Indianapolis, IN – Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson made his debut at the combine on Tuesday, addressing the media for the first time as head coach. Unlike many new head coaches, Johnson did not face questions about his quarterback situation but instead focused on outlining his plans for the team moving forward.
As the Bears look ahead to voluntary OTAs and the draft, Johnson emphasized the importance of going back to the basics with quarterback Caleb Williams and the rest of the team. His goal is to build a strong foundation by working on fundamentals such as huddle procedures, cadence, and offensive strategies to elevate the team’s performance in Chicago.
During discussions with general manager Ryan Poles, Johnson highlighted the evolving landscape of quarterback play in the NFL. He expressed excitement about Williams’ ability to make plays off-schedule, emphasizing the importance of this skill in today’s game. Johnson’s experience with mobile quarterbacks like Ryan Tannehill and Jared Goff has prepared him to maximize Williams’ potential on the field.
Looking ahead, Johnson also addressed the future of running back D’Andre Swift in the Bears’ offense. Drawing from his time with Swift in Detroit, Johnson praised the athlete’s versatility and playmaking abilities. Swift’s role in the upcoming season will be influenced by free agency and the draft, but Johnson is optimistic about the impact Swift can have on the team’s success.
One key aspect that Johnson plans to implement in Chicago is utilizing the play-action passing game more effectively. Contrasting the Bears’ previous ranking in play-action passes with the Lions’ success in this area, Johnson aims to leverage his coaching staff’s expertise to enhance the team’s performance through strategic play-calling.
As the Bears undergo roster changes, including the releases of veterans Gerald Everett and DeMarcus Walker, Johnson and Poles are focused on reshaping the team for the upcoming season. These decisions create opportunities for new talent to step up and contribute to the team’s success, highlighting the ongoing evolution of the Bears’ roster.
In conclusion, Johnson’s coaching philosophy prioritizes maximizing player strengths and creating a cohesive team dynamic. With a focus on fundamentals, strategic play-calling, and cultivating talent, Johnson is poised to lead the Bears into a new era of success on the field.