NFL Picks Bears as Next HBO 'Hard Knocks' Team


If there wasn't enough attention on the Chicago Bears heading into the 2024 NFL season, HBO cameras will head to the Bears' training camp after they were chosen as the next “Hard Knocks” team.

NFL and NFL Films picked up the New York Jets last season because their hype train was in full force with Aaron Rodgers joining the team via trade.

The Bears find themselves in a similar situation this season after general manager Ryan Poles made the obvious choice of Caleb Williams at No. 1 overall to begin a new era at quarterback.

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Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears participates in the Chicago Bears rookie minicamp at Halas Hall on May 11, 2024, in Lake Forest, Illinois. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

The Poles have given Williams plenty to work with. He selected catcher Rome Odunze No. 9 overall and signed veteran Keenan Allen to partner DJ Moore.

At tight end, Cole Kmet remains and D'Andre Swift is the newest running back.

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On defense, the Poles were also proactive in keeping key players in place, including cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who earned a lucrative contract extension. The Bears also added veteran safety Kevin Byard II, an All-Pro who fills a position of need.

The Poles previously traded for defensive end Montez Sweat midway through the 2023 season and gave him an extension in the process. Sweat acclimated quickly with the Bears, totaling six sacks in 10 games.

Roma Odunze looks on the field

Rome Odunze of the Chicago Bears during the Chicago Bears rookie minicamp at Halas Hall on May 11, 2024, in Lake Forest, Illinois. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

After a 3-14 season two years ago, the Bears showed they were on the right track with an improved 7-10 record. They acquired the first overall pick in a trade with the Carolina Panthers in 2023, so the Panthers could take Alabama's Bryce Young first overall.

With an improved roster, the Poles made the decision to trade their quarterback, Justin Fields, to the Pittsburgh Steelers to clear the way for Williams.

“Hard Knocks” will take an inside look at Williams' first experience in the NFL, especially in joint practices and preseason games when facing different defenses.

Williams' personality has been one of calm and confidence throughout the draft process, and his time at USC showed how competitive he is. The Heisman Trophy winner understands the expectations of being the No. 1 pick in the draft.

Caleb Williams runs on the field

Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears during the Chicago Bears rookie minicamp at Halas Hall on May 11, 2024, in Lake Forest, Illinois. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

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Bears fans desperately hope Williams is the truth, and the entire football world will make their judgments early on based on what they see on “Hard Knocks” this summer.

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