Chicago Bears Training Camp Is Here, and There's Already Plenty to Talk About

 

Training camp is officially underway, and after waiting months for football to return, it finally feels like Bears season again. In this episode of The Shawn Mackey Show, I wrapped up my breakdown of the Chicago Bears' 2026 draft class, talked about everything happening at training camp, and even celebrated another strong week for the Chicago Cubs.

Before diving into football, I couldn't ignore what the Cubs have been doing. They put together an impressive road trip by winning series against both the Pirates and Cardinals before returning home to take down the Yankees. I even made the trip to St. Louis, where I caught the extra-inning win and visited one of the city's incredible science museums. It turned into a great family experience filled with STEM exhibits, interactive displays, and plenty of baseball memories.

Then it was time to finish evaluating the Bears' rookie class.

I broke down cornerback Malik Muhammad, whose speed, length, and versatility could allow him to contribute much sooner than expected. He still needs to add strength, but the athletic ability is obvious.

Next was linebacker Keyshaun Elliott, who unfortunately has already landed on the active PUP list with a back injury. He's a physical run-stopper with a relentless motor, but now the focus becomes getting healthy before he can compete for playing time and special teams duties.

Finally, I discussed defensive tackle Jordan Vandenberg, a player the Bears traded up to select. His athleticism and ability to fit into an aggressive one-gap defensive front make him one of the more intriguing developmental players from this draft.

Training camp itself has been fascinating.

Early reports suggest Caleb Williams looks more comfortable than ever. He's leaner, healthier, and appears far more confident operating Ben Johnson's offense. Watching him connect with Colston Loveland, Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III, and the rest of the offense has been encouraging. The creativity Ben Johnson brings to multiple tight-end formations could make this offense one of the most unpredictable units the Bears have fielded in years.

Eventually, the defense answered back. After several offensive-heavy practices, the defense finally forced turnovers and began making life difficult for Caleb Williams despite rainy conditions. That's exactly the type of competitive environment you want to see during camp.

One storyline I'll continue following is the battle at left tackle. Braxton Jones, Jedrick Wills Jr., and Kiran Amegadjie are all competing for valuable snaps, and that competition could shape the entire offensive line heading into Week One.

Of course, training camp also brings injuries, and unfortunately the Bears already have several players sidelined. Kyle Monangai's absence remains unexplained, Jack Sanborn left practice early, T.J. Edwards is dealing with a calf injury, and several other defensive players are working through injuries. Hopefully everyone returns quickly because staying healthy is half the battle during August.

As always, I shared my thoughts honestly, celebrated the positives, questioned the concerns, and looked ahead to what's next.

With the Hall of Fame Game coming up, we'll finally have live football to discuss. That means game recaps, player evaluations, statistical leaders, and maybe even the return of one of my favorite segments—Champs and Chumps.

Football is back, Bears fans.

I couldn't be more excited.