The Chicago Bears will be featured on HBO’s “Hard Knocks” this summer, the NFL announced Thursday.
The Bears were one of three teams that could’ve been forced into being the subject of the hit HBO docuseries this summer, along with the Denver Broncos and New Orleans Saints.
The qualifications were missing the playoffs for the past two seasons, not having a first-year head coach and not having been on “Hard Knocks” in the past decade.
“We are honored to feature such an iconic NFL franchise on ‘Hard Knocks,'” said Shannon Furman, NFL Films senior director and supervising producer. “The Chicago Bears have a talented roster, coaching staff and front office all determined to match the expectations of a hungry fanbase. We are thankful to the entire organization for opening their doors to us for what is sure to be an exciting training camp this summer.”
Bears chairman George McCaskey has been vocal about not wanting to be featured on “Hard Knocks” over the past couple of years. But, ultimately, the NFL couldn’t pass up the opportunity to highlight the charter franchise entering arguably its most anticipated season in decades.
They’re ushering in a new era with No. 1 pick Caleb Williams, they have a young, ascending defense, they’re looking to make that next step to contend for the playoffs and they’re one of 10 teams never featured on the show before.
“ ‘Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Chicago Bears’ will provide our passionate fans across the world the ability to experience this unique and critical time in the history of our franchise,” said team president Kevin Warren.
The five-episode series premieres Tuesday, Aug. 6 at 8 p.m. CT on HBO and will stream on Max.
