Shows / Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
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…
Episodes
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
NFL Weighs In: Breaking Down Roger Goodell’s Bears Stadium Comments
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola dive into the latest update from Roger Goodell and the league office on the Chicago Bears’ stadium situation — but there’s a…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Kevin Warren’s Stadium Strategy… or lack thereof
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest surrounding the Chicago Bears’ stadium project and why Kevin Warren’s handling of the situation has…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Unity: From Crosstown Rivalry to “Green Bay Sucks!”
While Cubs and White Sox fans may never agree on baseball, one thing is certain: both sides of the city can rally behind the Bears. And nothing screams…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Did the NFL Just Help the Chicago Bears Compete?!
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the Chicago Bears’ 2026 schedule and ask the big question: 👉 Did the NFL quietly help the Bears… or is it just…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears 2026 SCHEDULE
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola share live and immediate reaction to the release of the Chicago Bears 2026 schedule See Privacy Policy at…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears schedule leaks are HERE
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the buzz ahead of the official NFL schedule release, diving into leaked and rumored matchups for the Chicago Bears…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears won't play in Spain, Germany, or Hammond in 2026
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest Brad Biggs mailbag from the Chicago Tribune — and one response about the Bears’ defensive line raises…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears: roster signings and schedule release
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola discuss the newest Bears signings. Special episode of Forward Progress LIVE - Thursday night 7pm with the release of the NFL…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Dennis Allen's comments raise more questions than answer
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down comments from Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen at rookie minicamp, where Allen took responsibility for a…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Mike Vrabel - Diana Russini and the Julio Jones Trade
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest developments surrounding the Mike Vrabel–Dianna Russini alleged relationship controversy and the…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
The Mike Vrabel and Diana Russini boat ride - True Love or Media Storm?
Online chatter is buzzing after reports surfaced about a private boat ride involving Mike Vrabel and NFL insider Diana Russini — and Dan Bernstein and Matt…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
The Chicago Bears starter most at risk from a rookie
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola analyze the 10 areas to watch for the Chicago Bears, based on insights from Tribune beat reporter Brad Biggs. 0:00 Chicago…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Sam Roush’s NFL Roots, a D-Line Reset & the Latest from Springfield
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest developments in the Illinois legislature surrounding a potential new stadium deal. 0:00 Introduction…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Diego Pavia - a stretch to make the Ravens roster | Chicago Bears steal of the draft
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola breakdown ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller’s biggest steals of the 2026 NFL Draft, and the **Chicago Bears defense dominates…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears Depth Chart: What Did We Learn?
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the Chicago Bears depth chart now that the draft is complete and most free agents are off the board. Why do so…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
How Protected is Mike Vrabel?
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola dive deep into the powerful relationship between Robert Kraft, Mike Vrabel, and the NFL itself. How much political capital…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears UDFA List and the latest Stadium News for Arlington Heights
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola break down the latest comments from Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and what they mean for the Chicago Bears’ proposed new…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Mike Vrabel. An airport. A shopping bag. And a whole lot of speculation.
After a reported one‑day counseling session and swirling online rumors, Mike Vrabel was spotted browsing at the airport—and the internet immediately started…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
The Chicago Bears Draft Recap - SPECIAL EPISODE with player-by-player analysis
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola recap the selections made by the Chicago Bears in the 2026 NFL Draft. #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Mike Vrabel should be fired
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola continue their discussion surrounding the Mike Vrabel–Dianna Russini storyline and the broader questions it raises around…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Did Ryan Poles believe what he said?
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola discuss comments made by Ryan Poles after the selection of Dillon Thieneman in the first-round of the NFL Draft…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
The Chicago Bears drafted Dillon Thieneman
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola react to the Chicago Bears 25th pick in the 2026 NFL draft - Dillon Thieneman #chicagobears #bears #chicago #chicagosports…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
New Photos Surface of Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini from 2020
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola discuss the latest on the Mike Vrabel - Dianna Russini story as new photos surface from March 2020. The Illinois House passed…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Which defensive player fits best for Dennis Allen & the Chicago Bears in the NFL Draft?
If the Chicago Bears are going to take the next step defensively, this NFL Draft is all about finding the right fit — not just the biggest name. With Dennis…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Caleb Williams speaks + Chicago Bears stadium update that is nearing the END GAME
Caleb Williams is back at Halas Hall and already sounding like a quarterback ready to take the next step. The Bears officially kicked off their offseason…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Former NFL player Clay Harbor on the NFL Draft strategy and more for the Chicago Bears plus perspective on Dianna Russini + Mike Vrabel scandal
Former NFL tight end and Chicagoland native Clay Harbor joins the podcast to break down everything you need to know about the Chicago Bears heading into the…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Dianna Russini Controversy Grows as USA Today Reporter, Crissy Froyd, Is Fired
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola continue breaking down the collateral damage from the Dianna Russini–Mike Vrabel story, including the firing of USA Today…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
The Chicago Bears need to address this position in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft
The Chicago Bears have several areas on the roster to address with this year's draft but there are two positions that Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola believe…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Russini's Exit: Reading Between the Lines
Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola open the show by reacting to Dianna Russini’s public resignation letter from The Athletic, which struck many as unusually…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Should the Chicago Bears move up in the draft?
On today’s episode of Forward Progress, Dan and Matt kick things off with a Chicago Bears stadium update and what it could mean for the team moving forward…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
The Russini-Vrabel mess isn't going away
On this episode of Forward Progress, Dan and Matt follow up on the ongoing NFL story involving reporter Dianna Russini and Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, as…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
What in the Wide Wide World of Sports is going on here?
On today’s episode of Forward Progress, the show somehow ends before it even begins. It’s Friday, and Matt and Dan appear to have gone completely off the rails…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Should the Chicago Bears call about Dexter Lawrence?
On today’s episode of Forward Progress, Matt and Dan break down the reported trade request from New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. Should Ryan…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Mike Vrabel and Diana Russini drama is not what the NFL needs
On this episode of Forward Progress, Matt and Dan react to a Page Six story from the New York Post that the NFL neither wants nor needs. 0:00 Mike Vrabel 17:00…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
The Chicago Bears aren't going to Hammond
On this episode of Forward Progress, Matt and Dan continue their deep dive into the Chicago Bears’ stadium saga following comments from George McCaskey about…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Caleb Williams needs a new nickname.
On today’s episode of Forward Progress, Matt and Dan dig into the ongoing saga surrounding Caleb Williams and his attempt to trademark the image and nickname…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears DENIED in final appeal for Comp Picks
0:00 Bears comp picks 8:40 AH property 22:10 Bears draft picks 25:00 Todd Monken The NFL has officially ruled on the Bears’ compensatory pick situation…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
The Chicago Bears want their draft picks for Ian Cunningham
0:00 George McCaskey audio 12:10 Bears comp picks 18:10 Kirk Cousins 29:00 Kyle Brandt After the NFL informed the Chicago Bears that they would not receive any…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Goodell pushes Chicago Bears on stadium solution | NFL Rule Changes
0:00 Goodell - Soldier Field 6:45 The Rooney Rule 10:15 NFL rules changes 18:25 Cam Skattebo 21:20 NFL Head Coaches photo Roger Goodell weighed in this week on…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Ryan Poles sets the tone: the Defense that will define the Bears
0:00 Ben Johnson 6:30 Ryan Poles 15:30 NFL Notebook 29:35 Iceman As Ben Johnson’s rookie season as head coach delivers early success, the big question heading…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Ben Johnson - "uncertainty" at left tackle | What's wrong with Kevin O'Connell? New Mock Drafts
0:00 Ben Johnson 10:22 AJ Brown 13:50 Minnesota Vikings 22:35 Rams 25:45 Mock Drafts At the NFL league meetings, NFC coaches gathered for their annual…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears stadium UPDATE + Dan Durkin on the offseason and upcoming NFL Draft
In this episode, Dan opens Forward Progress dives into the latest updates surrounding the Chicago Bears’ stadium situation and what it means for the future of…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
NIL is changing NFL prospect evaluations by NFL, Ryan Poles and the Chicago Bears
In this episode, Dan breaks down how the NIL era has changed NFL evaluations of draft prospects in the positive and the negative This is in reference to an…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
ESPN's Kalyn Kahler on Tush Push, CBA and potential lockout, the Chicago Bears stadium drama!
In this episode, Dan is joined by ESPN's senior NFL writer Kalyn Kahler to break down some of the biggest stories shaping the NFL right now. We dive into the…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears superstar Caleb Williams wants trademark "Iceman"
In this episode, Dan dives into the Chicago Bears quarterback’s latest headline—his push to trademark the nickname “Iceman” and what it could mean for his…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Ben Johnson's appearance at the Blackhawks game, and how JSN's contract impacts Rome Odunze down the road
Dan started Monday's Forward Progress discussing Bears head coach Ben Johnson's surprise appearance at the Blackhawks game last night, and fans couldn’t get…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Patrick Finley of the Sun-Times Shares Hit Thoughts on the Off-Season for the Chicago Bears
How would you rate the Chicago Bears off-season so far? Sun-Times Bears reporter Patrick Finley gives his perspective. See Privacy Policy at…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Will the Chicago Bears draft a defensive tackle?
0:00 Bears defense 13:00 QBs on the move 18:10 Aikman 23:54 NFL rule changes The Bears’ current depth chart says one thing. The draft board might say another…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears add depth at D-Line | WR3 | Maxx Crosby is "livid"
0:00 Bears 21:15 Maxx Crosby 29:30 Colts The Chicago Bears keep tweaking the roster, but the big questions are still unanswered. The Bears added depth to the…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Bears Draft Takes, NFL Power Rankings & UFL Changes
0:00 Dillon Thieneman 10:35 Ian Cunningham 13:00 Edholm Power Rankings 21:30 DJ Moore 23:05 UFL Rules The Chicago Bears offseason chaos rolls on, and this time…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Who should start at LT? Bears turnover edge & Justin Fields lands in KC
0:00 Bears Left Tackle 9:15 Duvernay 12:15 Bears Stadium 18:20 Turnover Differential 34:40 Around the NFL The Chicago Bears offseason is officially shifting…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears Shake‑Up: Secondary Gone, defense will build through the DRAFT
0:00 Bears 31:25 DJ Moore 32:35 Josh Sweat 39:25 NFL Notes Four key pieces of the Chicago Bears’ 2025 secondary—a group that helped deliver 11 wins and an NFC…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears add Devin Bush - the PERFECT FIT and take a swing on Jedrick Wills Jr. at LT
0:00 Maxx Crosby 14:45 Kyler Murray 17:45 Bears 22:15 Devin Bush 25:00 Kedrick Wills Jr. The Chicago Bears have added former top‑10 pick Jedrick Wills Jr. to…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Bears Make More Moves… Should Poles Call About Maxx Crosby?
0:00 Crosby 19:20 Bears 29:30 Around the NFL The Chicago Bears continue their second wave of free‑agency moves, adding depth, speed, and competition across the…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
The Chicago Bears landed their priority players, what's next in FA before the draft?
0:00 Bears 27:00 Around the league 40:00 Mike Evans Day One of the NFL’s legal tampering period is in the books, and it’s time to break down what the Chicago…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Bears bring back D'Marco Jackson and Daniel Hardy | Trade for C Garrett Bradbury
The Chicago Bears are staying busy as NFL free agency kicks off. Chicago has re‑signed linebacker D’Marco Jackson and edge rusher Daniel Hardy, keeping key…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears clear cap space and targets by trading DJ Moore to Buffalo
0:00 NFL Free Agents 8:30 DJ Moore 28:20 NFL Rankings - NFL.com Looking back on DJ Moore’s time with the Chicago Bears, it somehow feels like he was here…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Chicago Bears TRADE DJ Moore & 5th round pick to Buffalo Bills for a SECOND-ROUND draft pick
BREAKING NEWS: The Chicago Bears have traded wide receiver DJ Moore and a 2026 fifth‑round pick to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for a 2026 second‑round pick…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Carmen Vitali - Fox Sports Radio talks Drew Dalman's retirement and all things Chicago Bears
Carmen Vitali of FOX Sports Radio joins the show to break down the shocking retirement of Chicago Bears center Drew Dalman and what his decision means for the…
- Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast
Drew Dalman RETIRES from the Chicago Bears
Breaking news out of Chicago: Bears starting center Drew Dalman, only 27 years old and entering the second year of his three‑year deal with the defending NFC…