Bears for first time the subject of
HBO's 'Hard Knocks'
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 [May 31, 2024]
The Chicago Bears, with the top overall draft pick in Heisman
Trophy-winning quarterback Caleb Williams, will be the subject of
the long-running "Hard Knocks" documentary series for the first
time, HBO, NFL Films and the team announced Thursday.
The franchise had not been interested in being the subject of "Hard
Knocks," which since 2001 has chronicled NFL teams at training camp
with behind-the-scenes access.
"We're told there is some interest in other teams being on the
program and we welcome that interest," Bears chairman George
McCaskey said at the NFL team owners meetings in March.
The organization does not appear to have changed its tune since
then, judging by coach Matt Eberflus' brief statement in a press
release.
"Our players, coaches and staff are excited to continue the process
of building for the 2024 season," Eberflus said.
The five-episode series will premiere Aug. 6 on HBO and will stream
on Max. New episodes run each Tuesday through Sept. 3.
"We are honored to feature such an iconic NFL franchise on ‘Hard
Knocks,'" Shannon Furman, NFL Films senior director and supervising
producer, said in a statement. "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."
"‘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," team
president & CEO Kevin Warren said in a statement.
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The Bears improved after an 0-4 start last season
in finishing 7-10. Quarterback Justin Fields was traded to the
Pittsburgh Steelers, opening a clear path for former Southern
California star Williams to be the new starter.
Chicago also drafted wide receiver Rome Odunze of
Washington to join veterans DJ Moore and Keenan Allen -- the latter
a notable new edition along with running back D'Andre Swift as the
Bears bolstered the offensive side of the ball to complement a solid
defense.
The Bears play four preseason games, including the Pro Football Hall
of Fame Game against the Houston Texans on Aug. 1. Chicago also has
the Bills, Bengals and Chiefs on its exhibition schedule.
The series has expanded to three versions this season. The training
camp coverage will follow a five-week run of a new spinoff endeavor,
"Hard Knocks: Offseason with the New York Giants," which was
announced earlier this month.
The in-season version will follow all four teams in a division for
the first time. The specific division has yet to be chosen.
--Field Level Media
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