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The Chicago Bears once again had an impactful offseason that has them positioned for long-term success. That started with the hiring of Ben Johnson as head coach, and he’s already changing the culture in the locker room and working on unlocking quarterback Caleb Williams’ potential.
Johnson’s hands have been all over Chicago’s offseason moves, which started with overhauling the entire interior offensive line with the trades for guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, as well as the free-agent signing of center Drew Dalman. They also signed defensive tackle Grady Jarrett and defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo in free agency while adding an impactful draft class including tight end Colston Loveland, wide receiver Luther Burden III and offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo.
Chicago’s impressive offseason has once again earned them the unofficial honor of offseason champions, per CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards. The Bears beat out the New England Patriots (2nd), Minnesota Vikings (3rd), Denver Broncos (4th) and Washington Commanders (5th) for the top spot. But will it translate to the on-field product?
“The changes for the Bears began at the top with incoming head coach Ben Johnson,” wrote Edwards. “Johnson was regarded as one of the game’s most forward-thinking, dynamic offensive play-callers in his former role with the Lions, and Chicago is hoping that success follows him within the division. The roster supplementation did not end there, however.
“The NFC North franchise ate its vegetables by upgrading the offensive line through the acquisitions of Joe Thuney, Drew Dalman and Jonah Jackson. The defensive line’s floor should be elevated with Grady Jarrett and Dayo Odeyingbo joining the cause. Pass-catchers Luther Burden III and Colston Loveland were added in the draft.”
The only thing Edwards is weary of is the fact that the Bears were also atop this same list last year…and look how that turned out. While that may be the case, there’s no denying that things seem different this time around for Chicago.
Call it the Ben Johnson effect, but it finally feels like the Bears have the right coach in place (although he’s still got plenty to prove). It also helps that they shored up the biggest weakness along the offensive line in a massive way this offseason. That, coupled with Johnson’s arrival and more weapons, puts Williams in a position to thrive in 2025.
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