Rome Odunze at Soldier Field on August 17, 2025 in Chicago. Kevin Sabitus / Getty ImagesFOR SUBSCRIBERSChicago Bears: 2026 NFL Kickoff GuideWelcome to the NFL Kickoff Guide powered by NBC Sports. Our expert researchers created a guide to the most important stats and storylines for all 32 teams this upcoming season.Aug. 26, 2026, 5:00 AM EDTBy NBC SportsThe Bears had a knack for big plays in big moments last season — just look at their seven fourth-quarter comebacks and a league-leading number of takeaways. The question entering 2026 is whether that formula, which delivered the franchise its first playoff berth since 2020, is sustainable under second-year coach Ben Johnson. The season kicks off on Wednesday, September 9, with the New England Patriots facing the Seattle Seahawks in a Super Bowl LX rematch. Live coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. And visit NBC Sports for full NFL coverage.Just a moment.We are getting your experience ready.