Feb. 5, 2026, 9:36 p.m. CT
Ben Johnson made an incredible impact as his first year as Chicago Bears head coach, which earned him a nomination for AP Coach of the Year at the NFL Honors.
The Bears from worst to first, in one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL, going from 5-12 to 11-6 in Johnson’s first season. Chicago earned their first NFC North title since 2018 and ultimately their first postseason win in 15 years in what was a thrilling wild-card win over the rival Green Bay Packers.
Not only did Johnson not win — as New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel earned the honor — but he was disrespected in voting. Johnson finished fourth overall with 145 total votes, but he received just one first place vote, which was dead last among the contenders.
Naturally, there was a strong reaction from Bears fans — and even non-Bears fans — to Johnson being disrespected in voting. Heck, you know it’s bad when even Packers fans think it’s absurd. But, as several fans pointed out, maybe the NFL should think twice about igniting a fire under Johnson heading into the 2026 season.
NFL world reacts to Ben Johnson being disrespected in Coach of the Year voting
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