Joint practices have become the norm around the NFL during training camp and the Chicago Bears are upping the ante with two this summer.

Joint practices during NFL training camps have grown in popularity over the past decade, evolving from a rare novelty into an almost standard part of preseason preparation. Teams across the league use these sessions to sharpen their skills, gauge their roster depth, and simulate real-game environments. This summer, the Chicago Bears are taking that concept seriously, scheduling two joint practices with quality opponents to elevate their 2025 training camp experience.

The Rise of Joint Practices in the NFL

Joint practices — where two teams come together during training camp to practice against each other — provide unique benefits that intra-squad drills simply can’t replicate. Unlike scrimmages with teammates, joint sessions allow players to face fresh opponents with different tendencies, forcing quick adjustments and fostering a more competitive atmosphere. They create scenarios closer to the intensity of regular-season games, improving mental and physical readiness.

While some teams remain cautious about potential injury risks, most recognize the competitive advantages. In recent years, joint practices have become more frequent, particularly for rebuilding teams seeking to accelerate growth or playoff contenders aiming to stay sharp.

Why the Chicago Bears Are Embracing Joint Practices

For the Bears, who have been in a rebuilding phase, the decision to schedule two joint practices this summer highlights a shift in mindset under new head coach Ben Johnson. The organization is aiming to fast-track player development, build chemistry, and instill a tough, competitive culture.

Last season exposed several weaknesses, especially in offensive line play and defensive consistency. By inviting two strong opponents for joint sessions, the Bears intend to expose their roster to challenges early and often. The goal is clear: create real game-like conditions that push players physically and mentally, and identify which individuals can step up as the team aims to climb the NFC North standings.

The Opponents and Their Challenges

The Bears have scheduled joint practices with two notable teams: the Miami Dolphins and the Buffalo Bills. Both franchises have established themselves as playoff-caliber teams, meaning Chicago’s roster will face high-level competition.

• Miami Dolphins: Known for their explosive offense, led by a dynamic quarterback and speedy playmakers, the Dolphins will test the Bears’ defensive schemes and communication. Facing Miami’s passing attack in practice will force Chicago’s secondary and linebackers to work hard on coverage and tackling.
• Buffalo Bills: With a stout defense and physical style of play, the Bills will challenge Chicago’s offensive line and skill players. The Bears’ offensive front must hold up against Buffalo’s pass rush, and their skill players will need to make plays against one of the league’s more disciplined defensive units.

The diversity of these opponents means the Bears will get a comprehensive preparation that touches on all aspects of their game.

Coach Ben Johnson’s Philosophy

Ben Johnson, stepping into his first season as the Bears’ head coach, is known for emphasizing physicality, discipline, and preparation. He’s seen firsthand, from his prior NFL experiences, how joint practices can push a team’s standards higher. Johnson believes that exposing his players to tough competition in a controlled practice setting helps them grow faster and become more resilient.

Under Johnson’s leadership, the Bears are likely to take a much more intense approach to training camp, making the most of these joint practices by incorporating them into their strategic preparation rather than viewing them as mere exhibitions.

Benefits Beyond the Field

Joint practices offer benefits that extend beyond just physical readiness:

• Roster Evaluation: Coaches can evaluate players in real-time competitive settings against outsiders, helping to identify which players can handle pressure, adapt, and execute in complex scenarios.
• Building Depth: With the NFL season’s length and physical demands, having depth at every position is vital. Joint practices allow coaches to test backups and fringe roster players against quality competition, helping to make informed decisions on final rosters.
• Mental Toughness: Facing unfamiliar opponents and styles forces players to quickly adjust and think on their feet, developing mental toughness and football IQ.
• Team Chemistry: Practicing alongside a new opponent requires communication and teamwork to adapt. Players learn to trust one another, which can carry over positively to regular season cohesion.

Logistics and Fan Engagement

These joint practices typically take place at the team’s training facility, which for the Bears is the state-of-the-art Halas Hall in Lake Forest, Illinois. Practices often open to fans create exciting opportunities for Bears supporters to get an early look at their team in meaningful competition.

The Bears usually schedule joint practices a few days before their preseason games against these same opponents, making the timing ideal for simulating game environments and game plan implementation.

Potential Risks and Mitigations

While joint practices bring clear benefits, there are risks involved, chiefly the potential for injury. High-intensity sessions against outside competition can sometimes lead to increased contact and risk. The Bears’ coaching staff and medical team will be mindful of managing intensity and player safety, balancing competitive benefits with health preservation.

In addition, logistics like practice schedules and travel must be coordinated carefully to avoid player fatigue. By hosting both joint practices at their home facility, the Bears reduce travel strain on their players, allowing for better recovery and focus.

The Bigger Picture for the Bears

The 2025 season represents a crucial juncture for the Bears. After several years of ups and downs, they are eager to move into playoff contention. These joint practices are not just about training camp — they’re symbolic of the team’s renewed commitment to compete at a high level.

With emerging young talent on both sides of the ball and a coaching staff focused on discipline and growth, the Bears view these joint practices as a catalyst for their transformation. The lessons learned and experience gained will be essential as the team navigates a challenging NFC North division and a rigorous NFL schedule.

Historical Context of Joint Practices and the Bears

Historically, the Bears have occasionally participated in joint practices but never quite on the scale or intensity planned for 2025. The growing trend league-wide reflects an evolution in training philosophies, driven by the competitive nature of the modern NFL. Teams like the Bears are learning that the added challenge during camp can translate into better performance once the regular season arrives.

What Fans Can Expect

Bears fans should anticipate a more energized and competitive training camp experience. The joint practices will be fast-paced, physical, and intense. Fans attending or watching will get a glimpse of the team’s potential, the new coaching staff’s approach, and the battle for roster spots.

These sessions will be an early barometer for the Bears’ readiness and might hint at which players could emerge as key contributors. It’s also a chance to see rookies and new acquisitions tested against NFL-caliber opponents.

Joint practices have become an essential part of NFL training camps, and the Chicago Bears are embracing them fully in 2025. By scheduling two joint sessions with the Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills, the Bears are investing in a more rigorous and strategic preseason preparation.

These joint practices will challenge the players physically and mentally, provide valuable insights for coaches, and accelerate the team’s development. Under Ben Johnson’s leadership, the Bears are signaling their intent to compete with renewed energy and focus.

For a team seeking to turn the page and climb the competitive ladder, these joint practices represent a vital piece of the puzzle — a proving ground where the Bears hope to lay the foundation for a successful season and beyond.