Ben Johnson Focuses on Improvement for the 2026 Chicago Bears

Ben Johnson, head coach of the Chicago Bears, has shifted his focus from the team's successful 2025 season to the challenges of the upcoming 2026 season. After leading the Bears to an 11-win regular season and a playoff victory over the Green Bay Packers, Johnson emphasized the need to avoid complacency as the team prepares for a more competitive NFC North. "We got a monumental task at hand, because this division only got better so far this offseason," Johnson stated during the NFL owners meetings in Phoenix.

ESPN

The Bears have undergone significant roster changes, including the retirement of center Drew Dalman and the trade of wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills. Johnson acknowledged the impact of these departures on team dynamics and stressed the importance of quickly integrating new players, such as center Garrett Bradbury and safety Coby Bryant. He described Bryant as having the "it factor" and possessing dynamic traits that will positively influence the team's culture.

ESPN

Despite the Bears' offensive success in 2025, where they ranked second in the NFL with 127 explosive plays, Johnson identified areas for improvement, particularly in the passing game. He noted that the team needs to enhance route detail and ball location to better support quarterback Caleb Williams. Johnson expressed a commitment to addressing the slow starts that plagued the team, stating, "We don't want to put ourselves behind the eight ball each and every week. That's not a formula for sustained success."

Johnson highlighted the development of young players like receiver Luther Burden III and tight end Colston Loveland, both of whom showed significant improvement in the latter half of the previous season. He expressed a desire to maximize their potential and integrate them more effectively into the offensive scheme. "We've got to continue to get the ball in [Burden's] hands as often as we possibly can," Johnson remarked.

The Bears are also focused on bolstering their defense, particularly with the anticipated return of cornerback Jaylon Johnson and nickel back Kyler Gordon, who were limited by injuries last season. Johnson emphasized the importance of their presence for the overall effectiveness of the defense, stating, "We're a better team, we're certainly a better defense, when those two guys are out there."

Bears eager to get DBs Jaylon Johnson, Kyler Gordon back at full strength

Johnson's remarks reflect a proactive approach to the upcoming season, as he aims to build on the previous year's success while addressing the challenges posed by roster changes and the need for improved performance. He has expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt and grow, particularly with the integration of new players and the development of existing talent.

• "It's been a long offseason... you don't want to hear it anymore." — Ben Johnson, Head Coach, Chicago Bears

ESPN

• "We have too much talent on our offensive side of the ball for us to start off so slow." — Ben Johnson

• "Coby [Bryant] has got the 'it' factor to him." — Ben Johnson

• "We're a better team, we're certainly a better defense, when those two guys [Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon] are out there." — Ben Johnson

Bears eager to get DBs Jaylon Johnson, Kyler Gordon back at full strength

As the Bears prepare for the 2026 season, Johnson's focus on improvement and adaptation will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead and building on the foundation laid during the previous year.