The excitement surrounding first-year Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson has been palpable among fans over the last few months. The energy he has brought has come through even during press conferences and interviews, which has many people hopeful of a quick turnaround up at Halas Hall. Now, the players are experiencing that same energy and excitement during practices.
After Day 1 of Bears rookie mini-camp, a few of the team’s top draft picks spoke with the media and shared their thoughts about Johnson and his coaching staff now that they’re beginning to get in work. First-round pick Colston Loveland didn’t shy away from how much he’s enjoying playing for Johnson. “I’m a big fan,” said Loveland. “I love his spirit, his energy. He’s super determined. He’s ready to go. He’s ready to take this thing to the top. I’ve seen him getting on people’s butts. [He’s] fired up too. I’m loving how he coaches. It’s early, but I’m excited to play for him.”
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The tight end’s comments are even more notable when you consider Loveland is not yet able to practice in full due to his recovery from shoulder surgery. But even in a limited role, he can feel the energy exuding from the head coach. The same goes for second-round tackle Ozzy Trapilo, who is vying for a starting spot on the offensive line. “He has really good energy,” Trapilo said. “I think all the guys are excited to be here. Great energy on the practice field. It was really good today.”
Fellow second-round pick Shemar Turner echoed Trapilo while playing on the opposite line. “I love the coaches; I love their energy and the way they go about things,” Turner said. “The vibe is always good here. I love everything they’ve got going.”
Energy was the word of the day, and it’s important to establish that early, especially with a group of young rookies who are just getting started. Wide receiver Luther Burden, another second-round selection, noticed it as well. “It was great energy,” Burden said. “First day, everybody got their first-day jitters out, and everybody should feel comfortable to go back and correct stuff and get back ready for tomorrow.” Burden, however, made sure to note he didn’t have that nervous energy. “I didn’t have any jitters. I’ve been ready for this.”
The rookies have a long way to go, and in Loveland’s case, he still needs to fully get back on the field. But these young players are already buying into what Johnson and his staff are selling, which is important when setting a new culture as a first-time head coach. It sounds like the players are just as excited as the fans.
This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears rookies love the energy from Ben Johnson and his coaching staff