Ben Johnson Aims to Rewrite Bears' Quarterback Legacy
As Ben Johnson steps into his role as the new head coach of the Chicago Bears, he’s got his work cut out for him. I mean, let’s be real, the Bears have had a pretty rocky history when it comes to quarterbacks. But Johnson is all about moving forward and changing that narrative, no matter what stories from the past might pop up.
So, the Bears kicked off their first open practice of voluntary organized team activities at the Walter Payton Center on Wednesday, and guess what? The weather was a total downer, so they had to move things indoors. But hey, that didn’t stop the team from getting down to business.
Now, quarterback Caleb Williams didn’t chat with reporters after practice, but Johnson made sure to address some buzz surrounding a new book that’s been making waves. Apparently, Williams isn’t too keen on the idea of being drafted by the Bears ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. Talk about a hot topic!
Johnson, who’s only been on the job for a few months, said, “I wasn’t here last year, so I can’t really comment on what went down before I arrived. But from what I’ve seen, Williams has been fantastic to work with.” That’s a solid endorsement, right?
According to a tell-all by ESPN’s Seth Wickersham, Williams’ dad even consulted labor lawyers to find a way around the draft, calling Chicago “the place where quarterbacks go to die.” Ouch! But it seems like Williams is ready to take on the challenge of rewriting that narrative, even if it means watching film solo as a rookie in 2024 before the previous coaching staff got the boot.
Johnson is clearly excited about the chance to reshape the team’s image. “I love it. I love it. I love the opportunity to come in and change that narrative. That’s where great stories are written,” he said, and you can feel the passion in his words.
On the practice field, Johnson was all about intensity. He was even a bit agitated at times over what he called “little mistakes.” And you know what? The players noticed. Safety Kevin Byard mentioned, “Just trying to set the culture... it’s been a losing culture... drastically come in and rearrange everything.” Sounds like Johnson is ready to shake things up!
Despite the optional nature of these OTAs, the Bears saw solid attendance from veterans. However, rookie wide receiver Luther Burden III was absent, dealing with what Johnson described as a soft tissue injury. Fingers crossed he’s back on the field soon!
And just a little side note, Matt Zahn joined CBS2 Chicago back in October 2016 as a sports reporter and fill-in anchor, right when the Cubs were making history by winning the World Series. Talk about timing!
