Former Bears Players Primed to Shine Brightly in UFL

Chicago football fans get more action this weekend as the UFL begins its third season. The league opens with eight teams and a full slate of spring matchups.

Season structure and context

The UFL will play a 10-week regular season. Two additional weeks are reserved for the playoffs. There is no franchise based in Chicago this year.

Several former Bears players are primed for success. They could shine brightly on UFL rosters.

Notable former Bears now in the UFL

Ian Wheeler — RB, Louisville Kings

Wheeler became a preseason fan favorite with the Bears over the past two years. In the 2025 preseason he led Chicago in rushing with 100 yards and scored two touchdowns. That touchdown total matched his 2024 preseason output.

Austin Reed — QB, Dallas Renegades

Reed spent the last two years training with the Bears but never made the final roster. He completed nearly 70 percent of his preseason passes and threw one touchdown with zero interceptions. The Renegades named him their Week 1 starter against the Houston Gamblers.

Taco Charlton — EDGE, Dallas Renegades

Charlton last appeared in an NFL regular-season game while wearing a Bears uniform in 2022. He played in five games that season and recorded three tackles. He has since carved out a steady spring-football career.

Antonio Ortiz — LS, Dallas Renegades

Ortiz signed with the Bears as an undrafted free agent in 2022 but did not make the roster. He later joined the Renegades. He has served as their long snapper since arriving.

Shaun Wade — CB, Dallas Renegades

Wade was on the Bears roster last year before being placed on injured reserve during training camp. Chicago elected not to retain him during the offseason. He now looks to rebuild his career in the UFL.

What fans should watch

The UFL offers a platform for players aiming to return to the NFL. Former Bears talent on UFL rosters will attract local interest despite no Chicago team. Filmogaz.com will monitor these players throughout the season.