3. While the defense regressed, they were still a top unit

There was no getting around the regression that the Bears defense suffered in 2019. That’s what happens when you have that impressive of a season coupled with implementing a new defensive coordinator and a slew of injuries to key starters.

Despite all of those factors, the Bears defense was a top-five unit in 2019. They allowed the fourth-fewest points in the NFL at 18.6, which was just one point more than their own offense’s average points per game.

The glaring concern for the defense this season was the decline in takeaways from a season ago. After managing 36 takeaways in 2018, Chicago’s defense managed just 19 in 2019. Considering the offense thrived off their defense’s ability to give them short fields — and even score them points — last season, it’s something this team could really use more of in 2020.

The defense wasn’t the problem this season, but there are still areas where they can improve, including the pass rush. Production was down as a unit in rushing the passer — the Bears had 32 sacks, which was 18 less than last season.