Chicago Bears need these veterans to step up in playoffs

Bears defensive end Montez Sweat (98) and safety Kevin Byard III celebrate after Byard intercepted a pass in the fourth quarter against the Lions on Jan. 4, 2026, at Soldier Field. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)

By Sean Hammond | shammond@chicagotribune.com | Chicago Tribune

PUBLISHED: January 9, 2026 at 6:00 AM CST

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The Chicago Bears are short on playoff experience, but they have veterans they can lean on. They need their premier players to step up in the postseason.

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Short on postseason experience, Chicago Bears need these key — and high-paid — veterans to deliver

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