Bears Week 1 depth chart reveals several intriguing decisions before Panthers opener

The most notable decision comes at left tackle, where Braxton Jones is listed as the starter ahead of Ozzy Trapilo. Johnson confirmed Tuesday that Jones will open the season protecting Caleb Williams' blind side, although he emphasized that the Bears will continue evaluating the position.

Elsewhere on offense, there aren't many surprises. D'Andre Swift remains RB1 ahead of Kyle Monangai, while Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III headline the receiving corps. Kalif Raymond is listed behind Odunze, with rookie Zavion Thomas behind Raymond.

Odunze's placement atop the depth chart doesn't guarantee he'll play Sunday. Johnson said Tuesday that the third-year receiver is day-to-day and won't practice Tuesday because of an injury that is different from the foot problem he battled last season.

At tight end, Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland are both listed as starters, an indication of how important Chicago's talented tandem remains entering Johnson's second season running the offense.

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Bears depth chart reveals interesting defensive decisions

The defensive depth chart features Dillon Thieneman and Xavier Woods as the starting safeties, while Cam Lewis is listed as a starting defensive back.

At cornerback, Jaylon Johnson and Tyrique Stevenson Sr. sit atop the depth chart, with rookie Malik Muhammad II behind Stevenson and Clark Phillips III behind Johnson.

Kyler Gordon is absent while on injured reserve with a calf injury. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that Gordon is working away from the team with his own trainer, with the plan for him to return to the Bears a few weeks into the season before beginning to practice.

The defensive front reflects Chicago's post-Gervon Dexter lineup. Montez Sweat, Grady Jarrett, Kentavius Street and Dayo Odeyingbo are listed as the starters, while rookie Jordan van den Berg appears behind Street.

T.J. Edwards and Devin Bush are Chicago's starting linebackers.

Special teams contains another interesting note. Kalif Raymond is listed as the Bears' primary kick and punt returner, with Thomas behind him at both spots. Thomas showcased his return ability during the preseason finale against Tennessee, but Raymond remains first in line entering Week 1.

As always, an early-season depth chart shouldn't be confused with guaranteed snaps. Still, with Chicago's offseason finally over, this is the group the Bears are taking into Carolina as they begin their defense of the NFC North title Sunday at Bank of America Stadium. The game kicks off at noon CT.