The Chicago Bears will be featured on HBO’s “Hard Knocks” for training camp heading into the 2024 NFL season.
While the reality TV program has seen its popularity on the downtick some in recent years, Chicago’s presence could change the dynamics big time.
We’re sure Bears head coach Matt Eberflus and general manager Ryan Poles would prefer not to be featured. This is going to make it all that much more entertaining for the masses. Here, we look at 10 reasons why you should watch the Chicago Bears on “Hard Knocks” this summer.
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Rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze
Chicago couldn’t have asked for more in the 2024 NFL Draft. After landing quarterback Caleb Williams at one, the team found a potentially elite pass-catcher with the ninth selection. Odunze showed up big time during his college career at Washington. He’s also been on full display during organized team activities (OTAs) this spring.
Chicago Bears offensive line
If the Bears want to have success this season, they’ll need to get more production out of the offensive line. That’s as clear as day with a rookie quarterback. Given Chicago’s improved defensive line and pass rush, we’re intrigued to see how this unit performs at training camp. It starts with the left side of tackle Braxton Jones and guard Teven Jenkins.
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The new additions
The acquisition of six-time Pro Bowler Keenan Allen from the Los Angeles Chargers will loom large this coming season. Since the start of the 2017 season, Allen is averaging 98 receptions for 1,130 yards. We want to see how he acclimates to a new city with a rookie quarterback tossing him the rock.
Training camp battles
The Chicago Bears are well equipped at pretty much every position heading into training camp and “Hard Knocks.” Will Jack Sanborn compete with T.J. Edwards at the weak-side linebacker spot? What about center where veteran aquisition Ryan Bates will be going up against Coleman Shelton?
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That one shining rookie
Punters are people, too. With Chicago boasting only five picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, Tory Taylor out of Iowa might be someone to watch. After all, the dude murders footballs on a continual basis. Don’t trust us?
Because summer television stinks
Really, television during the summer stinks. Reality television shows are dumbing down America. Sure, “Hard Knocks” might qualify. But it’s of a better quality. As an aside, this will get the football fan in us pumped for the 2024 season.
Chicago Bears running back situation
Chicago signed D’Andre Swift away from the Philadelphia Eagles in NFL free agency. It has Khalil Herbert returning for another season. Will this be a legitimate training camp battle? It seems so. That competitive nature will be something to watch.
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Joint practices with the Cincinnati Bengals
We saw Bengals joint practices with the Los Angeles Rams get chippy a couple years back. It’s been a continual theme during summer sessions. Don’t expect anything different this time around. Wouldn’t it be a blast of some fight broke out in front of the cameras? Our money is on Ja’Marr Chase and Jaylon Johnson.
Matt Eberflus on the hot seat
Yes, Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus is on the hot seat heading into the 2024 season. He’s posted a 10-24 record across two years in Chicago. Given what the team has invested in this offseason, it’s do-or-die for Eberflus. Will the attention get to him on “Hard Knocks?” It’s a real question.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams
Williams will obviously be the top attraction during “Hard Knocks.” The No. 1 overall pick and former Heisman winner at USC is already the starting quarterback. He was seen as a generational talent leading up to the event. Williams will be flinging the ball to a trio of elite targets, including Pro Bowlers Keenan Allen and D.J. Moore. It will be a popcorn-worthy time.
