By Mummy Grace Ben Johnson Takes the Helm for the Chicago Bears: A Fresh Start Amid Past Turmoil
The Chicago Bears’ new head coach, Ben Johnson, is already making headlines for his calculated approach and refusal to be drawn into discussions about his predecessor, Matt Eberflus. During his appearance on Breakfast Ball, Johnson dodged a pointed question about Eberflus’ controversial decision in the Week 14 game against the Detroit Lions, which ultimately cost the Bears a win and led to Eberflus’ firing.
The Eberflus Controversy
In the now-infamous game, the Bears suffered a narrow 23-20 loss to the Lions. Quarterback Caleb Williams delivered an impressive performance, throwing three touchdowns and completing 20 of 39 passes for 256 yards while leading the team in rushing with 39 yards. However, with 36 seconds left and the Bears holding the ball, Eberflus chose not to call a timeout, rushing the offense instead. The result was a chaotic final play and a crushing defeat.
When asked what he would have done in a similar scenario, Johnson sidestepped the question, stating, “We’re not going there today, we’re not going there.” His refusal to engage underscores his focus on looking forward rather than revisiting past mistakes.
A New Vision for the Bears
Johnson’s appointment signals a fresh start for the struggling franchise, which ended the 2024 season in last place in the NFC North with a 5-12 record. In his introductory press conference, Johnson emphasized that his first year as head coach will not be about wins and losses but about reshaping the team’s culture.
Drawing on his success as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions—where he played a significant role in their offensive surge—Johnson aims to build a cohesive team identity centered around accountability, integrity, and maximizing the potential of quarterback Caleb Williams.
Caleb Williams at the Core
Despite a challenging rookie season, Williams has shown flashes of brilliance. Johnson sees him as the cornerstone of the Bears’ future and plans to develop the young quarterback more effectively. Many analysts believe Williams was underutilized in 2024, and Johnson’s expertise could unlock his full potential.
Looking Ahead
Ben Johnson’s focus on team culture and long-term growth rather than immediate success could provide the Bears with the stability they’ve been lacking. By prioritizing accountability and fostering a strong team identity, Johnson hopes to redefine what it means to be a Chicago Bear both on and off the field.
While fans may need patience during this rebuilding phase, the hiring of Johnson offers hope for a brighter future in the Windy City.