Dennis Allen’s Honest Assessment: What Went Wrong in 2026, What Changes, and What is the Bears Pass Rush Plan
The Chicago Bears’ defensive coordinator, Dennis Allen, delivered a candid take on the challenges faced in 2026, emphasizing that the 2025 season was not purely a talent-driven failure. While acknowledging the struggles, Allen stressed that addressing them requires a shift in focus—one that prioritizes coaching principles over individual performance. His comments reflect a strategic mindset rooted in self-reflection and long-term vision.
Allen outlined the core of his strategy as prioritizing fundamentals over the rigid scheme he implemented last year. He explained that the team’s initial focus on the defense was misguided, leading to a loss of cohesion and missed opportunities for improvement. “We focused so much on installing the new defensive system,” Allen said, “because it was brand new. But we also overlooked the foundational techniques and strategies that allow these systems to function effectively.” This shift has created a balance between discipline and adaptability, allowing the defense to evolve rather than stagnate.
One of the most striking areas highlighted by Allen was the pass rush, which he called the breakdown of fundamentals. He acknowledged that while the rush wasn’t always perfect, it became a significant issue when players struggled to maintain consistency. “There were times where we had a strong rush but didn’t hold the same level of effectiveness,” Allen noted. This led to a reevaluation of both the run blocking and passing plays, aiming to improve the coordination between offense and defense.
For Dayo Odeyingbo, Allen kept him at defensive end, leaving room for future possibilities. He emphasized the importance of Odeyingbo’s progress after his injury, noting that the coach believes his improvement in the Cincinnati game will help the team move forward. “If you go back and watch his improvements from Week 1 to the time he was injured,” Allen said, “you see a clear progression. That’s one of the things we’ve talked about repeatedly—how we teach the basics and how they translate into real performance.”
Allen’s approach underscores a philosophy that values process over perfection. Rather than fixating on specific mistakes, he focuses on the steps taken to correct them. This mindset aligns with his belief that true success lies in consistent effort and a commitment to growth. Whether the final outcome in September will be as effective as expected remains to be seen, but Allen’s focus on fundamentals suggests a direction that balances discipline and innovation.
