WATCH: Ben Johson on draft process, free agency outlook |
Tony Crumpton
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- 18 hours ago
Bears head coach Ben Johnson addressed the media on Tuesday at the NFL Combine.
Watch the press conference below:
Video summary/cliff-notes:
Condolences & Staff Building (00:00 - 00:38)
Ben Johnson expresses condolences for Virginia McCaskey’s passing.
The first priority was assembling a coaching staff with strong character, integrity, and work ethic.
Evaluating Roster & Draft Process (00:38 - 01:49)
The team is analyzing current players, free agents, and draft prospects.
Collaboration with GM Ryan Poles and personnel staff has been positive.
Ideal Player Attributes (01:49 - 02:27)
Defined ideal traits for each position, balancing athleticism and football skills.
Flexible approach to player selection—good football players will be utilized effectively.
Fundamentals & Quarterback Development (03:04 - 03:36)
Focus on fundamentals like blocking, tackling, ball security, and quarterback mechanics.
Emphasis on helping rookie QB (Caleb Williams) adjust to the NFL’s structure and cadence.
Analytics & Defensive Philosophy (03:36 - 04:55)
Johnson values analytics for game planning and roster decisions.
Defense strategy prioritizes disrupting the passer both through pass rush and tight coverage.
Team Identity & Playmaking Philosophy (05:34 - 06:47)
Desire to have playmakers across all positions.
Believes a strong, cohesive team can succeed even without star power.
Offensive Flexibility & Coaching Experience (07:21 - 07:56)
Play-action success isn’t dependent on an elite run game.
Coaching staff assembled with diverse experience, not just personal connections.
Free Agency & Draft Strategy (09:53 - 10:33)
Confident in free agency and draft approach to align supply with team needs.
Prioritizing physicality across the roster, especially in the trenches.
Offensive Line Development (11:01 - 12:11)
Focus on building depth in the O-line, similar to successful teams.
Improvement doesn’t require replacing all five starters but refining the unit’s cohesion.
Quarterback & Coaching Staff Development (12:50 - 13:58)
Johnson has been studying QB fundamentals with Harry Freed.
Declan (new coordinator) is highly regarded, and his detailed approach is already benefiting the staff.
