Bears Preseason Finale: Slow Start, Comeback Win, and Roster Decisions Loom

On August 23, 2025, the Chicago Bears wrapped up their preseason with a mixed performance in their final exhibition game. Head coach Ben Johnson gave the first-team offense the entire first half, allowing quarterback Caleb Williams to practice an end-of-half drive and finish the preseason on a high note with a touchdown pass to wide receiver Rome Odunze.

While Johnson was pleased with how quarterback Tyson Bagent and wide receiver Jahdae Walker ended the game, calling their performance "remarkable," he was frustrated with the team's slow start. "It was a little bit disappointing to see how slow we started," Johnson told reporters. "Defensively, we didn't feel like we controlled the line of scrimmage very well. ... Offensively, first two possessions was really sloppy football that has plagued us in and out of camp so far."

The decision to give the starters extended playing time meant fewer reps for players on the roster bubble, which is the balance the Bears must strike in the preseason. Over the next few days, GM Ryan Poles and Johnson will determine the initial 53-man roster, with 37 players set to be released or moved to a reserve list.

The Bears' depth has improved, which could lead to some tough decisions, including the potential release of Day 3 draft picks from previous years. Injuries at running back could also factor into the final roster decisions, which must be made by the Tuesday afternoon deadline.