The Chicago Bears believe the changes they’ve made to improve their run defense will also strengthen the entire unit.
At Wednesday’s OTA practice, the offense tried a run play to the left. While OTAs are non-contact practices, some physical pushing and leaning still occur. On this particular play, Andrew Billings blew up the blocking scheme, causing the play to be stopped in the backfield. Defensive players quickly surrounded Billings in celebration, as if it were a critical goal-line stand during the regular season.
Some Bears fans are debating whether the team still needs another edge rusher, but the coaches and players think the upgrades to the run defense will be more impactful overall. Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen’s system, like previous Bears defenses, emphasizes stopping the run as the first priority. Defensive end Montez Sweat reinforced this mindset, saying that rushing the passer is important but only possible once the run has been stopped.
Sweat’s words reflect a proven truth in the NFL: when defenses shut down the run, they can more easily control the rest of the game. Run defense requires a physical and aggressive mentality, which sets the tone for the entire defense. Statistics back this up — last year, 10 of the top 11 run defenses reached the playoffs, compared to only four of the top 10 pass defenses.
The Bears’ run defense regressed significantly in 2024, giving up 2,317 rushing yards after leading the league with only 1,468 in 2023. They were near the bottom in 2022 as well. A big factor was the loss of Billings, who missed much of the season with a pectoral injury. Lions coach Ben Johnson noted how Billings’ absence made the Bears easier to run against.
But Billings alone isn’t the answer. Before his injury, the Bears were already dropping to 14th in run defense, and once he was out, they fell even further. They also lost Justin Jones to the Cardinals, and Gervon Dexter didn’t step up as a reliable run stopper. Jones had been key at defensive tackle, with 22 tackles for loss in two seasons, but without him and Billings, the Bears’ best defensive tackle in tackles for loss last year was backup Byron Cowart, who only had five.
That’s why adding Grady Jarrett was so significant. Defensive line coach Jeremy Garrett said Jarrett is tough, explosive, and a natural leader who backs it up by working hard every day. Jarrett’s leadership and playmaking ability should help stabilize the front. The Bears also added Shemar Turner in the draft to develop behind Jarrett at the 3-technique spot and brought in Dayo Odeyingbo as a stout edge defender.
Garrett said the team’s philosophy starts with a tough and relentless front. He wants to see them attacking blocks, knocking offensive players backward, and playing with an edge every snap.
The Bears are confident that by focusing on their run defense, their pass rush will naturally improve — even without adding another edge rusher. They believe the changes they’ve made up front will pay off and make them a much tougher defense in 2025.
