Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast

312 Sports

When it comes to Chicago Bears talk, Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola have been setting the agenda for decades. Now, they’re bringing that same unflinching insight — and Sunday-afternoon passion — to Forward Progress. From breaking down Bears game plans with analytical precision to unleashing the raw emotion every fan feels when the season’s on the line, Dan and Matt deliver the perfect balance of expertise and authenticity. It’s a show that lives and breathes the Bears, while never shying away from the bigger NFL picture. Whether you’re a diehard or just love the ride, Forward Progress is where Chicago’s football conversation starts.

Play

Open in

79 episodes
daily
Avg 44 min
English

Episodes 79

Newest Oldest Longest

All19 Unplayed19 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

August 14 · 45 min
One Night Only: The Kevin Warren and George McCaskey Contradiction Tour
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down Kevin Warren and George McCaskey's latest Bears stadium press conference, a spectacle that generated plenty of headlines but offered very few answers. 0:00 Bears - Browns 12:00 George and Kevin 20:00 Fan Base 27:00 QB Traits The guys examine the mixed messages, contradictions, and lingering questions surrounding the Bears' ongoing stadium saga. Plus, Dan and Matt preview this weekend's Bears-Browns preseason matchup and each select a player they'll be watching closely. They also discuss which NFL fan base is entering the season with the most optimism and put Caleb Williams under the microscope, comparing him to other NFL quarterbacks across a variety of key traits to see where the Bears' franchise quarterback stacks up. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 13 · 46 min
REACTION: Chicago Bears' Kevin Warren and George McCaskey Meet the Media
Chicago Bears president and CEO Kevin Warren and chairman George McCaskey met with the media today at Halas Hall, and the biggest topic was once again the future of the Bears' stadium. Warren made it clear that the Bears' “sole focus” is currently on Hammond, Indiana, where the organization continues its due diligence on potential stadium sites. The Bears have completed their evaluation of the Lost Marsh site and are now studying the Wolf Lake Terminal area, while still keeping communication open with Illinois. But despite all the speculation heading into today's press conference, there was no major announcement or finalized stadium deal. Warren also declined to provide a timeline for the next steps, saying the organization wants to take its time and get the decision right. Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down everything Warren and McCaskey had to say, what today's comments mean for Arlington Heights, whether the Bears are truly headed for Indiana, and what this ongoing stadium saga says about the direction of the organization. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 12 · 57 min
Chicago Bears: Coby Bryant is OUT 4-6 Months
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest Bears injury news as safety Coby Bryant undergoes knee surgery and faces a recovery timeline of four to six months. 0:00 Coby Bryant 12:00 Dan Pompei 23:30 Matt Hasselbeck 32:00 Rookie Purchases They also discuss Dan Pompei’s recent Athletic profile on Bears head coach Ben Johnson, examine former NFL quarterback Matt Hasselbeck’s efforts to advance research and find answers surrounding CTE in football, and react to ESPN’s entertaining feature in which NFL rookies reveal what they purchased with their signing bonus money. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 11 · 40 min
Chicago Bears: Keeping the Indiana Leverage Act Alive
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola start the show with breaking NFL news before turning their attention to the latest chapter in the Bears' stadium saga. 0:00 NFL Breaking News 5:00 Stadium 17:00 Preseason Injuries 29:00 NFL News & Notes As Bears chairman George McCaskey says he and team president Kevin Warren will have more to say in the coming days, the guys examine the organization's continued threat to move to Indiana and whether it's anything more than a negotiating tactic in the ongoing stadium debate. Later, Dan and Matt break down the growing impact of preseason injuries across the NFL, analyzing how losses at each position can affect teams heading into the regular season. They wrap up the podcast with the latest NFL news, notes, and storylines from around the league. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 10 · 43 min
Luther Burden to Miss the Preseason with Groin Injury
As Bears training camp rolls on, Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola continue to track the team's biggest storyline: injuries. Today's focus is receiver Luther Burden, who is expected to miss the remainder of the preseason with a groin injury, according to multiple reports. While the news is a setback, Burden is still expected to be ready for the Bears' Week 1 matchup against the Carolina Panthers. The guys also dive into the latest Kyle Shanahan story and continue monitoring Vikings training camp, where questions remain about what's going on with head coach Kevin O'Connell and the situation unfolding in Minnesota. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 7 · 43 min
Chicago Bears: Injuries Keep Piling Up in the Secondary
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola take a deep dive into the injuries that have plagued Bears cornerback Kyler Gordon since the start of last season and explain why they believe one conclusion is becoming increasingly likely: he won't be ready for Week 1. With injuries continuing to pile up in the secondary, the pressure on Chicago's front seven to generate a pass rush has never been greater. Plus, Dan and Matt take a spin around the NFL, breaking down the latest news and notes from across the league, including the return of actual football (sort of) on TV. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 6 · 48 min
What Does Ben Johnson's Coby Bryant Update Really Mean?
As Bears training camp rolls on, Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola bring the latest updates from Halas Hall after a rough day on the injury front, with more players leaving practice early. 0:00 More Injuries 24:30 ESPN - Bill Barnwell / HOF 29:30 NFL News & Notes Head coach Ben Johnson addressed concerns surrounding the timeline for the Coby Bryant injury, saying the team is still gathering information and even questioned where the reported 8–10-week recovery estimate originated. Could that mean the absence will be shorter than expected, or even longer? Plus, the guys debate which current or former Bear is most likely to be the next inductee into the Pro Football Hall of Fame before wrapping up with all the latest news and notes from around the NFL. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 5 · 41 min
Chicago Bears Extend Darnell Wright: Former First-Round Pick Lands Historic New Deal
After another eventful day at Bears training camp, Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola react to the latest developments surrounding the team, including the impact of the Coby Bryant injury. 0:00 Darnell Wright 4:00 Marlen Sewell 14:30 Dennis Allen 24:00 Giants Camp - Dart The guys break down Darnell Wright's massive four-year contract extension, which makes the Bears right tackle one of the highest-paid offensive linemen in NFL history and includes a record-setting amount of guaranteed money. They also discuss the Bears signing former Vanderbilt safety Marlen Sewell to bolster depth in the secondary and examine whether Dillon Thieneman is emerging as a leader in the defensive backfield. Plus, hear Dennis Allen's comments on moving forward without Bryant and his message to players looking to seize new opportunities. To wrap things up, Dan and Matt take a look around the league and discuss why Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart caused a stir at camp. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 4 · 38 min
Coby Bryant's Injury Puts Bears Defensive Depth Under Pressure
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the impact of Coby Bryant's injury and what it means for the Bears' secondary. 0:00 Aftermath of Bryant Injury 24:30 Who has the Most to Prove? 31:00 News and Notes His absence puts added pressure on Cam Lewis and rookie safety Dillon Thieneman, while the situation is made even tougher by Kyler Gordon's continued absence due to soft-tissue injuries. The guys also discuss the Bears' first training camp fight, complete with photographic evidence courtesy of Patrick Finley. Plus, which Bears players have the most to prove heading into the season? They wrap up the show with the latest NFL news and notes from around the league. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 3 · 31 min
BREAKING: Coby Bryant Leaves Practice with a leg INJURY
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest news from Bears training camp after the team held its first padded practice of the summer. The excitement was quickly overshadowed when top free agent addition Coby Bryant was carted off the field with an apparent knee injury. What does it mean for the Bears moving forward? Tune in for the latest analysis and reaction. New episodes of Forward Progress drop Monday through Friday at 1 p.m. CT. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 31 · 45 min
Kiran Amegadjie Getting Reacquainted to Ryan Poles with First Team Reps
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola bring you the latest from Chicago Bears training camp as third-year offensive lineman Kiran Amegadjie surprisingly earns the majority of first-team reps, despite nearly being an afterthought during Ryan Poles' introductory camp press conference. 0:00 Training Camp Reps 7:00 Press Taylor on the Offense 8:30 Liam Coen / Ben Johnson 17:30 ESPN Training Camp Stars The guys break down offensive coordinator Press Taylor's encouraging assessment of the Bears offense and why Ben Johnson's straightforward leadership style stands out in an NFL landscape full of slogans and catchphrases. Plus, they discuss Johnson's candid comments about the challenges of defending a division title and look back at Bears history to ask: Which player saw the biggest rise in stock during a preseason training camp? #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make tonight a Giordano’s night at https://giordanos.com/ or visit your local Giordano’s restaurant today. Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 30 · 36 min
The Next Evolution of Caleb Williams
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola react to Caleb Williams' opening training camp media session as the Bears' young quarterback makes it clear he's ready to take the next step in his development. 0:00 Caleb 15:00 Press Taylor 16:00 Rome Odunze 18:00 Defense Williams even joked that he's starting to sound like a coach when addressing his teammates, a sign of his growing confidence and leadership. With expectations rising in Chicago, the Bears will only go as far as their franchise QB can take them. The guys also discuss offensive coordinator Press Taylor echoing a point Dan made about Ben Johnson, Rome Odunze clarifying his recent comments about his foot and adapting to his "new normal," and who stepped in at nickelback while Kyler Gordon remains on the PUP list. Plus, the latest takeaways from Bears training camp as preparations for the 2026 season ramp up. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 29 · 46 min
What Ryan Poles' Comments Tell Us About Kyler Gordon
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the Bears’ first training camp press conferences, as Ryan Poles and Ben Johnson officially kick off a pivotal season in Chicago. 0:00 Bears 35:30 Kyle Shanahan 43:50 Starting QBs They discuss the biggest takeaways from both leaders, what stood out most, and what it could mean for the Bears’ outlook in 2026. The guys also revisit the bizarre Kyle Shanahan accident story as new details emerge. Instead of providing clarity, the latest developments only make the situation more confusing and raise even more questions. Plus, ESPN’s Dan Graziano takes a closer look at some of the NFL’s most intriguing quarterback situations. Dan and Matt react to his projections for the Falcons, Raiders, Browns, and Vikings and discuss who they believe should be under center when the season begins. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 28 · 40 min
New Questions Surround Kyle Shanahan's Accident
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the biggest NFL stories of the day, including the strange and increasingly controversial situation involving 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan. New details have emerged regarding Shanahan's serious car accident, with reports indicating he was holding a cell phone at the time of the crash. Although investigators determined Shanahan was not at fault and neither driver was cited, questions remain: Why did news of the incident not surface for 11 days? 0:00 Kyle Shanahan 13:00 Bowen - ESPN Impact Moves 19:00 Madden 27 Game Ratings 35:00 Coaching Hot Seat The guys examine the latest developments and discuss why the timing continues to raise eyebrows around the league. Plus, ESPN's Matt Bowen released his list of the Top 50 Impact Moves of the NFL offseason. Did any Bears additions make the cut, and where do Chicago's biggest moves stack up against the rest of the league? And finally, Madden 27 has unveiled its exclusive 99 Club. Which six players earned the game's highest rating, and who was left on the outside looking in? Dan and Matt also debate which NFL head coach is most likely to be the first fired during the 2026 season. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 27 · 38 min
Chicago Bears Injury Concerns & the Strange Kyle Shanahan Story
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola dive into the curious story surrounding 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and why details of his car accident remained under wraps for 11 days. 0:00 Bears 6:40 Pavia 12:45 Kyle Shanahan 26:00 NFL News and Notes They also break down the Bears' growing injury concerns as training camp gets underway, including the disappointing news that cornerback Kyler Gordon landed on the PUP list, along with defensive lineman Shemar Turner, who was expected to bolster the Bears' front seven. Plus, Diego Pavia's release by the Ravens has the guys wondering if there must be more to the story. They wrap up the show with the latest NFL news, notes, and training camp buzz from around the league. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 24 · 36 min
ESPN'S Kalyn Kahler on Rooney Rule, looming Dianna Russini + Mike Vrabel saga, and Bears/Packers rivalry headed into 2026 season
ESPN's Kalyn Kahler joins the podcast to break down her latest reporting on the Rooney Rule, including what she learned, why the policy continues to generate debate across the NFL, and what it could mean moving forward. We also discuss the lingering effects of the Dianna Russini reporting surrounding Mike Vrabel as he heads into the 2026 season, how those storylines could shape expectations, and what to watch as the season approaches. Plus, we dive into one of the NFL's most intriguing coaching rivalries: Ben Johnson vs. Matt LaFleur. Is this becoming the NFC North's next great chess match? We examine the personalities, schemes, and stakes as the rivalry continues to grow. Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 23 · 38 min
ESPN's Courtney Cronin on the BIG PICTURE entering Chicago Bears training camp
ESPN's Courtney Cronin joins Dan Bernstein to break down the biggest storylines surrounding the Chicago Bears as they head into training camp. We dive into the expectations for Caleb Williams entering Year 2, Ben Johnson's impact as head coach, the development of the revamped offense, key position battles, and what needs to happen for the Bears to take the next step in 2026. Courtney also shares insights from her reporting on the team, the players to watch throughout camp, and the biggest questions that will define Chicago's season. Whether you're looking for training camp predictions, roster analysis, or the latest Bears intel, this episode has you covered. Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 22 · 34 min
What Ben Johnson Must Improve in Year 2
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola discuss all things Chicago Bears on Forward Progress. On today's episode, the guys break down a critical area of Ben Johnson's offense that must improve in Year 2 if the Bears are going to repeat as NFC North champions and make another playoff run. 0:00 Red Zone Offense 12:00 ESPN Under 25 18:00 NFL News and Notes They also react to ESPN's latest rankings of NFL teams based on players under 25 years old and examine where the Bears stack up against the rest of the league. To wrap up the show, Dan and Matt go around the NFL with the latest news, notes, and storylines from across the league. New episodes of Forward Progress drop Monday through Friday at 1 p.m. CT. 🐻⬇️ #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 21 · 44 min
Will Logan Jones Win the Chicago Bears Center Battle before Week One?
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola are here to help you survive the NFL offseason doldrums. 0:00 Logan Jones 15:00 Cam Skattebo 19:45 Bears Assistant Coach 26:50 Caleb's over/under 28:00 Fast Food On today’s show, the guys break down Ben Solak’s latest ESPN article and discuss the five NFL rookies who could make the biggest impact this season. They also follow up on the viral Cam Skattebo backflip story and react to The Athletics’ list of assistant coaches poised for breakout years—does a Bears assistant make the cut? Plus, Dan and Matt look at over/under expectations for Caleb Williams in 2026 and wrap things up with a look at the top 10 highest-grossing fast-food chains of 2025. Football, Bears talk, and fast food. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports #calebwilliams #sportstalk Make sure to subscribe to... ✅ Dan Bernstein Unfiltered ✅ Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast 🏈 ✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀 All links to YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more available on 312Sports.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Showing 61–79 of 79 episodes