Top 10 Chicago Bears players from 2024 with the most to prove as they aim to elevate their game and impact.

The Chicago Bears entered the 2024 NFL season with a mix of hope, ambition, and a roster packed with talent—but also with plenty of questions. Like many rebuilding franchises, the Bears featured a number of players whose potential remains largely untapped or who faced pressure to overcome past struggles. These athletes, tasked with proving their worth, carried the hopes of fans eager for a return to competitiveness and playoff contention.

This article revisits the top 10 Chicago Bears players from the 2024 roster who had the most to prove. We’ll analyze their backgrounds, previous performances, expectations going into 2024, and what their futures might hold as they seek to become cornerstones of the franchise.

1. Justin Fields – Quarterback

Background and Expectations

Entering his third NFL season in 2024, quarterback Justin Fields remained the cornerstone of the Bears’ offense. Drafted in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Fields showcased flashes of brilliance but also endured growing pains and inconsistencies.

Fields faced immense pressure to evolve into the franchise quarterback the Bears desperately needed. His 2023 season featured ups and downs, with moments of dynamic playmaking but also turnovers and questionable decisions.

What He Needed to Prove in 2024

Fields had to prove he could consistently read defenses, limit mistakes, and lead the team on game-winning drives. The Bears and fans expected improved pocket presence and better command of the offense.

2024 Outlook

Fields’ ability to develop chemistry with his receivers and maintain durability were key storylines. His growth trajectory would determine Chicago’s offensive identity for years to come.

2. Darnell Mooney – Wide Receiver

Background and Expectations

Darnell Mooney entered 2024 as the Bears’ primary deep threat. Despite impressive speed and explosiveness, Mooney struggled with consistency and injuries early in his career.

What He Needed to Prove

Mooney needed to show he could be a reliable No. 1 receiver, improving his route running, hands, and ability to create separation against top cornerbacks.

2024 Outlook

His production would be a major factor in Fields’ success, and Mooney’s ability to stretch defenses vertically was vital for the Bears’ passing game.

3. Roquan Smith – Linebacker

Background and Expectations

Roquan Smith, one of the Bears’ defensive leaders, had a mixed 2023 marked by solid tackling but fewer impactful plays like sacks or forced turnovers.

What He Needed to Prove

Smith needed to prove he could dominate games, elevate the defense, and serve as the vocal leader on and off the field.

2024 Outlook

His health, playmaking ability, and leadership would influence the overall effectiveness of Chicago’s defense.

4. Cole Kmet – Tight End

Background and Expectations

Tight end Cole Kmet had steadily improved but hadn’t yet broken out as a consistent offensive weapon.

What He Needed to Prove

Kmet needed to prove he could be a reliable target for Fields, especially in clutch situations and third downs.

2024 Outlook

With potential to be a matchup nightmare, Kmet’s progress was crucial to diversifying the Bears’ passing attack.

5. Kyler Gordon – Cornerback

Background and Expectations

As a promising young cornerback, Kyler Gordon had moments of solid coverage but was still developing consistency in 2023.

What He Needed to Prove

Gordon needed to show he could lock down top receivers, minimize blown coverages, and contribute to turnovers.

2024 Outlook

His emergence as a lockdown corner would significantly improve Chicago’s secondary.

6. Chase Claypool – Wide Receiver

Background and Expectations

Acquired in a trade, Claypool had shown flashes of brilliance but had been inconsistent.

What He Needed to Prove

Claypool needed to prove he could be a dependable possession receiver and red-zone threat for Fields.

### 2024 Outlook

His contribution would help relieve pressure on Mooney and open up the field.

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## 7. Jaylon Johnson – Cornerback

### Background and Expectations

Another cornerback with potential, Jaylon Johnson had struggled with injuries but showed upside.

### What He Needed to Prove

Johnson needed to stay healthy and improve his coverage skills to solidify the Bears’ defensive backfield.

### 2024 Outlook

His availability and development were critical for defensive continuity.

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## 8. Roquan Smith – Defensive Anchor

(*Note: Since Smith is already covered, we’ll pivot to another player.*)

## 8. Larry Borom – Offensive Tackle

### Background and Expectations

Larry Borom was tasked with protecting Fields’ blindside after some shaky performances in 2023.

### What He Needed to Prove

Borom needed to show improvement in pass protection and run blocking to give Fields more time and open lanes.

### 2024 Outlook

Better offensive line play would be fundamental to the Bears’ offensive growth.

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## 9. DeMarvion Overshown – Linebacker

### Background and Expectations

A young linebacker with promise, Overshown needed to carve out a larger role.

### What He Needed to Prove

Overshown needed to demonstrate improved tackling, awareness, and versatility in coverage.

### 2024 Outlook

His development could add depth and athleticism to the linebacker group.

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## 10. Justin Jones – Defensive Lineman

### Background and Expectations

Defensive tackle Justin Jones was expected to anchor the defensive front but had an up-and-down 2023.

### What He Needed to Prove

Jones needed to improve his consistency, disrupt the offensive line, and generate pressure.

### 2024 Outlook

His presence could significantly improve the Bears’ run defense and pass rush.

The Path Forward

The 2024 Chicago Bears season was as much about individual redemption and proving worth as it was about team success. For players like Justin Fields, Darnell Mooney, and Roquan Smith, the pressure to elevate their game was immense. Each player listed above faced a personal crossroads—rise to the challenge or fall short of expectations.

For the Bears to transform into a playoff contender, these players had to step up and deliver. Fans and analysts watched closely, knowing the futures of these key athletes—and the franchise’s fortunes—depended on their performance.

As the 2024 season progressed, it became clear which players met the challenge, which struggled, and which young talents showed glimpses of a bright future. Chicago’s rebuilding journey hinged on this core group, making them the most important players to watch and support.