Pro Football Focus’s 2025 All-Breakout Team includes two prominent Chicago Bears players, highlighting their emerging talent and potential to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.

The Chicago Bears have long been a storied franchise in the NFL, rich with history, passionate fans, and a commitment to building a competitive team. As the 2025 season approaches, there is a renewed sense of excitement surrounding the Bears, especially with some young players emerging as potential game-changers. Among these emerging talents, two players have garnered particular attention, earning spots on Pro Football Focus’s (PFF) prestigious 2025 All-Breakout Team. Their inclusion underscores their rapid development, high potential, and the promising future they represent for the Bears.

In this article, we’ll explore who these players are, their backgrounds, what has led to their breakout status, and how they could influence the Bears’ fortunes in the upcoming season and beyond. We’ll also analyze the broader implications for the team and the NFL landscape.

The Concept of a Breakout Player
Before diving into specifics, it’s essential to understand what constitutes a “breakout” player. Typically, a breakout player is someone who has shown flashes of talent or potential but hasn’t yet fully realized their capabilities or gained widespread recognition. Their performance in a given season or period marks a significant leap forward, often transforming them into key contributors or even stars.

The 2025 All-Breakout Team by PFF recognizes players poised to elevate their game, impact their teams significantly, and perhaps even change perceptions around their abilities. For the Chicago Bears, having two players on this list is a testament to the team’s young talent and promising future.

The Two Bears Stars: Who Are They?
1. Jalen Johnson – The Emerging Cornerback
Background and Development

Jalen Johnson, a second-year cornerback drafted in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, has been on the cusp of stardom since entering the league. Coming out of Utah, Johnson impressed scouts with his size, athleticism, and coverage skills. His rookie season showed promise but was marred by inconsistency, injuries, and a learning curve typical for young defensive backs.

What Led to the Breakout

By 2025, Johnson has matured physically and mentally. His offseason work focused on refining his technique, footwork, and understanding of NFL offenses. His coaches praised his dedication and ability to adapt to complex coverages. Statistically, Johnson has improved his coverage grades, registered more turnovers, and demonstrated lockdown capabilities that make him a constant threat to opposing receivers.

Impact on the Bears

Johnson’s rise means the Bears’ secondary now possesses a true shutdown corner, capable of neutralizing top receivers and contributing to the team’s pass defense. His coverage prowess allows the Bears to deploy more creative blitz packages and stifle high-powered offenses. His leadership and confidence have grown, making him a key piece in the Bears’ defensive puzzle.

2. Darnell Wright – The Offensive Tackle on the Rise
Background and Development

Darnell Wright was selected by the Bears in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of Tennessee. Known for his size, strength, and athleticism, Wright entered the league with high expectations to bolster the Bears’ offensive line, which has historically been a point of concern.

What Led to the Breakout

Initially viewed as a developmental player, Wright quickly adapted to the NFL game. His work ethic, combined with coaching staff’s guidance, allowed him to refine his technique, footwork, and understanding of pass protection schemes. By 2025, Wright has become a stalwart at right tackle, providing the offensive line with stability and confidence.

Impact on the Bears

Wright’s emergence as a dominant blocker significantly improves the Bears’ run and pass game. With a reliable offensive line, quarterback Justin Fields and the offense as a whole can operate more effectively, unlocking their full potential. Wright’s physicality and consistency make him a key component of the team’s offensive strategy moving forward.

The Significance of Their Inclusion in the 2025 All-Breakout Team
Having two players recognized by PFF as the top breakout talents for 2025 is a big deal for the Bears. It highlights the franchise’s focus on developing young talent and signals a shift toward a more promising future.

For the Bears’ Defense

Jalen Johnson’s rise solidifies the secondary, allowing the defense to be more aggressive and versatile. A lockdown corner can change the dynamic of a defense, enabling more complex coverages and blitz schemes. Johnson’s development could elevate the Bears’ pass defense from middle-of-the-road to elite status.

For the Bears’ Offense

Darnell Wright’s ascension provides stability and strength on the offensive line. Protecting the quarterback and creating lanes for the running game are fundamental to offensive success. Wright’s growth can lead to increased offensive efficiency, scoring, and overall team competitiveness.

Broader Implications

Their breakout status reflects well on the Bears’ scouting, drafting, and development programs. It also boosts team morale and confidence, providing young players with motivation and recognition. Moreover, their development could attract veteran free agents and improve the team’s overall competitiveness.

Potential Impact on the 2025 Season
Jalen Johnson

With Johnson performing at an All-Breakout level, opponents may find it more challenging to attack the Bears’ secondary. This can lead to more turnovers, fewer big plays allowed, and an overall more formidable pass defense. His confidence and leadership could catalyze the entire defensive unit.

Darnell Wright

Wright’s dominance on the line allows the Bears to establish a balanced offense. The running game might thrive with better blocking, and the quarterback—Justin Fields—can operate with more time and confidence. This synergy could translate into more wins, especially against tough defenses.

Team Outlook

If both players continue their upward trajectory, they could be instrumental in the Bears’ quest for a playoff run or even a deep postseason push. Their development mirrors the team’s broader rebuilding efforts and signifies a shift toward sustained success.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
While the prospects are promising, some challenges remain:

Consistency: Young players often face fluctuations in performance. Maintaining high levels of play and avoiding setbacks will be crucial.
Injury Risks: Injuries can derail progress. Both players need to focus on durability.
Team Dynamics: The overall team performance impacts individual development. Supporting cast, coaching, and scheme adjustments are vital.
However, the opportunities are equally significant:

Leadership Roles: As they mature, both players can assume leadership roles, guiding younger teammates.
Contract Extensions: Success could lead to lucrative contracts, providing financial security and further motivation.
Legacy Building: Their rise could be remembered as pivotal moments in Bears history, especially if they lead the team to postseason success.
Broader NFL Context
The inclusion of two Bears in PFF’s All-Breakout Team also reflects broader league trends:

Youth Movement: The NFL continues to see younger players making immediate impacts.
Analytical Emphasis: Advanced stats and grading systems like PFF influence perceptions and recognition.
Team Rebuilding: Many franchises are emphasizing drafting and developing young talent for long-term success.
For the Bears, having emerging stars recognized league-wide enhances their reputation and can attract more talent and attention.
The recognition of Jalen Johnson and Darnell Wright in Pro Football Focus’s 2025 All-Breakout Team is more than just an accolade; it’s a testament to their hard work, talent, and the promising future of the Chicago Bears. Their development signals a shift toward a more competitive and dynamic team, one capable of contending at the highest levels.

As fans and analysts watch with anticipation, these young stars embody the hope and potential that define the NFL’s future. If they continue on their current trajectories, they could become cornerstones of the Bears’ success for years to come, inspiring the next generation of players and fans alike.