NFL Preseason Power Rankings, Week 1: Bears are relevant again

There’s a lot of buzz around the Chicago Bears this preseason. Hard Knocks kicks off Tuesday night, and with Caleb Williams set to make his NFL debut on Saturday in Week 1’s preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, that buzz will only grow louder.

But it’s not just the star power that’s increased the Bears’ popularity. There’s confidence in the roster, too. Chicago is a legitimate playoff contender in 2024, and we’re beginning to see that sentiment come through in preseason NFL power rankings.

Check out FOX Sports’ latest preseason power rankings that were shared on X (formerly Twitter):

Your 2024 Preseason Power Rankings pic.twitter.com/tn4jZFXHwR

— NFL on FOX Podcast (@NFLonFOXPod) August 2, 2024

The Chicago Bears rank 16th (they’re the 8th-highest-ranked NFC team). With 14 teams qualifying for the post-season (seven per conference), FOX Sports is basically suggesting that the Bears are right there, Chicago is absolutely “in the hunt” as the 2024 season kicks off.

But it’s not all good news for Chicago Bears fans. These same NFL power rankings have the Detroit Lions (No. 3) and Green Bay Packers (No. 6) ranked ahead of the Bears. It’s a frustrating reality. Right when Chicago seems to be turning the corner, they happen to play in one of the NFL’s toughest divisions.

MORE: Is a position change coming for Bears WR Velus Jones Jr.?

Regardless of how difficult a division or conference is, a team’s fate always comes down to their quarterback. Finally, after a century of searching for one, the Chicago Bears have “their guy” in Caleb Williams, and he’s the main reason why there’s so much hype around this team.

Williams and the rest of the Bears starters will make their preseason debut on Saturday, Aug. 10, against the Buffalo Bills.