Phil Thompson

Phil Thompson is the Bears beat reporter for the Tribune and has covered many of Chicago's teams throughout his career, including the Blackhawks for 6 years.

New Bears wide receiver/kick returner Kalif Raymond speaks at Halas Hall on March 12, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)

Return of the returner? Kalif Raymond hopes a reunion with Chicago Bears coaches sparks a revival.

March 24, 2026 at 6:00 a.m.

Kalif Raymond plans to bring an “aggressive” approach to Chicago Bears special teams: “There’s just so much history here.”

Bears running back Travis Homer runs onto the field before a game against the Giants on Nov. 9, 2025, at Soldier Field. (Dominic Di Palermo/Chicago Tribune)

Tracking the Chicago Bears in NFL free agency: Special teamer Travis Homer signing with Pittsburgh Steelers

March 23, 2026 at 11:04 a.m.

It's the busiest week on the NFL’s offseason calendar. Here’s the latest Chicago Bears news in free agency.

New Bears linebacker Devin Bush speaks at Halas Hall on March 12, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)

3 things we learned from Chicago Bears free agency, including how Dennis Allen’s defense got faster

March 20, 2026 at 6:00 a.m.

The Chicago Bears prioritized speed and athleticism on defense. Here’s what else stood out about their free-agent additions.

Bears general manager Ryan Poles speaks about the team's new players Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Halas Hall. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)

Column: GM Ryan Poles’ lack of a big swing in free agency could pay dividends for Chicago Bears down the road

March 16, 2026 at 6:00 a.m.

Despite some painful personnel choices, Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles showed restraint and maturation that could pay off in the long run.

Raiders quarterback Geno Smith is hit by Browns linebacker Devin Bush on Nov. 23, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

How well have the Chicago Bears addressed their needs? 5 pressing questions after the 1st wave of free agency.

March 12, 2026 at 6:00 a.m.

The Chicago Bears shuffled their roster through several signings, trades and departures. As the dust settles, did they come out ahead or behind?

Patriots center Garrett Bradbury prepares to snap the ball during Super Bowl LX against the Seahawks on Feb. 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, Calif. (Julio Cortez/AP)

Chicago Bears to acquire center Garrett Bradbury from New England Patriots for 2027 5th-round pick, per report

March 6, 2026 at 7:42 p.m.

The Chicago Bears on Friday addressed their need for a center after Drew Dalman's unexpected retirement by trading for veteran Garrett Bradbury.

Ohio State's Kayden McDonald speaks to the media during the NFL combine Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026, in Indianapolis. (Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

3 things to know about 3 defensive linemen on the Chicago Bears’ radar at the NFL combine

February 26, 2026 at 10:49 a.m.

The Chicago Bears brain trust is targeting speed among the defensive line candidates in the NFL draft. Who among the top prospects has it?

Bears wide receiver DJ Moore makes the game-winning touchdown catch in overtime against the Packers on Dec. 20, 2025, at Soldier Field. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)

What we learned from the Chicago Bears at NFL combine, including Ryan Poles’ thoughts on DJ Moore’s future

February 25, 2026 at 6:00 a.m.

Asked if DJ Moore is part of the Chicago Bears' plans in 2026, GM Ryan Poles provided a sober, nuanced answer that was far from a definitive yes.

Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham, left, and general manager Ryan Poles walk the field before the team faced the Ravens on Oct. 26, 2025, in Baltimore. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

Chicago Bears may be in line for compensatory draft picks, GMs Ryan Poles and Ian Cunningham say

February 24, 2026 at 5:21 p.m.

Ian Cunningham indicated he believes the Chicago Bears are due compensation for his hiring as the Atlanta Falcons general manager.

Notre Dame quarterback Sam Hartman passes the ball while pressured by Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023, in Clemson, S.C. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman, File)

NFL combine: Looking at the Chicago Bears’ positions of need — and the prospects who could fill them

February 23, 2026 at 6:00 a.m.

The Chicago Bears head to the NFL scouting combine with a focus on five positions: edge rusher, defensive tackle, left tackle, safety and linebacker.

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