Chicago Bears players reflect on roller-coaster ride of a season

Bears running back Kyle Monangai, left, and safety Jaquan Brisker say goodbye in the locker room Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, at Halas Hall after the season ended with a loss to the Rams in an NFC divisional playoff game. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

By Phil Thompson | plthompson@chicagotribune.com | Chicago Tribune

PUBLISHED: January 19, 2026 at 6:37 PM CST

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As Chicago Bears players cleaned out their lockers, they felt a mix of sadness, frustration and appreciation.

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