The Chicago Bears have long been known for their strong defensive units, earning the nickname “Monsters of the Midway.” Since the start of the 21st century, seven of their defenses have ranked in the top 100 in PFSN’s Defense+ database, trailing only the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers.
In 2011, despite a promising start with a 7-3 record, the Bears finished 8-8 after quarterback Jay Cutler’s season-ending injury. The defense, featuring Pro Bowlers Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs, and Charles Tillman, was fifth in Defense+ and tied for sixth in interceptions.
The 2004 Bears saw future All-Pros Tommie Harris and Nathan Vasher join a young core including Urlacher and Briggs. Despite finishing sixth in Defense+, they ended with a 5-11 record due to offensive struggles.
In 2010, Julius Peppers’ first-team All-Pro performance helped lead the Bears to an NFC championship appearance. Chris Harris and Tillman each had five interceptions, contributing to their fourth-place finish in Defense+.
The 2001 Bears boasted the second-best defense in the NFL. Urlacher and Alex Brown were first-team All-Pros, with Rosevelt Colvin leading with 10.5 sacks. Brown notably scored two game-winning pick-sixes in consecutive weeks.
The standout defense of 2006 earned an elite grade as they reached the Super Bowl. Anchored by Pro Bowlers Urlacher and Briggs, they allowed just 15.9 points per game and finished third overall.
Topping the list is the 2005 defense with a remarkable Defense+ grade of 95.0. Five starters made the Pro Bowl, including Defensive Player of the Year Urlacher. They led the NFL by allowing only 12.6 points per game.
Urlacher’s career included notable achievements such as accumulating over a thousand tackles and being selected ninth overall by Chicago in the 2000 NFL Draft.
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