The Charter: A Chicago Bears Podcast

After losing to the Colts on Sunday, the Bears have a short week to get ready for Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday night. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis are joined by former Bear and current Football Aftershow commentator Lance Briggs as they discuss the Bears loss on Sunday, how they have to prepare for Tom Brady, and Lance's new graphic novel THE TRAP. Later on, JJ and Cam break down the Bucs and discuss how the Bear cans generate the offense needed to keep up with Brady and Co. (1:27) - Impressions of the 3-1 Bears (6:45) - Bears vs Tom Brady (14:05) - Starting a graphic novel after being a pro athlete (19:50) - Bears are only a 5-point underdog vs the Bucs? (27:50) - Should Bears rookie Cole Kmet be used more in the passing game by now? (36:50) - Can the Bears get to 30 points vs the Bucs? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a 3-0 start, the Bears suffered their first loss of the season on Sunday. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis discuss the poor offensive output in Nick Foles' first start, wonder whether Matt Nagy is to blame for the lack of scoring, and debate whether should fans be worried that a QB change didn't fix the problems. (1:22) - Did the Colts loss change anything you thought about the Bears? (7:55) - This game felt like 2019 all over again (13:42) - Is rookie Darnell Mooney on his way to taking Anthony Miller’s role? (20:54) - Nick Foles needs to be better than he was vs the Colts (27:36) - If it's going to take time for Foles to get acclimated, why didn't he start the season? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With Nick Foles’ first start as a Bear looming, JJ Stankevitz is joined by NBC Sports NFL analyst Chris Simms as they break down why Matt Nagy ultimately chose Foles over Trubisky. Later in the podcast, JJ and Cam Ellis are joined by a very special guest to breakdown the matchup between the Colts and the Bears. It's not Andrew Luck...or is it? (1:30) - How does the rest of the Bears receive the message of the coach switching quarterbacks (4:35) - What can Nagy and Foles do with a week to prepare? (7:50) - Nick Foles can improve the wide receiver play (11:20) - What does Mitch Trubisky have to do going forward? (13:49) - Special guest interview. Maybe it's Andrew Luck (Probably not) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Nick Foles era has begun and according to Matt Nagy, Foles will remain the starter until further notice. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis discuss the new Bears starting QB, and answer listener questions in our weekly mailbag segment. Later on, former Bears coach Dave Wannstedt joins the podcast to discuss why Matt Nagy made the switch at QB, whether fans should be worried about the Bears defense, and will the Bears continue to win against good teams? (1:30) - Will the Bears ever find a kicker? (9:30) - Concerns about the Bears defense (20:14) - Will national opinions about the Bears change now that Trubisky isn't the starter? (28:48) - Who will take the Tarik Cohen snaps (35:16) - Dave Wannstedt interview/ What message did Nagy send to his team? (44:40) - Quarterbacks in NFL history who have had their 4th year options declined See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Falcons HAHAHAHAHA! The Bears staged another comeback win on Sunday, beating Atlanta 30-26 after benching Mitch Trubisky for Nick Foles. Is this the last we've seen of Mitch Trubisky? Has the Nick Foles era begun? Has the Falcons..HAHAHAHAHA! (1:20) - Atlanta Falcons have another breakdown at the end of the game (11:20) - Jimmy Graham on the difference between having Foles in as QB (20:08) - This Bears team believes they can make a playoff run (26:54) - What does the future look like for Mitch Trubisky and Ryan Pace? (36:05) - Who wins Week 3 game balls? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears are looking to go 3-0 as they head to Atlanta to take on the Falcons. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis preview the week 3 matchup discussing if the Bears defense will hold up the Falcons' high powered offense and can Mitch Trubisky build on his first 2 performances this season. Later on in the podcast, JJ is joined by legendary sports writer Fred Mitchell to discuss and remember the career and legacy of the late great Gale Sayers who passed away on September 23rd. (1:13) - David Montgomery and Cordarrelle Patterson speak on the murder of Breonna Taylor (8:57) - The Bears are underdogs for the first time this year (14:30) -Will the Bears defense be able to stop the Falcons? (23:47) - Fred Mitchell joins the podcast (34:20) - Gale Sayers comes back from a devastating injury (40:45) - Brian's Song and Gale Sayer's friend Brian Piccolo See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears are 2-0 and are tied atop the NFC North, but something still feels off. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis are joined by former Bear and Football Aftershow analyst Alex Brown as they discuss the 2-0 Bears, and what they need to fix before heading to Atlanta on Sunday. Later on in the pod, JJ and Cam answer your questions in our weekly mailbag segment. (1:40) - Feelings about the 2-0 Bears start (10:10) - Is Mitch Trubisky improving this year? (17:40) - Can the Bears win games without scoring more than 20 points a game? (25:30) - Weekly mailbag segment (31:35) - Should the Bears have kept Nick Kwiatkoski over Danny Trevathan? (40:15) - Which kicker should be the Bears' guy going forward: Santos or Eddy Piñeiro? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In another close call, the Bears pull out a 17-13 win over the New York Giants at Soldier Field and improve to 2-0 on the season. JJ Stankevitz, Cam Ellis, and David Kaplan discuss the win and how ugly the wins were. The crew dissects Mitch Trubisky's play, the defense allowing a comeback at the end of the game, and they hand out game balls to the Bears players who most impacted the game. (1:10) - The Bears are 2-0 but it doesn't feel like 2-0 (5:00) - Akiem Hicks and Matt Nagy discuss the Bears being 2-0 (12:50) - Should there be more concern for the offense or the defense? (19:34) - Did Mitch build off of Week 1? (30:00) - Can rookie Darnell Mooney take over the second receiver role and surpass Anthony Miller? (34:25) - Bears kickers aren't doing so great See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears are looking to go 2-0 this Sunday as the New York Giants come to town. So how can they build off of their Week 1 comeback win vs the Lions? JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis are joined by NBC Sports lead NFL analyst Chris Simms as they preview Sunday's matchup. Can Mitch Trubisky be better in Week 2? Will the defense come into form? Can the Bears continue to run the ball effectively? The three of them discuss all that, and more. (1:31) - Allen Robinson contract update (7:22) - The Bears are the favorites heading into Week 2 (14:10) - Chris Simms joins the podcast (16:30) - Mitch Trubisky's play in the Lions game (21:40) - Can the Bears continue to have inconsistent production from the tight ends? (26:30) - Can the Bears' defense stop Saquon Barkley? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bears star wide receiver Allen Robinson isn't happy with how contract negotiations are going, and he made his frustrations known by taking to social media and deleting everything that affiliates him with the Bears. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis discuss the craziness of Tuesday and get to the bottom of why the Bears haven't given Robinson a new contract. Later on in the podcast, JJ's joined by former Bears coach Dave Wannstedt to dissect why the Bears were so successful on offense in the 4th quarter. (1:30) - Rumors that Allen Robinson asked for a trade (9:20) - Trying to understand why the Bears haven't given Robinson a new contract (24:00) - Allen Robinson made his frustrations known on social media (33:00) - Ryan Pace should be under review (37:21) - Dace Wannstedt joins the pod (41:40) - Wannstedt explains why Lions head coach Matt Patricia went back to man coverage in the 4th quarter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears had an awful first half but managed to get the Week 1 win against the Lions thanks to some late game heroics. JJ Stankevitz, Cam Ellis and David Kaplan discuss the play of Mitch Trubisky, the defense, and everything that led to the surprising comeback victory. (1:30) - First impressions of the unlikely comeback win (8:40) - Bears lost these type of games last year (15:00) - Bears were patient in the run game (23:42) - Why did Lions head coach Matt Patricia go to man coverage when Trubisky plays worse against the zone (29:00) - Anthony Miller catches the game-winning touchdown See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Football is finally here! Actual, real football has come and we have you covered. JJ Stankevitz is joined by NBC football analyst Tony Dungy to discuss the Bears, their in-season QB competition, and how head coach Matt Nagy can return the Bears to a playoff contending team. Later on in the pod, JJ and Cam are joined by Mike Rothstein of ESPN to discuss his prediction that the Lions will win the NFC North and preview Sunday's matchup. (1:35) - What can Matt Nagy do differently in 2020 to get the most out of his players? (6:30) - Dealing with a QB competition in-season (8:34) - Can the Bears defense dominate again? (11:46) -Mike Rothstein joins the podcast (23:20) - Lions locker room is better than it's been in the past (29:25) - The Lions offense is better than last year 39:12) - Is it surprising that the Lions are favored vs the Bears? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The NFL season is almost underway, and there are still so many questions about the Bears left to be answered. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis field requests from listeners on a wide variety of topics, ranging from tight end concerns, to QB predictions, to figuring out why Staley da Bear doesn't wear pants. (2:40) - Over/Under 30 touchdowns for Mitch Trubisky (9:14) - Why doesn't Staley Da Bear wear pants (14:40) - Do the Bears have enough depth at linebacker? (22:25) - Will Cordarrelle Patterson get the ball more this year? (25:40) - Should fans be worried that Allen Robinson doesn't have a new contract (31:24) - Is the hype around the tight ends real? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Friday night, it was leaked that Matt Nagy had named Mitch Trubisky the week 1 starter for the Bears and on Sunday he confirmed the leak. In a position battle everyone had their eyes on, Trubisky showed the coaches that he was best to start the season so far. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis discuss the position battle and everything that led to the decision. Also, later in the podcast, a very special interview presented by the newest website in sports betting technology PointsBet, NFL legend Devin Hester joins the podcast to discuss his hall of fame candidacy and being the face of Chicago sports betting. (2:40) - Why did the Bears select Trubisky over Foles? (7:42) - Matt Nagy and Mitchell Trubisky speak on the decision (15:10) - Nick Foles' reaction to the decision that he will start the season off the bench (20:00) - Who will be the kicker for the Bears? (26:40) - Devin Hester joins the podcast (30:15) - Devin Hester believes he will be in the Hall of Fame just a matter of when See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Wednesday, Bears head coach Matt Nagy announced that the QB competition is officially over and a final decision will be made soon. J.J. Stankevitz and Cam Ellis discuss who they think the starter is and if he'll keep the job the entire season. Later on in the podcast, the guys go position-by-position and guess who they think will make the final 53-man roster. (1:20) - The competition is over and it's time to pick a QB (8:10) - The Bears need every player on the offense to be better – not just the QB (15:06) - With David Montgomery out for now, what does the running back room look like? (25:30) - Akiem Hicks injury concerns and the other defensive lineman (35:10) - Kyle Fuller, Jaylon Johnson and the cornerbacks See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over the weekend, Hall of Famer Brain Urlacher faced backlash for comments he made about the shooting of Jacob Blake on social media. The Bears quickly distanced themselves from Urlacher, with both current and former Bears players speaking out about the remarks. To start the podcast, JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis discuss those comments and the Bears' reaction to them. Later on, JJ and Cam dive into the ongoing position battles and debate what questions still need to be answered as training camp heads into its final week. (2:00) - Robert Quinn discusses social justice and football (8:00) - Brian Urlacher's social media comments (17:40) - Bears locker room is as close as ever this year (27:00) - If Allen Robinson is out who do the Bears have at wide receiver? (37:50) - Robert Quinn in training camp See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bears running back David Montgomery went down in practice with a groin injury that looks pretty significant. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis are joined by Bleacher Report’s lead NFL columnist Kalyn Kahler to discuss Montgomery’s injury and the impact it has on the Bears as they prepare for the season. Later on in the podcast, the crew discuss the QB and kicking competitions in camp, and predict where the Bears will end up in the NFC North standings. (1:30) - The Milwaukee Bucks make history by boycotting a playoff game (8:55) - Kalyn Kahler joins the podcast/David Montgomery's injury (15:00) - The Bears sign another kicker to compete with Eddie Piñeiro (26:00) - Biggest storyline that NFL fans aren't paying attention to (32:10) - Worst NFC North fanbase See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Sunday, it was reported that the Bears had 9 players and coaches test positive for coronavirus before learning that other teams were experiencing the same thing. Fortunately, these tests were false positives, but the fact remains that if this was the regular season, those players would be out for the week. Host JJ Stankevitz and Bears writer Cam Ellis discuss the scare, and what it means for the NFL and the start of the season. Later on, they provide updates on the position battles in camp, including who has had a leg up in the QB battle (1:45) - How did the Bears and the NFL handle the false positives scare (17:20) - The Bears tight ends look a lot better than last year (26:00) - Which QB has taken the lead in the position battle (33:20) - Will Jaylon Johnson be a starter this year? (41:55) - Another kicking competition is about to begin See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears started training camp and the position battles have begun. Host JJ Stankevitz is joined by Cam Ellis and Adam Hoge to discuss the first few days of Bears’ training camp and the key position battles, notably the starting QB contest between Nick Foles and Mitch Trubisky. (2:00) - QB competition, Nick Foles vs Mitch Trubisky (14:00) - Who will be the starting at right guard? (18:38) - Deon Bush has not locked down the safety position (25:40) - Will Jaylon Johnson be ready to start at corner? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As training camp is set to go this week it's time to take a look at why fans should be interested in the 2020 Bears. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis are joined by co-host of Good Morning Football and local Chicago area guy Kyle Brandt to discuss what fans should be interested and looking for from the 2020 Bears. The group also dives into Kyle's new podcast "10 Questions" and what Aaron Rodgers has said on his podcast about joining the Bears in the future, why Kyle Brandt is rooting for Mitch Trubisky, and Kyle's favorite Portillo's order. (2:33) - Aaron Rodgers real thoughts about Jordan Love and possibly playing for the Bears (8:12) - How many Super Bowls will Nick Foles win as a Bears quarterback? (16:20) - Kyle Brandt on having an NFL show but still being a Bears fan (21:00) - What pumps you up about the 2020 Bears? (30:00) - Best Portillo's order See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bears training camp is underway and head coach Matt Nagy has a lot to consider heading into it. NBCS Bears insider JJ Stankevitz is joined by Cam Ellis and Bears writer Bryan Perez as they discuss the upcoming Bear camp. They dive into the difficulties of running a camp with the added safety protocols, the QB competition between Foles and Trubisky, and a potential under the radar players that could explode this season. (1:50) - Bears training camp schedule is released (7:00) - The first month the season the play on the field is going to look bad (13:20) - Mitch Trubisky and Nick Foles throw to receivers (16:30) - Matt Nagy responds to Eddie Jackson wanting to play offense (24:40) - Under the radar players that could make an impact this year See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears rookies have a lot of pressure on them in their first year but can they produce at the level the team needs them to, to win? JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis discuss the Bears rookies, provide updates on Roquan Smith, and discuss the changes to the Under Center podcast, all in this episode. Sit back and indulge. (1:46) - Changes to the Under Center Podcast (5:00) - Chances that Jaylon Johnson may not start for the Bears (10:55) - Can Cole Kmet handle being a full time starter in his first year (17:00) - Roquan Smith updates (21:40) - How will Khalil Mack perform this year (30:20) - How do the coordinators and coaches think about the QB competition See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the Bears prepare for the 2020 season, it's time to start looking in depth into what the Bears could look like in 2020. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis are joined by one of the smartest minds in football media, Warren Sharp of Sharp Football Analysis, to discuss and predict what the Bears look like in 2020. The group discusses the QB competition, will the Bears defense improve or regress, and what should Matt Nagy do in terms of his scheme this year. (2:40) - Nick Foles should be the starter in 2020 (7:45) - Matt Nagy needs to be more predictable in play calling (15:30) - Have the Bears used and embraced analytics (22:10) - How easy is the Bears schedule and what will be their record at the end of the season (31:00) - Why you should watch the Bears in 2020 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bears quarterbacks Mitch Trubisky and Nick Foles are about to start a, according to Matt Nagy, "seasonal" long QB competition. The 2 QBs spoke to the media about the upcoming competition and how they are addressing it. JJ Stankevitz, Laurence Holmes, and Cam Ellis discuss the QB competition, who they think will come out on top, and why. (4:14) - Mitch Trubisky's involvement in social justice issues in Chicago (10:00) - No one in the media asked Mitch Trubisky about social justice issues (17:00) - Mitch Trubisky speaks on becoming a "Master of Coverages" (27:10) - Nick Foles speaks on getting comfortable in the Bears offense (32:54) - The many hats of the Bears. Why does Matt Nagy wear a visor? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Camp is getting ready to begin so Bears GM Ryan Pace and head coach Matt Nagy talked to the media on safety precautions being done to ensure the health of the players including 3rd string QB Tyler Bray. JJ Stankevitz, Laurence Holmes, and Cam Ellis discuss the comments made by Pace and Nagy. They also get into Bears defensive lineman Eddie Goldman opting out of the 2020 season, and how impactful that will be for the Bears defense. (2:26) - Ryan Pace and the Bears feel like they are creating their own "Bubble" (10:50) - Can the NFL pull off a season? (21:30) - Eddie Goldman opts out of the 2020 season (32:25) - Matt Nagy on how long will the QB competition go (42:20) - Tyler Bray must be protected at all costs See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bears head coach Matt Nagy and Eagles head coach Doug Pederson are friends, run very similar systems, worked under the same coach, and even have coached some of the same players, but why has Pederson been so much more successful than Nagy? NBCS Chicago Bears insider JJ Stankevitz is joined by NBCS Philly's Eagles insider Dave Zangaro to discuss the differences between the two teams. Dave also provides insight on new Bears quarterback Nick Foles. (2:16) - What kind of QB was Nick Foles in the Super Bowl run? (8:30) - How will Nick Foles perform in a QB competition? (18:40) - Differences in the Bears offense vs the Eagles offense (24:30) - What is the national view of the Bears and Matt Nagy (31:00) - Why did the Eagles want Jordan Howard? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The NFL and its players have yet to come to an agreement on safety protocols and training camp is scheduled to begin in a week. JJ Stankevitz, Laurence Holmes and Cam Ellis discuss the issues the NFL needs to fix before players report to camp, how will no preseason games impact the Bears QB competition, and how rosters being reduced to only 80 players could impact un-drafted free agents. (1:30) - How will no preseason games impact the Trubisky vs Foles battle? (9:05) - How will the NFL be ready to play if there are no preseason games? (15:00) - Safety concerns the NFL and players need to consider (22:55) - A lot of players will be cut with smaller rosters (31:00) - Will the NFL be able to finish the season? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The people who cover the Bears aren't just your local newspaper writers, there are people with great insight and perspectives that aren't in the locker room like traditional media. JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis are joined by Bleacher Nation's Luis Medina to discuss his thoughts on the 2020 Bears, his favorite Bear of all-time, and his perspective on his coverage of the Bears vs traditional media. (2:27) - Who should win the QB battle between Nick Foles and Mitch Trubisky (9:38) - Under discussed Bears issue that no one is bringing up (17:40) - Blogging about a team vs traditional media coverage (28:08) - Jay Cutler's chickens took social media by storm (34:46) - Favorite go to GIF reaction for the Bears See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

JJ Stankevitz, Laurence Holmes, and Cam Ellis discuss the Bears not talking to Allen Robinson about an extension and what that could mean for him and the Bears. Later on in the podcast, the crew discusses other deals that were made around the league and the stacked free agent running back class that Tarik Cohen finds himself in, and Laurence tells the story of finding a peacock and a chicken in his backyard. (1:55) - Will 2020 be the last year A-Rob will be in Chicago? (7:10) - With no preseason, which QB (Foles or Trubisky) will win the job? (13:00) - Will the NFL even have a season this year (20:00) - The 2021 running back free agent class isn't good for Tarik Cohen (30:00) - Laurence's encounter with a peacock and chicken See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

JJ Stankevitz is joined by draft expert Josh Norris of NBC Sports and Rotoworld, as they take a deep dive into the Bears' 2020 NFL draft class featuring Cole Kmet and Jaylon Johnson. They also dive into the Bears' offseason moves and can the newly acquired players from the draft and free agency make an instant impact for the 2020 season. (1:23) - Overall impression of what the Bears accomplished in the 2020 draft (5:00) - Cole Kmet vs Adam Shaheen (9:37) - Was Jaylon Johnson a 1st round talent (15:00) - Ryan Pace's 5th round selections (21:10) - Biggest issues with the Bears draft See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The largest contract in American sports history was given to Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs. The Bears dodged a major financial bullet there didn't they? Laurence Holmes is joined by Brad Spielberger of Over the Cap.com as they discuss the impact Mahomes' contract has on the NFL and on sports, Mitchell Trubisky's contract situation with the Bears, and is Allen Robinson's contract a good one. (1:58) - First reaction when the deal was announced (6:21) - How does Mahomes' contract impact Deshaun Watson and Dak Prescott (12:46) - Why the Bears didn't pick up Mitchell Trubisky's option (17:26) - Bears offseason spending in 2020 (19:38) - A conversation with Patrick Mahomes' agent, Leigh Steinberg See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

New play-by-play voice for the Chicago Bulls Adam Amin joins Laurence Holmes and JJ Stankevitz to discuss his dual roles going forward for the Bulls and football voice for the Bears. They dive into what will become of the 2020 Bears and Amin's love of the classic game, Tecmo Bowl. (1:30) - Calling Bears and Bulls games for Chicago (7:30) - For the love of Tecmo Bowl (13:28) - Fans are stuck on who the Bears will be in 2020 (19:05) - What can Mitch Trubisky be in 2020 (27:40) - Announcing football and basketball (36:10) - Announcing with no fans involved in games See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Under Center podcast crew of JJ Stankevitz, Cam Ellis, and Adam Hoge debate and discuss which quarterback GM Ryan Pace should have gone after this offseason. Later on in the pod, they discuss hurdles the NFL still has to go through in order to start the season, and also they dive into everyone's favorite retired quarterback Jay Cutler's chicken mystery. (1:51) - Did the Bears make the right decision by going after Nick Foles? (7:47) - Is Cam Newton's upside bigger than Nick Foles? (18:00) - What can the NFL learn from MLB's return to play plan (30:23) - NFL will shorten the Pre Season to 2 games (37:00) - Bears coverage will change this year (45:13) - Jay Cutler's missing chickens See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

NBCS Chicago Bears insider JJ Stankevitz is joined by NBC Sports NFL analyst Chris Simms, to discuss who should be at the top of the NFC North division this season and does a detailed break down on the Bears. They get into who should start for the Bears this year, what Matt Nagy needs to fix in his offense, and can rookie tight end Cole Kmet make an instant impact on the Bears this year. (1:22) - Where do the Bears sit in the NFC North division (4:48) - What does it mean when teams say "open competition" at quarterback? (8:20) - What does Matt Nagy need to do to fix the offense (13:55) - Can Cole Kmet be Gronk? (16:27) - If Mitch doesn't start this year, will he ever start an NFL game again? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

2020 has offered new challenges in trying to start the NFL season. Bears writers for NBCS Chicago JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis along with NBCS Chicago Bears content producer Eric Strobel discuss how NFL training camps will look like under new health and safety guidelines, and will changes impact players negatively when they eventually get on the field. (2:40) - What will the NFL do to try and start the season? (9:05) - How will players get the necessary contact they need to play football? (17:48) - Will a team become so competitive that they hide a positive COVID-19 test? (21:00) - Playing an NFL game with no fans and sound piped in (25:05) - How will Nagy conduct an actual QB competition with less prep time? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laurence Holmes is joined by Super Bowl Champion and Hall of Famer Terrell Davis, as they discuss the state of America and the fight for social justice. Terrell explains what it was like for him growing up, his admiration and respect for US soldiers, how we all can contribute to making things better and discusses his new revolutionary CBD energy drink DEFY. (4:50) - Terrell on the Last Dance documentary and compares his leadership style to Jordan's (7:58) - Is Drew Brees being sincere with his apology? (13:35) - Terrell explains life as a black man growing up (25:55) - Terrell's connection with military vets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The new coaches for the Bears, John DeFilippo, Clancy Barone, and Bill Lazor spoke to the media and discussed how will they address the issues of the Bears to make them a contender. JJ Stankevitz, Laurence Holmes, and Cam Ellis react to the coaches speaking and discuss will they have the formula to improve Mitch Trubisky. (6:15) - Will John DeFilippo be able to change Mitch Trubisky? (13:40) - Will the coaching staff listen to Mitch on what he wants (23:01) - How will Tight Ends coach Clancy Barone help the run game (32:05) - Kyle Long seems like he wants to play football (35:10) - Offensive coordinator Bill Lazor on coaching during a pandemic See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

JJ Stankevitz, Cam Ellis, and Laurence Holmes react to Bears QB Mitch Trubisky's first media availability since the end of last season, meaning he reacted to the Nick Foles acquisition for the first time. You'll hear from Mitch himself on a couple key topics, and the guys have a big-picture discussion on his comments and how he presents himself to the media. (1:15) - Initial reactions to Mitch's comments about being "pissed off" heading into 2020 (10:15) - Can a connection be drawn between his normally-reserved podium demeanor and his on-field play? (18:15) - JJ recounts a 1-on-1 interview he had with Mitch that revealed a different side of his personality (25:10) - the challenge Matt Nagy has during training camp and preseason in the COVID-19 era, and how different this season might look See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

JJ Stankevitz and Cam Ellis discuss the Bears ending their virtual offseason program a week and a half early as well as some reported preseason changes and Jordan Lucas’ comments on planning to kneel for the anthem in the fall. Then, JJ catches up with NBC Sports’ Rodney Harrison to talk about Eddie Jackson, Mitch Trubisky, and much more. (1:02) - Why the Bears decided to cut their virtual offseason short (9:45) - How preseason changes will affect Bears’ personnel evaluations (16:35) - Discussion of Jordan Lucas saying he’ll kneel “110%” this fall (24:00) - Interview with Rodney Harrison of NBC Sports See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After NBC re-aired Super Bowl XX between the Bears and Patriots from January 1986 this past Sunday, a panel of JJ Stankevitz, Laurence Holmes, Cam Ellis, and Adam Hoge got together to discuss the game from a variety of standpoints. Whether it was watching the game for the first time all the way through or just watching it again with a new perspective on things, there was plenty to discuss about the greatest moment in Bears franchise history. (3:00) -Thoughts on the NBC broadcast and how things have changed in the presentation of the game (17:00) - Dissecting the Bears' expert game plan on both offense and defense (30:50) - Who had the best nickname on the ‘85 Bears? (33:30) - Discussion about Walter Payton not scoring a touchdown, how it happened in the flow of the game, and how it would be covered today See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the wake of the murder of George Floyd, the Under Center podcast of Laurence Holmes, JJ Stankevitz, and Cam Ellis, have a deep and meaningful discussion on social justice and racial inequality in America, with added comments from Drew Brees, and current Bears Akiem Hicks and Allen Robinson. (29:57) - Akiem Hicks on being fearful of losing his career if he took a knee (36:57) - Drew Brees on Colin Kaepernick's silent protest (51:45) - Allen Robinson on making sure this passion for equality continues (1:02:30) - Akiem Hicks on having to make other people feel comfortable around him See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host Laurence Holmes is joined by former Bears wide receiver and host of the Waddle & Silvy show on ESPN AM 1000, Tom Waddle as they do a deep dive on the issues with Mitch Trubisky, who wins the starting QB job for the Bears, and Tom makes a career comparison to Steve Kerr in the Last Dance. (5:30) - How can Trubisky be a better quarterback? (10:00) - How can the QB competition be fair for the Bears (14:00) - Nick Foles has an advantage over Mitch Trubisky (16:10) - Will Robert Quinn have an instant impact as a Bear (21:00) - Tom Waddle compares his role with the Bears with Steve Kerr's role with the Bulls See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a roundtable discussion, host Laurence Holmes is with the NBCS Chicago Bears coverage team of JJ Stankevitz, Cam Ellis, and Adam Hoge as they react and discuss the interview Kevin White did with the Under Center podcast. Was Kevin honest about his tenure with the Bears? Did the Bears give him an honest chance to play? They discuss these questions and more on the Under Center podcast. (2:50) - Most important thing of the Kevin White Interview (10:52) - How did the Bears use Kevin White? (18:30) - Did Kevin White do his job the best he could have as a Bear? (26:36) - Kevin White says the Bears played the guys they paid over him (32:00) - Kevin White should re-invent himself to stay in the NFL (39:15) - What does Kevin White do if he doesn't play football anymore See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 2015, in his very first draft as the new Bears GM, Ryan selected wide receiver Kevin White 7th overall, but White was soon let go after his rookie deal leaving fans confused and wondering why White's Chicago Bears tenure was so short lived. NBCS Bears insider JJ Stankevitz got a chance to talk with White about his career with the Bears, where it went wrong, and how he's still fighting to get rid of the label "bust" by his name. (4:41) - What did it mean for White to be selected 7th overall (11:21) - Is it difficult having the word "bust" attached to his (White) name (17:40) - Things the average fans doesn't know about constantly rehabbing injuries (26:07) - White describes what went wrong in 2018 for him (34:07) - White feels he could have gotten a better shot to play (42:10) - White wants to prove to Chicago fans that he was worth the pick See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kevin White was the 7th overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft and 1st selection GM Ryan Pace ever made and after his rookie contract was up, White was let go. What happened? Where did it go wrong? JJ Stankevitz got a chance to go in depth with White on his career so far and how his Bears tenure ended. Enjoy this preview for tomorrow's sit down with Kevin White. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The top pick for the Bears in the 2020 NFL draft in the 2nd round was Notre Dame tight end Cole Kmet. JJ Stankevitz is joined by former offensive coordinator for the Fighting Irish, Chip Long and former wide receiver at Notre Dame turned broadcaster Corey Robinson, to discuss everything you need to know about who Cole is and what he can bring to the Bears. (1:20) - Chip Long interview/ Who are the Bears getting in Cole Kmet (4:30) - Cole's potential hasn't even been tapped (9:00) - Chip Long on Cole playing well through injury (12:40) - Corey Robinson interview (13:30) - Notre Dame's ability to put out NFL tight ends (18:00) - Cole's comparison's to Gronk (22:50) - What are the Bears losing in firing former O-line coach Harry Hiestand See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Chicago Bears had their own Michael Jordan in Walter Payton, and the 2 managed to befriend each other. Host Laurence Holmes is joined by the son of Walter Payton, Jarrett Payton to discuss stories of Walter and Michael, their roles as representatives of the Chicago sports athlete, and what both legacies mean to the city of Chicago. (3:28) - Jarrett Payton's connection to the Jordan children (5:08) - The story of Walter Payton playing cards with Michael Jordan (13:45) - Jarrett's appreciation of MJ in the last dance (17:20) - Why did Walter and MJ click as well as they did See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chicago in the '90s was all about Michael Jordan and the Bulls, so what was it like for the other major teams during that time? Host Laurence Holmes discusses this with four coaches who led teams in the shadow of the Bulls during that time. From the Blackhawks former coach Craig Hartsburg, from the Cubs Jim Riggleman, from the White Sox Gene Lamont, and from the Bears Dave Wannstedt, all come together to discuss one of the most important times in Chicago sports history. (0:43) - During the early '90s the White Sox had a shot at a World Series (7:02) - Are there universal rules across sports to coaching a great player like Jordan (14:34) - Was there pressure for Jim Riggleman and the Cubs to win because of the Bulls (21:55) - Difficulties coaching in the same building as the Bulls for then new Blackhawks coach Craig Hartsburg (28:15) - Favorite Jordan story or moment See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Friday, May 8, Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson responded to a tweet and flatly said prior to the 2017 NFL Draft the Bears did not talk to him. The tweet sent Bears fans ablaze only to find out in an interview before the draft Watson actually said that he talked to the Bears over the phone. So which is it? The NBCS Chicago Bears coverage team of JJ Stankevitz, Cam Ellis and Adam Hoge try to get to the bottom of this. (1:46) - Questioning the accuracy of Watson's claim (8:36) - The reason why Watson sent the tweet (12:30) - Will the Bears address Watson's tweet? (15:00) - Ryan Pace speaks on declining Trubisky's option (25:45) - Bears schedule gets released (13:45) - Should there have been more contingency plans made by the NFL? (37:16) - Most important games for the Bears this season See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears drafted defensive back Jaylon Johnson with their second pick in the second round 50th overall in the 2020 NFL draft out of Utah, but what kind of player is he and can he make the impact the Bears need in his first few years? To learn more about him, host Laurence Holmes is joined by Jaylon's defensive backs coach from Utah Sharrieff Shah as they discuss all fans need to know about the new Bears cornerback. (4:44) - What did Sharrieff see in Jaylon in high school (10:00) - Jaylon knew he would be in the NFL after only 3yrs in college (16:04) - Jaylon's recover ability is insane (22:18) -Defensive backs need to have a short memory (24:58) - What should Bears fans expect from Jaylon See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.