The Chicago Bears can't expect everyone to believe in their offseason. Sure, the coaching staff and offense has been completely revamped, but that doesn't mean wins are definitely coming.
According to Sports Illustrated's Mondy Morning Quarterback, the Bears will actually have a worse season this year than their 5-11 debacle in 2017. They're projected to win only four games.
The Bears got better at crucial positions they had to get better at this offseason. Chicago brought in Taylor Gabriel, Allen Robinson and Trey Burton to help their second-year quarterback Mitch Trubisky. The offensive line took a big hit losing guard Josh Sitton and the defense, while improved with Roquan Smith at linebacker, still needs to find a pass rush. It may take one more year for this group to gel.
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Part of what's working against Chicago having a Rams-like run to the playoffs is the NFC North. The Packers, Vikings and Lions are all quality clubs capable of flirting with a deep playoff run. It's not inconceivable for the Bears to go winless in the division, which limits their upside to only 10 wins. The out-of-division games aren't easy, either. Contests against the Patriots, Rams, Seahawks and surging 49ers will be serious challenges.
Still, the Bears are a vastly improved roster over last season and a regression in the win column is highly unlikely. In fact, anything less than a .500 record would be something of a disappointment for the fan base and will add more pressure on Pace's plan to produce a playoff berth sooner than later.