After a 19-13 loss to the Houston Texans, where rookie quarterback Caleb Williams was sacked seven times, Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus faced questions about pass protection. The Bears, now tied with the Las Vegas Raiders and San Francisco 49ers for the most sacks allowed in the league with nine over the first two weeks, are under pressure. Eberflus emphasized that protecting the quarterback is a collective effort, saying, “Protection is everyone’s responsibility—tight ends, offensive line, running backs, even the quarterback.” He added that improving the run game would help ease pressure on their young QB.
A closer look
The Bears’ running game has been among the worst in the NFL this season. Despite scoring their first offensive touchdown of the season in Week 2 with a short run by Khalil Herbert, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams remains one of four starting QBs—along with Bryce Young, Jaden Daniels, and Bo Nix—yet to throw a touchdown. Chicago’s rushing attack has been underwhelming, with the fifth-fewest rushing yards among teams with at least 35 attempts, averaging just 3.5 yards per carry, the fourth-worst in the league.
D’Andre Swift, who signed a three-year, $24 million deal with Chicago after rushing for over 1,000 yards last season with Philadelphia, has struggled to make an impact. The Bears’ offensive line, which is notably weaker than the Eagles’, has not been up to par. Pass blocking has been more problematic than run blocking, but head coach Matt Eberflus emphasized that improving the run game is crucial. He mentioned that success on the ground comes down to better fundamentals, including proper combo blocks and perimeter blocking.
Chicago’s offensive line grades from Pro Football Focus show mixed performances. While Teven Jenkins has been the highest-rated lineman, others like right tackle Darnell Wright and guard Nate Davis have been inconsistent, particularly in pass protection. With a run-heavy offense like the Bears, Eberflus stressed that getting the ground game going would significantly benefit the rookie quarterback, especially by setting up play-action opportunities. As they prepare to face the Colts in Week 3, Chicago hopes to capitalize on an Indianapolis defense that has struggled against the run in previous games.
