Bears' return path to playoffs features NFL's toughest schedule
By Courtney Cronin
Published on May 14, 2026.
The Chicago Bears' path to the playoffs will become more difficult in 2026, with their 17-game schedule based on their opponents' 2025 records. Eight of the team's games will be against playoff teams, including Buffalo, Carolina, Green Bay, Jacksonville, New England, Philadelphia and Seattle. The Bears had the toughest strength of schedule last season and the lowest odds to win the NFC North, but managed to secure an 11-win season. The last team to win a playoff game started with the toughest schedule was the 2016 Falcons. The NFL's full schedule will be released on Thursday evening.
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