# The Bears’ Most Anticipated Season in a Generation Kicks Off in Carolina

- Status: nfc-north
- Source: Bleacher Nation
- Published: 2026-09-11T18:56:28.000Z
- Original: https://www.bleachernation.com/bears/2026/09/11/bears-anticipated-season/

## The Ditka

The spring of 2023 was a wild time in Bears fandom. Chicago owned the No. 1 overall pick, Justin Fields was still the quarterback, and the franchise sat at a crossroads. Then GM Ryan Poles made his move , shipping that top selection to Carolina for DJ Moore, the No. 9 pick, a 2024 first-rounder, and a 2025 second-rounder. It felt huge on March 10, 2023. In hindsight, it might be the most consequential trade in franch

## Why it matters

Read the originating outlet for the full report.