The Charter: A Chicago Bears Podcast

Caleb Williams’ bold signing move and Bears’ key offseason strategies

On the latest Under Center Podcast, hosts Kenneth Davis and Josh Schrock discuss Caleb Williams finally signing his rookie deal and what caused the delay (1:12). They explore Caleb's trailblazing impact (2:44), his understanding of football business (5:12), and how NFL teams might need to adapt to quarterbacks (8:00). The hosts set expectations for Rome Odunze and the WR room (10:35), and highlighted Odunze's impressive maturity (12:24). They delved into Cole Kmet's emerging leadership (16:19) and Eddie Jackson's move to the Ravens (17:50). Plus, they discuss Caleb Williams' preseason playtime (19:00), GM Ryan Poles' defensive line plans (20:55), and break down the offensive line (26:00). Don't miss this episode packed with insights and updates on the Bears!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Inside Chicago Bears guard Teven Jenkin’s offseason with Carmen Vitali

On this episode of the Under Center Podcast, Fox Sports’ Carmen Vitali joins Kenneth Davis and Alex Shapiro to discuss her feature on Teven Jenkins. Carmen discuss why she was interested in covering Jenkins’ offseason work out and what impressed her most about the guard. They also discuss how Shane Waldron taking over as offensive coordinator has impacted Teven’s game. Later, Carmen reveals what she thinks the Bears need to do in order to move out of the basement of the NFC North. Finally, Carmen shares her thoughts on EA Sports College Football 25 and the Pac-12 folding.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bears fantasy football breakdown with NBC Sports’ Connor Rogers

On the latest Under Center Podcast, NBC Sports' NFL Draft and Fantasy Football expert Connor Rogers joins Kenneth Davis and Alex Shapiro. They dive into why Bears players can make an impact on fantasy teams, with DJ Moore and Keenan Allen leading the pack (1:07). Discover why you shouldn't overlook the Bears' tight ends (3:30) and how Caleb Williams stacks up in the fantasy quarterback tiers (6:55). Connor also weighs in on the Bears' defense (8:56) and the impact Shane Waldron will have on the offense(13:33). Who is the top fantasy player in the NFC North (18:00)? Would D'Andre Swift be a good addition to your team (20:13)? Fianally, they talk draft strategies (22:02), sleeper picks (24:48), and must-watch rookies, like Malik Nabers (27:00). Don't miss this episode packed with essential fantasy football tips!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can Matt Eberflus win Coach of the Year?

On the latest Under Center Podcast, Kenneth Davis and Alex Shapiro debate Matt Eberflus' chances of winning Coach of the Year. They discuss whether being the favorite is a good or bad sign (4:00) and why nine wins won't cut it for the award (7:00). They also explore how Eberflus could lose out to Robert Saleh or Jim Harbaugh (10:12) and if he can turn the Bears' fortunes around in close games (12:00). Plus, they look at the comparisons to Matt Nagy's 2018 season (16:00), discuss defensive play-calling challenges (20:39), and the potential impact of Montez Sweat (26:36). Can the Bears' defense drive them to success?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Behind-the-scenes of Hard Knocks, why HBO selected Bears with producer Shannon Furman

On the latest episode of the Under Center Podcast, Kenneth Davis and Alex Shapiro are joined by Shannon Furman, the supervising producer of HBO's Hard Knocks, to give an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming season featuring the Chicago Bears. Shannon shares what it's like to bring the charter franchise on board (1:00) and reveals the most exciting storylines to watch, including the WR room, the young guys, and defensive backs (2:45). She discusses how Caleb Williams' presence made the Bears a compelling choice for Hard Knocks (4:22) and her excitement about telling the story of Rome Odunze (5:20). Shannon also shares surprising moments from filming (6:20) and highlights Aaron Rodgers as a great character (8:42). Shannon dives into stories about Antonio Brown, including his memorable hot air balloon arrival at training camp (18:21), and discusses her trailblazing role for women in NFL Films (22:05). Finally, she talks about the appetite for NFL Films, the growth of NFL media, and what's next on the horizon (26:12). Don't miss this fascinating episode filled with exclusive insights and stories!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are the Bears overhyped? Playoff chances, roster changes & NFC North showdown

On the latest Under Center Podcast, Kenneth Davis and Alex Shapiro tackle ESPN's surprising analytics on the Bears' playoff chances despite a revamped roster (4:00). They break down the NFC North showdown, debating if the Bears can compete with the Lions and Packers and if the missing pass rusher could be their Achilles' heel (9:00). Plus, they dive into the challenges facing Caleb Williams and the offense, the potential running back carousel (15:00), and discuss if this is the most excitement the Bears have seen in years (28:20). Don't miss this in-depth analysis!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Caleb Williams’ NFL transition, Bears’ rare chance for greatness with Jason Lieser

On this episode of the Under Center Podcast, Jason Lieser from the Chicago Sun-Times joins Kenneth Davis, Josh Schrock, and Alex Shapiro. They discuss how to keep content flowing during the Bears' offseason and why this team is easy to write about (1:13). Jason shares what excites him most about the fast-improving Bears, focusing on the skill players over Caleb Williams (3:06). They recap highlights from minicamp including standout performances from Rome Odunze and Jaylon Johnson (8:25). Jason reflects on Caleb Williams' seamless transition to the Bears (12:42) and discusses the potential for this team to achieve something special (14:40). They also dive into the challenges facing the Bears' defense, particularly Montez Sweat (17:30), and compare offensive coordinators Luke Getsy and Shane Waldron (19:34). Finally, they turn their attention to the NFC North and discuss why it will be hard for the Bears to win the division in 2024 (21:30). Jason also shares his mixed feelings on Matt Eberflus still leading the defense (24:09).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can Caleb Williams, Bears live up to expectations with Mark Potash

In the latest Under Center Podcast, Kenneth Davis, Josh Schrock, and Alex Shapiro are joined by Mark Potash from the Chicago Sun-Times to discuss the growing excitement and optimism around the Bears’ upcoming season. The palpable enthusiasm is reminiscent of the Lovie Smith era (1:32). Mark identifies Shane Waldron’s offense as the biggest reason the Bears might not meet expectations (2:08). They delve into fair expectations for Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze, and how quickly we'll know if Caleb is the real deal (5:39). Mark draws comparisons between the 2024 Texans and this year’s Bears, highlighting why it's fair and relevant comparison (6:50). They explore why Bears players are embracing the pressure and address how Caleb Williams has quickly removed doubts about his off-field persona early on (14:57). The discussion also covers key players and position groups deserving attention from media and fans (17:51), what head coach Matt Eberflus needs to do to validate GM Ryan Poles' decision to keep him (22:14).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Debating Bears’ major offseason upgrades and key player moves

Join Kenneth Davis and Alex Shapiro on the latest Under Center Podcast as they dive into the Chicago Bears' most impactful offseason moves. They discuss DeAndre Carter joining the Bears as a WR and return specialist, bringing competition for Velus Jones (2:10). The signing of TE Marcedes Lewis and its significance is explored (5:52), followed by a comprehensive look at the top upgrades the Bears made, including D'Andre Swift and Keenan Allen (10:53). They analyze the replacement of Robert Tonyan with Gerald Everett (23:26) and Shane Waldron’s strategy to maximize Ryan Poles’ upgrades (27:11). The episode also covers Kevin Byard over Eddie Jackson (31:45), the punter change from Trenton Gill to Tory Taylor (37:04), and the Bears' bold attempt to trade up for Rome Odunze but the Atlanta Falcons passing (40:28).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Caleb Williams’ potential, Bears roster rankings with PFF’s Sam Monson

In this episode of the Under Center Podcast, Kenneth Davis and Josh Schrock are joined by Sam Monson, lead NFL analyst for Pro Football Focus, for an in-depth discussion on the Chicago Bears. Sam reveals how PFF conducts its rankings (0:25) and compares the Bears’ roster to the Packers and Lions (2:39). Sam discusses how the Bears' supporting cast could impact Caleb Williams in Year 1 (6:51), suggesting he could break every Bears single-season QB record this fall (8:15). Sam highlights his biggest concerns about the Bears’ defense (15:41), evaluates their offensive line (19:24) and offers his take on what's a realistic way to judge Caleb Williams during his rookie season (22:45). Don’t miss this comprehensive breakdown of the Bears’ roster!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.