Bears fans are used to Chicago being ranked among the worst teams in preseason NFL Power Rankings. And while their standing at the start of the 2023 season isn't great, it could be a lot worse.
In ESPN's preseason 2023 NFL Power Rankings, the Chicago Bears check in at No. 20.
"Much like the Eagles did for Jalen Hurts last offseason, the Bears have given Fields the upgrades (DJ Moore, Chase Claypool, a better O-line) he needs to make a big leap," ESPN's Mike Clay wrote. "But the defense still has a ways to go."
Surprisingly, NFL media has more confidence in the Bears' offense than the defense right now, which is a significant change of pace for this team. Typically, Chicago faces questions about the quarterback and skill players every September. That isn't the case this year with Justin Fields and his weapons.
It makes sense that the Bears' defense is viewed as a weakness. They were the worst pass-rushing group in the NFL in 2022, and while GM Ryan Poles did add some reinforcements, they have to prove on the field that they can hang with offenses like the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings.
As for the rest of the NFC North, the Vikings rank 17th, the Lions are 18th, and the Green Bay Packers are 22nd.
ESPN's NFL Power Rankings make one thing abundantly clear: the NFC North is wide open in 2023.