Chicago Bears DVOA, Stats, & NFL Rankings

Chicago Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams didn't quite meet expectations in his debut despite earning a win on Sunday. Williams completed 14 of 29 passes for 93 yards, failed to throw a touchdown, was sacked twice, but did not record any interceptions. He fumbled once, though the Bears recovered it. His accuracy was lacking, with 31% of his passes off-target and an average of just 3.2 yards per attempt. His deep throws were particularly problematic, missing several open opportunities downfield. While Williams made a notable throw to Keenan Allen that should have resulted in a touchdown, the veteran wide receiver dropped the pass. The Bears' offense only managed nine points, relying on defensive and special teams touchdowns for most of their scoring. Williams delivered a well-executed 2-point conversion pass to D'Andre Swift, his standout moment in what otherwise seemed like a promising matchup. He will need to perform better in next week's Sunday Night Football game against C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans to showcase the potential that made him the number 1 pick.

Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson and wide receiver Tyler Scott are both healthy scratches for Week 1 against the Tennessee Titans. This news offers some insight into the Bears' offensive pecking order this year, with Johnson's absence being particularly interesting. He was a fourth-round pick in 2023 and made a solid impression as a rookie last year, but the Bears will opt for Travis Homer as their third-string running back behind starter D'Andre Swift and backup Khalil Herbert. Scott's absence is less of a surprise but still noteworthy considering he played 17 games in 2023 and is coming off a solid preseason. Regardless of Scott's availability, DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze are locked in as the Bears' top three receivers.

Chicago Bears kicker Cairo Santos is a strong fantasy starter for Week 1 against the Tennessee Titans. Last season, the Titans allowed the most fantasy points to kickers, making Santos a promising option. The Bears value Santos, as evidenced by their four-year, $16 million contract extension with him last December, including $9.5 million guaranteed. Santos had an impressive season in 2023, attempting 2.2 field goals per game and converting 92.1% of his attempts. With the Bears favored in their Week 1 matchup and an implied point total of 24.75the sixth highestSantos is in a favorable position. The weather forecast is in the mid-70s and clear, making him a solid choice if you've drafted him.

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet is not a recommended starter this week due to the tough matchup against a strong Titans secondary and a decreased target share. The Titans allowed the third-fewest fantasy points and receiving yards to tight ends last year, as well as the second-fewest touchdowns. With the addition of Keenan Allen, Rome Odunze, and Gerald Everettwho is expected to see more snaps than anticipatedKmet's role in the offense will likely diminish. While Kmet still has the potential to capitalize on his opportunities, the presence of other top fantasy tight ends in less crowded offenses makes him a riskier choice. Kmet could be a valuable asset and a key player for the Bears, but his value as a fantasy starter is uncertain, given the current dynamics.

Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze will make his NFL debut this Sunday against a significantly upgraded Tennessee Titans secondary. With the Titans adding L'Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie to their cornerback lineup, they aim to transform a weakness from last season into a strength. While the allure of starting Odunze in Week 1 might be tempting, it's wiser to keep him on the bench for now. Rookies, especially receivers, often take time to develop their fantasy value, and Odunze will be starting behind established stars Keenan Allen and D.J. Moore. Although he has the potential to be a standout asset later in the season, his current role makes him a high-risk, boom-or-bust flex option. The Bears' offense should be capable of supporting two key pass catchers, but it remains to be seen who will emerge alongside Moore. While Odunze could make a few notable plays this Sunday, his role and target share are still uncertain, making him a risky play for now.