Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the biggest stories surrounding the Chicago Bears and the NFL. Get the latest news, analysis, and conversation every weekday on Forward Progress. New episodes drop daily at 1 p.m. CT.

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✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered

✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈

✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀

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Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down some of the biggest stories around the NFL, including ESPN’s removal of a report involving former Bear Mike Pennel and the latest on Brendan Sorsby’s pursuit to play this season.

0:00 Mike Pennel

5:00 Brendan Sorsby

9:00 Ben Solak's Bold Predictions

The guys also dive into analyst Ben Solak’s bold NFL predictions — separating the realistic from the downright wild, just as Solak intended. Plus, they hit on what might be the most important storyline of all: Taylor and Travis’s...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola revisit the Dianna Russini situation as another questionable claim surfaces—this time over something so minor it raises bigger concerns about credibility and trust. The guys break down what it could mean and why it matters.

0:00 Russini

11:30 Ben Johnson

15:30 Offseason Grades

They also shift to the NFL, asking an intriguing question: could Ben Johnson make a run at Coach of the Year in 2026? Plus, Dan and Matt go around the league with the latest headlines as the countdown to training ca...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest twists in the Chicago Bears’ ongoing stadium saga. SI.com’s Albert Breer sizes up every NFL team heading into the summer and preview what to watch as training camp approaches. The guys also discuss a key message for Caleb Williams entering the 2026 season: stay within the offense, do less, and let success come.

0:00 Bears Stadium

2:00 Albert Breer

14:00 Buffalo and OJ

20:00 Brendan Sorsby

24:30 Detroit Lions

Plus, they dive into the Buffalo Bills’ decisi...

On this episode, Dan Bernstein discusses Bears President Kevin Warren's upcoming "Talking Football" event, suggesting frustrated Bears fans should show up and make their voices heard. With emotions still running high over the stadium situation, team direction, and front office decisions, Bears fans have plenty of questions they want answered.

In this episode, we break down:

Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the upcoming Hallmark movie featuring cameo appearances from Bears coaches and players. Plus, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell ranks the NFL’s top wide receivers, tight ends, and running backs, and the guys react. They also share the latest details on Bears Training Camp as key dates and info are released.

0:00 Bears Hallmark Movie

8:30 ESPN Bill Barnwell

12:45 Lions

16:45 Caleb Williams

25:00 Training Camp

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Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest New York Times report on Dianna Russini, diving into the irony and hypocrisy that stand out most.

0:00 Russini

25:00 Bears/NFL notes

They also share a quick update on the Bears’ ongoing stadium saga from today’s Dan Bernstein Unfiltered, take an early look at the team’s depth chart, and recap the highlights from Tight End University.

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Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola applaud the Chicago Bears for finally stepping into negotiations with Illinois lawmakers on a new stadium proposal.

0:00 Bears Stadium

7:00 Xavier Carlton

9:00 NFL-UFL

13:00 Bears TEs

18:00 Top 100 Players

Plus, a breakdown of the Bears’ tight ends, a look at the UFL, and the top standout performers from NFC West spring workouts.

All that and more in a packed podcast loaded with NFL content you’ll only find on Forward Progress.

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Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest developments in the Chicago Bears’ stadium situation—full details on today’s episode of Dan Bernstein Unfiltered.

0:00 Bears Stadium

3:30 Ben's Circle of Trust

10:00 NFC North

18:15 Mike Pennel

29:45 NFL.com - Playoff Drought

They also dive into which two contracts could have the biggest negative impact on the Bears this season and examine Ben Johnson’s “circle of trust” heading into the year.

Plus, a disturbing story involving former NFL player Mike Pennel...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the early run of good fortune surrounding Ben Johnson as he steps into life as an NFL Offensive Coordinator and Head Coach.

0:00 Bears

9:50 Tight End U

12:35 Caleb / Rory

23:00 NFL News & Notes

The guys also take a closer look at four Bears players whose stock has taken a hit since OTAs, and why expectations may be shifting.

Plus, Dan draws a fascinating comparison between Caleb Williams and Rory McIlroy, examining how elite talents are evaluated...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down a smarter way to evaluate Caleb Williams’ success—going beyond simple completion percentage.

0:00 Caleb Williams

10:00 Vita Vea

15:00 8 NFL Players to Watch

20:45 Matt Eberflus

26:45 Backup QBs

They also explore a situation developing in Tampa Bay that could catch Ryan Poles’ attention, revisit just how rough Matt Eberflus’ stint in Dallas really was (with insight from his former players), and debate whether Tyson Bagent might be the best backup quarterback in the NFL.

#ch...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the growing rockstar aura around Caleb Williams, as witnessed from second-year wide receiver Luther Burden.

0:00 Caleb Williams

6:00 Green Bay

14:00 NFL News & Notes

They also dive into rising tensions between Wisconsin lawmakers and the Green Bay Packers over the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961—before offering up their own solution for the franchise. The show wraps with a trip around the NFL, hitting the latest news and notes from across the league.

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Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest Chicago Bears storylines, including Kalif Raymond’s advice to rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and a look at two new UFL additions to the roster.

0:00 Bears

11:00 Jaylon Johnson

24:20 NFL News and Notes

They also dive into the status of star cornerback Jaylon Johnson—is he back? Plus, the guys hit the biggest NFL news and notes: who might have a shot at breaking Calvin Johnson’s legendary receiving record, the latest on Aldon Smith, and which rookies around the league still...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down what the Chicago Bears’ potential move to a new stadium in Hammond, Indiana would mean for fans—focusing on the real-world logistics of getting to and from games.

0:00 Ben Johnson

4:30 Driving to/from Hammond

18:30 Russini Story

25:00 Bears QB Groups

29:00 Caleb Williams

The guys also dive into the evolving power structure at Halas Hall, where it’s becoming increasingly clear that head coach Ben Johnson is firmly in control of football operations. Plus, with The Athlet...

The Chicago Bears veteran minicamp and there are several key position battles that are far from settled heading into training camp. Joining Dan Bernstein on the show is Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic to break down the biggest competitions on the roster, including the battles along the offensive line, wide receiver depth chart, defensive end rotation, and more.

We also discuss Caleb Williams' development throughout the offseason program, which players have helped themselves the most during OTAs and minicamp, and what Bears fans should be watching when training camp opens in July.

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For decades, Chicago Bears fans have debated the strengths and weaknesses of the McCaskey family's ownership of the franchise. From preserving the franchise's historic identity to maintaining organizational stability and investing in the team's future, we're taking a balanced look. Is there something the McCaskeys deserve more credit for? Or do the results on the field outweigh any positives behind the scenes?

Drop your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear from Bears fans on both sides of the debate.

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✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered

✅ Forward Progress - A Chi...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down Day 1 of the Bears’ mandatory minicamp, including the lack of follow-up on Rome Odunze’s comments about his much-discussed foot.

0:00 Bears

9:30 Defense

16:20 Todd Monken

21:00 Mike Vrabel

They highlight standout performances, with Kalif Raymond catching Ben Johnson’s eye and Jaylon Johnson impressing multiple observers. The guys also note Shemar Turner being sidelined with an ankle injury and discuss expectations for the defensive front seven. Plus, they touch on Todd Monken’s quarterback situation and question Mike Vrabel’s...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola examine whether the modern NFL business landscape has passed the McCaskey family by. While neither expects the family to actually sell the Bears, they make the case that doing so could be the smartest long-term move—unlocking generational wealth while preserving the Halas/McCaskey legacy. They also discuss how, despite owning one of the league’s cornerstone franchises for over a century, the McCaskeys may lack the financial resources and political influence needed to compete at the highest level in today’s billionaire-driven NFL.

#chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sports...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola take a hard look at the Chicago Bears’ ongoing business-side dysfunction—and how it could impact the future of franchise quarterback Caleb Williams.

0:00 Caleb

21:00 UFL

29:30 Bears Left Tackle

The guys break down Kevin Warren’s questionable timing when it comes to major announcements, from overshadowing Packer Week with stadium project noise to stepping on Caleb’s massive Madden 27 cover moment with yet another off-field headline.

At a time when the Bears should be building momentum and protecting their young su...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest statement from George McCaskey and Kevin Warren, in which the Chicago Bears reaffirm their commitment to a future stadium project—this time pointing to Hammond, Indiana—while simultaneously admitting that no actual site has been selected. The guys dissect the mixed messaging and what it reveals about the state of the plan, questioning whether this is progress or more confusion from team leadership. They also examine Kevin Warren’s role in the process, arguing that what was framed as a strategic leverage play quickly unraveled and exposed deeper issues within the or...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest developments from Halas Hall as the Bears continue their second round of offseason OTAs.

0:00 Rome Odunze

6:00 Kyler Gordon

16:00 NFL News & Notes

The guys dive into Ben Johnson’s pointed comments directed at Kyler Gordon regarding his latest injury absence and hear from Rome Odunze as he opens up about the foot issue that impacted last season. Plus, Dan and Matt take a spin around the league to hit the biggest NFL news and notes shaping the of...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola react to the big news of Caleb Williams landing on the cover of Madden 27, and the buzz it’s creating around Bears fans.

0:00 Caleb

10:40 Bears - Bengals

14:20 Bears with the most to prove

19:00 Bears playoff chances

22:30 Aaron Donald

24:20 AJ Brown

Listeners join the fun by submitting their own creative Chicago-themed Madden cover ideas, bringing some humor and personality to the show. The guys also discuss the newly announced joint practices between the Bears and Be...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down why the NFL commissioner has been called to testify before Congress, as lawmakers question the league’s massive broadcast deals and growing shift toward streaming platforms.

0:00 Kevin Warren

5:40 NFL and Congress

22:00 Myles Garrett Trade

Plus, a full deep dive into the Myles Garrett trade and a surprising look at the question: what was Bob Ross really hiding?

For full coverage—and the latest updates on the Bears and Kevin Warren—check out the newest episode of Dan Be...

NFL breaking news rocks the league as the Cleveland Browns trade Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams—and Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola are not happy about it.

0:00 Bears Stadium

18:00 NFL Stuff

22:00 Myles Garrett

27:00 Abdul Carter / Jaxson Dart

This blockbuster move sends shockwaves through the NFL and raises major questions about both franchises moving forward.

Back in Chicago, frustration continues to build as the Bears’ stadium plan collapses in Illinois. Dan and Matt don’t hold back—calling for accountability at the t...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down everything you need to know from Day 3 of Chicago Bears OTAs

0:00 Day 2 Takeaways from OTAs

7:00 Johnson on Burden

9:15 Number 1 WR

17:30 Toughest 2026 Schedule

28:45 Stadium Project

🚨 Why is Ben Johnson buying Luther Burden stock? The hype is building fast, and we dig into what’s standing out early in camp.

👀 Can Dillon Thieneman actually live up to first-round expectations? We discuss what the Bears are getting and what to watch for.

✅ Kyler Gordon was back on the fie...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break it all down in today’s show: Will Logan Jones take over at center for Week 1 of the 2026 season? The Bears drafted the Iowa standout as the future of the position—but can he beat out veteran Garrett Bradbury right away, or is this a midseason move waiting to happen?

0:00 Bears center

11:00 Most underappreciated Bears player

23:10 Jaxson Dart

33:00 Mike Vrabel

42:45 Josh Jacobs

🔍 Who was the most underappreciated Bear from the 2025 season? We spotlight the player who qui...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest Chicago Bears news as voluntary OTAs officially get underway at Halas Hall.

0:00 Bears

13:30 Cole Kmet

18:45 Josh Jacobs

24:30 Travis Kelce

🔹 The Bears brought in veteran defensive end AJ Epenesa for a workout — could he be a fit for Chicago’s defensive line depth?

🔹 We react to a hypothetical ESPN trade scenario involving tight end Cole Kmet — would the Bears ever consider moving one of Caleb Williams’ key weapons?

🔹 Around the NFL: Green Bay Packers...

The clock is ticking in Springfield — with just days left before the Illinois Senate deadline, the future of the Chicago Bears’ proposed stadium project hangs in the balance. If the megaprojects bill doesn’t pass, it would represent a major setback — and a potential public embarrassment — for both the Bears organization and Governor J.B. Pritzker.

0:00 Stadium Project

24:00 Brian Flores

25:30 Tedd Bridgewater ACT

33:20 Bears TE

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down:

What’s at stake in the final days of negotiations...

Jeremy Garrett, the Chicago Bears Defensive Line Coach, will coach harder this season which will in turn improve the pass rush from the players who weren't able to perform to a more successful level last season.

0:00 Kyler Gordon

7:15 Bears D-Line

19:00 ESPN - Mike Clay

23:00 Bears Stadium

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✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered

✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈

✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Pod...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola discuss all things Bears including the latest on the stadium project, new player signings and does more rest equal more wins in the NFL?

0:00 Stadium Project

3:00 New Players

5:00 Net Rest Differential

15:00 Hall of Fame

18:00 DJ Moore

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✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered

✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈

✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola dive into the latest update from Roger Goodell and the league office on the Chicago Bears’ stadium situation — but there’s a catch… the update doesn’t quite add up.

0:00 Bears Stadium

5:00 George McCaskey

13:00 NFC Predictions

18:00 Rashee Rice

28:00 NFL International Games

The guys also tackle the bigger question: with George McCaskey seemingly stepping back from the business side of the team, is Kevin Warren gaining too much control over the direction of the franchise? What does that mean...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest surrounding the Chicago Bears’ stadium project and why Kevin Warren’s handling of the situation has raised questions. Dan wonders why George McCaskey hasn’t taken the lead—was it self-awareness or pressure from inside Halas Hall?

0:00 Kevin Warren

23:00 NFL Travel

27:15 Aaron Rodgers

Matt follows up with a look at how travel impacts NFL teams.

They wrap with Aaron Rodgers and his earlier-than-usual arrival at the Steelers facility this offseason.

#chicagobears #bears #chicago...

While Cubs and White Sox fans may never agree on baseball, one thing is certain: both sides of the city can rally behind the Bears. And nothing screams “Chicago is a football town” quite like a loud “Green Bay sucks!” chant echoing through a baseball stadium.

0:00 Chicago Bears

4:00 NFL Team - Travel Miles

9:35 Bears Stadium

12:00 Von Miller

15:30 Aaron Rodgers

20:00 Eli Manning

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✅ Dan Bernst...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the Chicago Bears’ 2026 schedule and ask the big question:

👉 Did the NFL quietly help the Bears… or is it just pure coincidence?

0:00 Bears Schedule

10:30 NFL Team Videos

16:40 Burden and Loveland

22:45 Marquee

From bye-week timing to travel stretches and divisional matchups, Dan and Matt analyze whether the schedule sets up favorably for Chicago—or if it’s business as usual. Are there hidden advantages that could give the Bears a real edge this season?

Plus, the...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola share live and immediate reaction to the release of the Chicago Bears 2026 schedule

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Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the buzz ahead of the official NFL schedule release, diving into leaked and rumored matchups for the Chicago Bears and what they could mean for the upcoming season. Plus, they react to a new NFL.com analysis on which division winners are built to repeat—and which teams could be headed for a fall. The show also tackles the latest controversy surrounding the Rooney Rule, as Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier brings renewed scrutiny to the policy.

0:00 Bears Schedule

8:20 NFL Division Champs

11:00 Rooney Rule

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest Brad Biggs mailbag from the Chicago Tribune — and one response about the Bears’ defensive line raises some serious eyebrows.

Biggs suggests that improved coaching could be the key to unlocking better play up front, but Bernstein and Abbatacola aren’t buying it. The guys explain why that answer feels like organizational spin and why it could come back to bite the Bears if expectations don’t match reality in 2026.

Plus, the NFL drops its international game schedule, and there’s good news for Bears fans — Chicago won’t be los...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola discuss the newest Bears signings. Special episode of Forward Progress LIVE - Thursday night 7pm with the release of the NFL Schedule.

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✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered

✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈

✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀

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Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down comments from Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen at rookie minicamp, where Allen took responsibility for a lack of focus on sound defensive fundamentals. Dan and Matt aren’t fully buying it.

0:00 Chicago Bears

15:00 Scotty Miller

17:00 Bears Rookies

23:60 Jeremiah Love

26:00 QB Trivia

To them, the explanation sounds a little too much like coach speak, leaving some important follow-up questions unanswered. It’s something we’ll be watching closely as the offseason progresses.

The guys a...

Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest developments surrounding the Mike Vrabel–Dianna Russini alleged relationship controversy and the growing questions about possible NFL tampering. With Vrabel serving as head coach of the Tennessee Titans at the time of the Julio Jones trade, the conversation turns to whether lines were crossed—and whether the dots now being connected tell a larger story. As receipts are examined, the timeline raises eyebrows.

0:00 Zah Frazier 

3:00 Vrabel and Russini

17:25 Dillon Thieneman

19:00 Bears - Penalties

On the C...