Things aren’t going exactly to plan in Chicago. With a fresh head coach, a generational rookie quarterback, and an overhauled offense, excitement was buzzing around the Bears’ training camp.But just days before their preseason opener, reality came crashing down. And it came straight from the top. Head coach Ben Johnson didn’t sugarcoat it. After a rocky practice, he delivered a wake-up call that sent shockwaves through the fanbase: “If it continues like that, we’re not going to win many games.”
Ben Johnson raises red flags ahead of preseason debut
It’s not the kind of statement you expect from a new leader. Especially one tasked with transforming a team in need of a major turnaround. But Johnson, known for his straight talk and offensive expertise, made it clear that there’s a long way to go before things click.Johnson built his reputation as the man who revived Jared Goff’s career in Detroit, turning the Lions into one of the league’s top offensive units. That success landed him the Bears’ head coaching job. Especially, with the big ask of ushering rookie quarterback Caleb Williams into the NFL. But that road is proving to be more turbulent than expected.Chicago’s struggles came into full view during a recent full-contact goal-line drill. On a play starting at the one-yard line, the offense committed a safety error. It was a mistake that highlighted deeper issues with execution and focus. Johnson didn’t hold back when speaking to ESPN’s Courtney Cronin.“It’s something we’re going to have to address for sure,” Johnson said. “It showed up more today than it has in practice. This was more like a real game, and if it continues like that, we’re not going to win many games.” He gave credit where it was due, the defense brought the heat. However, he also emphasized that the offensive miscues weren’t excusable. “Execution of the play wasn’t what we wanted to be,” he added. “It’s a credit to the defense — they came out and they kicked the offense’s rear in that. So that’s what showed up to me — they wanted it a little bit more.”
Can Ben Johnson shape this offense fast enough?
The problems are especially worrying considering where the Bears ranked last season. They logged the fewest passing yards in the NFL (4,820) and were second to last in total first downs (296), only outpacing the Carolina Panthers. That’s the uphill climb Johnson is facing, and early camp miscues aren’t making it any easier.Of course, developing a new offense and mentoring a rookie quarterback like Caleb Williams takes time. The talent is undeniably there, but Johnson’s challenge is putting it all together fast. The preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins on August 10 will be the first test of whether the offense is beginning to gel or is still stuck in neutral. For now, it’s clear that the Bears have work to do. And Johnson is determined not to let early sloppiness define their season.Also read: ‘I’d sacrifice both of my testicles’ — Ben Johnson Vows Extreme Sacrifice for Bears Super Bowl Win