Cubs News: Three Takeaways from the Ben Johnson Presser |
To say it's the beginning of a new era for Chicago Bears football would be an understatement, as Ben Johnson was officially introduced as the new head coach on Wednesday. In what was one of the worst-kept secrets of the offseason, with the Bears fully invested in naming Johnson their next coach, everything can come to rest as Kevin Warren and Ryan Poles got the job done to get their man.
While some pundits think the Bears job isn't highly coveted, this is still the Chicago Bears, and history alone made this a coveted opening. Johnson felt that way as he made this one of his desired locations since the middle of the season and focused on Chicago throughout the hiring process. Now that he is here, he can begin the next chapter of Chicago Bears football with the hopes of not only turning them into annual playoff contenders but someday hoisting the Lombardi Trophy once again. Although there was a lot to take in during his introduction, three things stood out the most about what Johnson said during his introduction.
As mentioned above, Johnson was very intrigued by the Bears job since Matt Eberflus was fired. Much of that had to do with Caleb Williams and the pieces assembled, which was a big part of the decision-making process. He also mentioned his family taking yearly trips to Wrigley Field to watch a Cubs series every summer. That alone proves he loves the city of Chicago and wants to be a part of something special. You could see it in his eyes. You could hear the excitement in his voice. He wanted to be a Bear, and now that he is here, it's an opportunity he isn't going to take lightly. From the city, the organization, and the roster assembled by Poles, Johnson feels like this is the perfect spot for him to land and that success is coming. Hopefully, the success translates sooner rather than later, or the media will turn on him quickly.This is where he wanted to be
Did Johnson hint at a Ryan Poles extension?
Although he didn't directly say that Poles is getting an extension, he made a remark that leads many to believe that Poles is in line to get an extension soon. With Poles entering the final year of his contract, many felt that he might be out the door with a new coach coming in.
Not only was that not the case, but it does seem likely that Poles will be getting an extension based on what Johnson said in his presser. In case you missed it, not only did Johnson give Poles credit for what he has done to this roster, but he also commented about working hand in hand with him for years to come.
Poles's future is solely in Warren's hands beyond this season, but part of what Johnson was looking for before taking any job was to have his contract and the GM contract linked together. Knowing Poles is in the final year of his deal and hearing Johnson talk about working together long term has many under the assumption that a new deal is in the works.
Whether that happens or not remains to be seen and ultimately falls on the success of the draft and what Poles does in free agency. If the team underperforms again, Chicago will have no choice but to move on, which could create tension between Johnson and Warren.
Johnson loves Caleb Williams and his abilities
Not only did the city play a role in Johnson coming to Chicago, but Caleb Williams played a massive part in this decision. Throughout the season, and mainly after the Bears faced off against the Lions, Johnson raved about how good of a Quarterback Williams is and his bright future.
Even if the results weren't there, Williams still had an impressive season as he set a franchise rookie record for Passing yards, had the fourth-longest streak in NFL history and the longest streak by a rookie without an Interception, and threw for 20 TDS as a rookie.
Remember, he did that behind an offensive line that got him sacked 68 times, and you have to wonder how good he could've been had he stayed upright long. Having Johnson as the Head Coach not only gives the Bears an offensive mastermind but one with all the tools to create some magic with Williams.
You saw what can happen when you put weapons around a Quarterback in Detroit, and the goal is to have similar results in Chicago. If the Bears prioritize the offensive line, draft the right talent, and let Johnson do his thing, good things are ahead for this organization.
