe he'd never be the WR the team envisioned he'd be when they took him ninth overall in 2024 from the University of Washington. The 24-year-old third-year wideout clarified his "new normal" comments from earlier in the offseason by saying on Thursday that "wasn't really what he meant." What he meant was that he was injured last year, suffering a stress fracture in his foot that limited him in the second half. Odunze had 20 catches for 296 yards and five touchdowns through the first four weeks before catching 24 passes for 365 yards and one TD in the final eight regular-season games. He said his "foot feels great" and "amazing" now and that his foot issue from a year ago isn't a "chronic" injury. Fantasy managers shouldn't be avoiding Odunze in upcoming drafts, especially with DJ Moore now in Buffalo. All the offseason hype has been on second-year wideout Luther Burden III, potentially making Odunze an excellent value pick with WR2 upside in 2026.
Jul 30 · Source via Chicago Bears Rome OdunzeKalif Raymond Getting Plenty of Early Camp Looks
Chicago Bears wide receiver Kalif Raymond has been getting the ball often early in training camp. Brad Biggs noted that Raymond has been heavily involved and that it is already easy to see head coach Ben Johnson has plans for him as the team's third receiver. That should not come as much of a surprise. Raymond spent four seasons with Johnson in Detroit, and Johnson said in June that the veteran is more than a gadget player and could have a major role in the offense. Raymond caught 24 passes for 289 yards and one touchdown in 15 games for the Lions last season, but Chicago appears interested in using him more creatively. Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III are still the top two options in the receiver room, which limits Raymond's path to dependable weekly volume. Even so, his early camp usage is worth following. He is more of a deep-league watch-list player than a standard redraft pick right now.
Jul 30 · Source via Chicago Bears Kalif RaymondLuther Burden III Peppered with Targets During Day 1 of Training Camp
On a per-route basis, Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III was one of the league's most efficient players as a rookie in 2025, and reports from Day 1 of training camp indicate he's picked up right where he left off, though now seeing heavy volume. Burden was moved across the formation and reportedly looked crisp in his route running while drawing target after target. In trading away veteran DJ Moore, the Bears created a vacuum most likely to be filled by Burden and third-year receiver Rome Odunze, and although a single, non-padded practice in July will not define Chicago's pass-catching hierarchy for the 2026 season, Burden looks to have earned an early edge. The competition for first-read looks from quarterback Caleb Williams will be one to monitor throughout the summer, but Burden is currently RotoBaller's WR21, a full 12 positional spots ahead of Odunze.
Jul 30 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenRome Odunze Looking Healthy and Explosive
While much has been made of the bone calluses that structurally altered the left foot of Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze, early reports have been positive, with the third-year receiver looking healthy and explosive during individual drills of the team's first practice of training camp. Odunze elected to bypass surgery for the stress fracture and plantar fasciitis that caused him to miss five games in 2025, and he drew offseason headlines when describing the "new normal" of the naturally healed foot. On Day 1 of training camp, he was able to run and cut without restriction, and quarterback Caleb Williams commented after practice that "Rome looks like Rome." Unfortunately, that unencumbered movement did not translate to production under game-like conditions, as he was held without a catch in team drills, but seemingly at full health, Odunze will have plenty of opportunities to make plays throughout the summer, and he is RotoBaller's WR33.
Jul 30 · Source via Chicago Bears Rome OdunzeMontez Sweat Activated From Non-Football Illness List
The Chicago Bears announced on Wednesday that they activated defensive lineman Montez Sweat (illness) from the Non-Football Illness list. It didn't take long for Sweat to join the rest of his teammates at training camp practice this week, and he should be all systems go for the start of the 2026 regular season in early September. The 29-year-old former 26th overall selection by Washington in 2019 from Mississippi State had just 5.5 sacks in 16 starts in his first season with Chicago in 2024, but he came on strong last year with 10 sacks, 53 tackles (36 solo), 13 tackles for loss, 18 QB hits, five pass breakups, three forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery in 17 regular-season starts to finish the year as the No. 11 defensive lineman in IDP fantasy leagues. Sweat should remain a workhorse off the edge in Chicago's defense in 2026 in his third year with the team, giving him a high ceiling for fantasy managers in IDP formats once all the elite edge-rushing names come off the board.
Jul 30 · Source via Chicago Bears Montez SweatCaleb Williams Drops 10-15 Pounds to Increase his Mobility
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams said he dropped 10-15 pounds in the offseason and expects to move around better in 2026, according to Brad Biggs of The Chicago Tribune. Williams is listed at 226 pounds, which is the same figure the Bears used last year after listing him at 215 pounds as a rookie in 2024. The 24-year-old former first overall pick from USC took a step forward in Year 2 in his first year with new head coach Ben Johnson, with 3,942 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and seven interceptions in 17 regular-season starts. Williams made a lot of wild plays outside of the pocket deep down the field, and he had a penchant for leading the Bears to insane fourth-quarter comebacks. Johnson is now hoping to get Williams to operate more within the framework of his offense in his third year in the league. Even though receiver DJ Moore is no longer in town, Williams has the skill players around him to take another leap given his arm strength and dual-threat abilities. Fantasy managers should be targeting him as a midrange QB1 this year with a high ceiling as he continues to evolve in a strong Chicago offense.
Jul 29 · Source via Chicago Bears Caleb WilliamsMontez Sweat Placed on Non-Football Illness List
Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat (illness) was placed on the Active/Non-Football Illness list on Tuesday. It does not appear that Sweat is battling a major illness, but he is expected to be away from the team for a few days. Across 17 games in 2025, the 29-year-old recorded 36 solo tackles, 13 TFLs, 10 sacks, and three forced fumbles. He's been highly durable in his NFL career, missing just one game over the past four seasons. Still, Sweat is a key piece of the Bears' defense against both the pass and the run, so it would make sense for the team to be extra cautious with him at this point in the summer. It seems unlikely that Sweat is in danger of missing any time, but fantasy managers should still monitor his status until he is fully cleared for training camp action.
Jul 28 · Source via Chicago Bears Montez SweatCaleb Williams Says Bears Offense Will Be "More Entertaining" in 2026
The Chicago Bears offense is projected to be one of the more fantasy-friendly units in 2026, and on a recent appearance on the Up & Adams Show with Kay Adams, quarterback Caleb Williams did little to temper expectations, saying, "It's going to be more entertaining than last year, hopefully not as much of a heart race, but it's going to be a little more entertaining throughout the whole game and what we're going to bring to the table as a team." Already responsible for some of the wildest highlights of the 2025 season, that is a high bar to clear, and how that entertainment factor could translate for fantasy has drafters understandably excited about the Bears offense as a whole. Williams is RotoBaller's QB7, and after a trade sent veteran receiver DJ Moore to Buffalo, targets are expected to be funneled through Rome Odunze and second-year players Luther Burder III and Colston Loveland, none of whom fall outside RotoBaller's top 75 players for 2026. Meanwhile, running backs D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai both have the potential to outperform ADP expectations in year two under Ben Johnson.
Jul 28 · Source via Chicago Bears Caleb WilliamsCole Kmet Seeing His Value Decline in All Formats
Chicago Bears 27-year-old tight end Cole Kmet saw a significant decrease in production last season as the Bears drafted Colston Loveland 10th overall in the 2025 NFL draft last season. Kmet finished as the TE7 in 2022 and 2023, with his fantasy production driven by volume and touchdowns: he scored 7 touchdowns in 2022 and 6 in 2023. During the 2025 season, Kmet only saw 48 targets and hauled in 30 of them for 347 yards and two touchdowns. While the Bears have an elite offense, the passing attack is projected to run through second-year wideout Luther Burden III and third-year receiver Rome Odunze to go along with Loveland, who broke out in a massive way in the second half of last season. Kmet's value hinges mostly on Loveland's health, and Kmet finds himself entering the 2026 season as a strong drop candidate in dynasty formats and going undrafted in a lot of fantasy leagues.
Jul 27 · Source via Chicago Bears Cole KmetLuther Burden III Receiving Praise From his Quarterback
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams praised second-year wide receiver Luther Burden III on the Up & Adams Show on Monday, saying that "he makes the first guy miss every time." Williams also said that Burden "catches everything" and is a "friendly receiver." The 22-year-old former second-rounder (39th overall) last year out of the University of Missouri started slow in his rookie campaign but became more involved in head coach Ben Johnson's offense down the stretch, ultimately finishing with 47 receptions on 60 targets for 652 yards and two touchdowns in 15 regular-season games (five starts). Burden is one of the most popular Year 2 breakout receivers in fantasy football going into the 2026 season, especially since DJ Moore was traded to the Buffalo Bills in the offseason. Johnson has also been praising Burden for his offseason work, saying that he's "buying Burden stock right now" and that he's been "really happy with him." Burden will cost a pretty penny in fantasy drafts because of all the second-year hype, but he might be worth every penny in an ascending Bears offense. RotoBaller has Burden ranked as the No. 21 overall fantasy WR for 2026.
Jul 27 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenLuther Burden III Has WR2 Breakout Appeal
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III did not need long to show what could happen once the offense gave him more room. After a quiet start to his rookie season, Burden averaged 4.3 catches and 60.1 receiving yards over his final eight games. He finished with 47 receptions for 652 yards and two touchdowns on 60 targets, including an eight-catch, 138-yard performance late in the year. The efficiency was harder to ignore. Burden averaged 2.7 yards per route run, third among NFL receivers, and ranked fourth at the position with 7.4 yards after the catch per reception. DJ Moore is gone, and Chicago now views Burden and Rome Odunze as trusted targets for Caleb Williams. Colston Loveland remains a major part of the passing game, but Burden's role should grow after Ben Johnson praised his offseason, explosiveness, and expanding route tree. RotoBaller ranks him WR21 in PPR leagues. The second-year receiver already showed he can make a lot happen on limited volume. More routes and targets give him a legitimate chance to break out as a weekly WR2.
Jul 26 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther BurdenKalif Raymond Has a Role, But Limited Redraft Appeal
Chicago Bears wide receiver Kalif Raymond is going to play. The harder part is figuring out how often that matters for fantasy. Chicago brought him in on a one-year deal, and Ben Johnson knows exactly what Raymond can do after four years together in Detroit. Johnson said the veteran will be a "huge part" of the Bears' plans. Raymond still caught only 24 passes for 289 yards and one touchdown across 15 games last season. His biggest impact came on special teams, where he returned a punt 65 yards for a score. The Bears can manufacture touches for him, send him vertically, and use him in several spots. Steady targets are tougher to find. Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III headline the receiver room, Colston Loveland is coming off a 713-yard season, and third-round rookie Zavion Thomas adds another speed element. Raymond also turns 32 in August. RotoBaller ranks him WR101, leaving him in the watch-list range for deeper leagues. He can help Chicago without becoming someone fantasy managers need to draft.
Jul 25 · Source via Chicago Bears Kalif RaymondZavion Thomas Could Emerge as Valuable Gadget Player in Chicago
Chicago Bears rookie third-round wide receiver Zavion Thomas could emerge as "a valuable gadget player on offense" in Chicago in his first year in the NFL while also contributing his 4.28-second 40-yard-dash speed as a returner on special teams, according to Courtney Cronin of ESPN. Cronin questions whether head coach Ben Johnson has his next Jahmyr Gibbs, especially after the versatile speedster made plays during the offseason program and was labeled "electric" by teammates as he enters his first year in the league. The 21-year-old out of LSU obviously has big-play abilities because of his high-end speed, but in terms of playing time in his rookie season, that's going to be hard to come by with Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III and Kalif Raymond, and tight end Colston Loveland ahead of him on the depth chart. But if Thomas impresses as a gadget player early on, Johnson will surely manufacture more touches for him. For now, Thomas is merely a deep dynasty/keeper stash who will see most of his playing time on special teams.
Jul 23 · Source via Chicago Bears Zavion ThomasColston Loveland has Top-50 Potential
Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland is looking to build off a strong rookie campaign. The 22-year-old registered 58 receptions, 713 receiving yards, and six touchdowns in 16 games with the Bears last season. Like many rookies, Loveland was eased into the mix, but it didn't take him long to surpass Cole Kmet on the depth chart. He's now expected to take on a larger workload with D.J. Moore out of the picture and a full season with Caleb Williams already under his belt. Loveland finished as the TE12 and outside the top-100 last season, but the sky is the limit for him. Brock Bowers and Trey McBride are likely going to be selected ahead of him, but Loveland as the TE3 isn't crazy. The departure of Moore should free up more chances for him in 2026. A finish inside the top-50 seems possible if everything goes right for Loveland next season.
Jul 21 · Source via Chicago Bears Colston LovelandD'Andre Swift a Vital Part of Bears Offense, Capable of More
Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift had career highs in rushing yards (1,087) and rushing touchdowns (nine) on 223 carries in 2025 while also catching 34 passes for 299 receiving yards and one touchdown. Swift and Kyle Monangai combined to become one of the league's top rushing tandems last season. They were the only pair of RBs to each rush for 750-plus yards, which helped the Bears finish with the third-best rushing attack in the league in head coach Ben Johnson's first year in Chicago. Johnson described Swift and Monangai as "a pretty formidable unit." "He's a dynamic player," Johnson said about Swift. "I've known that about him since he came into the league, firsthand up there in Detroit, and certainly last year I wasn't surprised about the year he had. So, is he capable of more? Absolutely. He absolutely is. He's a vital part of what we do here." Monangai's presence in the Bears' backfield definitely will keep Swift from being a surefire RB1 in fantasy, but Swift proved in 2025 that he can still be productive as a strong RB2 while sharing touches in Johnson's offense. At the very worst, fantasy managers in redraft leagues should target Swift as a high-end RB3/flex.
Jul 20 · Source via Chicago Bears D'Andre SwiftKyle Monangai's Dynasty Stock Surging Ahead of 2026
A seventh-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai recorded 947 scrimmage yards and five touchdowns on 187 touches across 17 games as a rookie. Monangai entered the season firmly behind veteran Bears back D'Andre Swift on the depth chart, but Monangai worked his way into a more even playing time split by the end of the season. From Week 12 through the end of the regular season, neither Bears running back played more than 59% or fewer than 41% of the team's offensive snaps. In 2026, both backs will likely play significant roles in what should be a very strong Bears running game. However, Swift will be a free agent at season's end and may not be in Chicago's long-term plans. Given his production as a rookie and his pathway to RB1 duties in Chicago, Monangai profiles as a clear dynasty buy ahead of 2026.
Jul 20 · Source via Chicago Bears Kyle MonangaiRome Odunze Will Soon Get the Opportunity to Test His Structurally Altered Foot
Injuries derailed what looked to be a promising sophomore season for Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze, but when Bears veterans gather for training camp on July 28, he'll be presented with the season's first opportunity to test his bothersome left foot in a padded practice setting. Odunze suffered a stress fracture in the foot that kept him out of the final five games of the regular season, but he elected not to have offseason surgery, opting instead for what he has called the "new normal" of a calloused and slightly shifted foot structure. Through the first four weeks of the 2025 season, Odunze was the fantasy WR3 before the foot first became an issue, but with him slowed later in the year, rookies Luther Burden III and Colston Loveland stepped into prominent roles that leave Chicago's target pecking order somewhat unsettled heading into 2026. RotoBaller ranks Odunze as the WR33, a full 12 positional spots behind Burden, but it should surprise nobody if he's able to pick up where he started last season and command the top pass-catching spot in what projects to be an ascending Chicago offense.
Jul 20 · Source via Chicago Bears Rome OdunzeImproved Consistency in 2026 Could Make Caleb Williams a Fantasy League-Winner
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams finished as the fantasy QB5 in 2025 while leaving a lot of meat on the bone. His 58.1% completion rate ranked 32nd out of 33 qualifying quarterbacks, finishing ahead of only J.J. McCarthy, but much of his accuracy struggles can be explained by the same propensity for hunting big plays that is responsible for his heightened ceiling. Twice in 2025, Williams finished a week as the overall QB1, and he landed in the top 10 in more than half his starts, but a more balanced approach in his second season with Ben Johnson should lead to more consistency and a spot among the most reliable fantasy contributors at the position. Even in saying goodbye to DJ Moore, the team's leading wide receiver in each of the past three seasons, Chicago still boasts one of the most dynamic trios of pass catchers in the league in receivers Luther Burden III and Rome Odunze and tight end Colston Loveland. With all the pieces around him to take yet another step forward, Williams is RotoBaller's QB7, but he is one of a handful of players who could ultimately threaten to finish 2026 as the overall QB1.
Jul 18 · Source via Chicago Bears Caleb WilliamsCole Kmet is Quickly Losing Dynasty Value
Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet saw a significant drop in production this past season. Before this past season, Kmet had registered 45-plus receptions and more than 400 receiving yards in each of the last five seasons. In 2025, Kmet finished with 30 receptions for 347 yards and scored two touchdowns in 16 games. The biggest reason for his regression was the emergence of Colston Loveland. The 22-year-old quickly proved to be a top-tier tight end and jumped Kmet on the depth chart. Kmet should remain in the picture going forward, but it'll likely be more years like his 2025 campaign. He's worth holding in dynasty leagues as insurance in case Loveland goes down at some point.
Jul 14 · Source via Chicago Bears Cole KmetLuther Burden III has Clear Breakout Potential in Year 2
Chicago Bears second-year wide receiver Luther Burden III is one of the most clear breakout candidates at his position in 2026, according to Dan Wiederer of The Athletic. "I'm buying Luther Burden stock right now," head coach Ben Johnson said back in May. Johnson called Burden's growth this offseason "electric." The 22-year-old former second-rounder (39th overall) out of the University of Missouri took off in the second half as a rookie, posting 40 catches, 547 yards and a touchdown in his final 10 games, including the postseason. Burden is carrying increased confidence, heightened trust from Johnson, and improved chemistry with quarterback Caleb Williams. "He's the truth, man. And nothing but the truth," tight end Colston Loveland said. Burden had a total line of 47 catches, 652 yards and two touchdowns in 15 regular-season games (five starts) as a rookie, but with DJ Moore now in Buffalo, Burden could easily become Chicago's WR1 over Rome Odunze in 2026. Fantasy managers should be looking to draft Burden as a strong WR2 this year with upside for more in a Bears offense that's looking to take the next step in Johnson's second season running the show.
Jul 14 · Source via Chicago Bears Luther Burden