Frequently Asked Questions
Have the Chicago Bears ever gone from worst to first in the NFC North?
Yes, the Bears finished dead last in the NFC North with a 5-11 record in 2004, then turned around and won the division with 11 wins in 2005. It was Lovie Smith's first year as head coach when they hit rock bottom.
Who was the Bears' starting quarterback when they went from worst to first in 2005?
Rookie Kyle Orton led the way after Rex Grossman suffered a preseason ankle injury. Orton finished 10-5 as a starter, threw for 1,869 yards, and went on to finish 21-12 overall as a Bears starter.
What pick did the Bears have in the 2005 NFL Draft and who did they select?
Chicago held the fourth overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft and used it on running back Cedric Benson. They also grabbed wide receiver Mark Bradley in the second round and Kyle Orton in the fourth round.
How did the 2005 Bears defense compare to the current Bears defense?
Both versions feature two stud inside linebackers, with Urlacher and Briggs mirroring Danny Trevathan and Jerrell Freeman, plus dominant defensive linemen. The 2005 defense finished second in total defense and won eight games where the offense scored fewer than 20 points.
What was the Bears' offensive strategy when they went from worst to first in 2005?
Chicago relied heavily on a strong running game led by Thomas Jones while Orton managed games and protected the football. That same run-first approach is mirrored by the current Bears with Jordan Howard leading the backfield.