The Charter: A Chicago Bears Podcast

With the 10th overall pick the Chicago Bears select...

Ruthie Polinsky, Clay Harbor, and Alex Shapiro narrow down our bracket for the Bears 10th overall selection. With all the additions in free agency, the Bears have opened up paths to multiple options. Tune in to the latest episode of The Charter podcast and see who will be crowned the champion!

Chicago Bears' 10th Pick Bracket Challenge

In this episode of the Charter Podcast, we dive into a March Madness-style bracket challenge to predict the Chicago Bears' 10th overall draft pick. Ruthie Polinsky, joined by Clay Harbor and Alex Shapiro, debates the top 16 prospects, weighing team needs against player talent. From offensive line battles to the intriguing potential of a dual-threat tight end, we analyze key matchups and break down the strengths and weaknesses of each player. Will the Bears prioritize defense or offense?  Find out as we navigate through the first round of our draft bracket, setting the stage for the Elite Eight in our next episode. 

New Bears' additions already impacting Halas Hall culture

Join Ruthie Polinsky, Clay Harbor, and Alex Shapiro as they recap an revitalizing day at Halas Hall! On this episode we react to the introductory press conference of the Chicago Bears' recent free agency signings  Grady Jarrett, Joe Thuney, and Jonah Jackson.  Hear our firsthand impressions of Ryan Poles and Ben Johnson's pressers, revealing a clear vision for the team's future. We analyze Ben Johnson's coaching philosophy, the impact of these key signings on the offensive and defensive lines, and how these moves shape the Bears' draft strategy. Discover the unique personalities and leadership qualities of each player, and how their presence will elevate Chicago's team culture.  Plus, we explore the improved organizational clarity under Ryan Poles and Kevin Warren, setting the stage for a potentially franchise-changing season.

Bears make WAVES to kickoff NFL free agent negotiation period

On the latest edition of The Charter Podcast, we dive deep into the Chicago Bears' explosive start to free agency! Ruthie Polinsky, Alex Shapiro, and Clay Harbor break down the signings of Drew Dalman, Dayo Odeyingbo, and Grady Jarrett, analyzing how these additions completely reshape the Bears' offensive and defensive lines. We discuss the implications of these signings for quarterback Caleb Williams and the team's overall strategy heading into the NFL draft. Plus, we offer insights into the leadership and team dynamics these new players will bring, and take a look at other significant moves around the league, including the Commanders' blockbuster acquisition and the shake-ups in Seattle and Las Vegas.  Don't miss this in-depth analysis of one of the most impactful free agency periods in recent Bears history!

Sports Illustrated's Matt Verderame explains how the Bears landed two key O-linemen

On the latest Charter Podcast, Ruthie, Alex, and Clay break down the Chicago Bears' huge offensive line additions of Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, with insights from Sports Illustrated's Matt Verderame. We get the national perspective on the Bears' offseason moves, the Caleb Williams/Ben Johnson pairing, and the impact on the upcoming NFL draft. Plus, we discuss the wide receiver market and speculate on Aaron Rodgers' future team.

And The 2025 NFL Combine Award Goes To...

This week on the Charter Podcast, we're breaking down the 2025 NFL Combine! Ruthie Polinsky, Clay Harbor, and Alex Shapiro hand out awards for standout performances, surprises, and players that shot up draft boards. We discuss impressive athleticism, leadership qualities, and evaluate top draft prospects. Check out our award for best defensive and offensive linemen, and how the combine might change draft strategies for teams. Get ready for an in-depth look at the most head turning moments from this year's combine!

Ryan Poles & Ben Johnson Reveal Offseason Plans from the NFL Combine

Join Alex Shapiro and Clay Harbor for a new edition of The Charter Podcast. The guys bring you their takeaways from Ryan Poles and Ben Johnson's media availability yesterday. We break down Poles' assessment of Ben Johnson's football IQ, his approach to free agency, and his plans to improve the Bears' roster. We also explore Johnson's vision for the offense, his excitement about working with Caleb Williams, and his strategy for rebuilding the offensive line. The guys discuss key personnel moves, including the releases of Gerald Everett and DeMarcus Walker. 

Preparing for the NFL Draft Combine

Ruthie Polinsky and Alex Shapiro are back along with Clay Harbor as they prepare for the Bears' annual migration to Indianapolis got the NFL Draft Combine. Clay brings us an inside look at the process for the draft hopefuls. Everything from the intense process it takes to be fit both physically and mentally and the real impact that comes from a prospect's performance. We then get into the Bears' new approach after adjusting to Ben Johnson's system needs.

The $280M question: How Will the Bears Spend BIG?

Ruthie Polinsky, Alex Shapiro, and Clay Harbor are back on The Charter podcast and with the NFL Combine and free agency on the horizon, we discuss the massive salary cap increase and its implications for the Bears, who are already sitting pretty with top-five cap space. We debate whether this means bigger paydays for individual stars or a broader distribution of wealth across the roster. Plus, we analyze the potential departure of Ian Cunningham to Jacksonville and what that could mean for the Bears in terms of compensatory picks and the overall team dynamic. Then, we lay out our dream scenarios for the Bears' off-season and covering key positions like center. Finally, we dream of a potential blockbuster return of a familiar face... or maybe not?

Player Perspective: The NFL Offseason

Alex Shapiro is joined by Clay Harbor for an inside look at what the NFL offseason looks like! On this episode of The Charter Podcast, Clay shares his insight on draft prep, the rookie wall, navigating free agency, and the importance of offseason training. He highlights the balance between recovery, rigorous training, and personal time.