​The Chicago Bears have no shortage of young talent on the roster that will be key to them repeating their success in 2026, where Chicago will now be the hunted after their 11-6 season where they won the NFC North and made waves in the NFC.The Bears offense found immediate success under first-year head coach Ben Johnson, where they ranked among the Top 10 in a variety of categories, including points per game, yards per game, passing and rushing. They had some notable contributions from a pair of young rookies, who will once again be key in 2026. Meanwhile, the defense had its struggles amid injuries and a failure to get after the quarterback. Now, Dennis Allen is turning to a pair of young defenders to help elevate the unit.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWith training camp just around the corner, here’s a look at five Bears players who are candidates to have a breakout season in 2026, which would be key for Chicago’s success.1 / 19Jun 9, 2026; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) talks with head coach Ben Johnson during Minicamp at Halas Hall. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images(Kamil Krzaczynski, Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)Colston Loveland had a mini-breakout during his rookie season, where it took some time before he emerged as a dangerous playmaker down the stretch. Loveland led Chicago in receptions (58) and receiving yards (713) and tied for most touchdowns (6). In the final 12 games of the season (including two postseason contests), Loveland caught 59 passes for 790 yards and six touchdowns. He also set an NFL rookie record with the most receiving yards in a single postseason with 193 yards in two playoff games. And that was just in one year with Ben Johnson. Now, Loveland is poised to take a big leap in Year 2, as a top target for quarterback Caleb Williams, and cement his status as one of the best tight ends in the league.Speaking of standout rookies from last season, second-year receiver Luther Burden III is poised to make waves in extended action this season following the departure of veteran DJ Moore this offseason. Burden had an impressive rookie season, in limited action, where he showcased his speed and playmaking ability in Chicago’s top-five offense. Burden was a standout during offseason workouts, where his chemistry with Caleb Williams continues to develop and he continues to earn the respect of his head coach, who is “buying Luther Burden stock” heading into 2026. There’s even discussion among fans and analysts that Burden could have a breakout season and surpass Rome Odunze as WR1.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe Bears didn’t make any moves at edge rusher this offseason, so they’re banking on the guys already on the roster, including third-year pro Austin Booker. While Booker missed the first seven games with a knee injury suffered during the preseason, he returned in force opposite star Montez Sweat and showcased his impressive potential. Booker had 4.5 sacks, 1