Ben Johnson Gets Honest About Bears Offensive Line
As the Chicago Bears continue to rebuild and reshape their roster, one area that has drawn significant attention is their offensive line. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson didn’t hold back when discussing the unit’s strengths, weaknesses, and what lies ahead. With a candid assessment, Johnson provided insight into the line’s current state, its potential, and the steps needed to turn it into a reliable foundation for the Bears’ offense.
Assessing the Current State
During a recent press conference, Johnson was straightforward in acknowledging the challenges faced by the Bears’ offensive line.
“We’ve seen moments where this group has shown real promise, but consistency has been the issue,” Johnson said. “There’s a lot of room for growth, and we’re committed to getting there.”
Key Issues Identified
- Pass Protection Struggles
The Bears allowed a high number of sacks last season, with opposing defenses consistently finding ways to exploit the line’s vulnerabilities. Johnson emphasized that protecting quarterback Justin Fields is a top priority.“We’ve got to do a better job keeping Justin clean. He’s a playmaker, but he can’t make plays if he’s running for his life every snap.”
- Run Blocking Inconsistencies
While the Bears showed flashes of dominance in the run game, especially with Fields’ scrambling abilities, their run-blocking grades have been uneven. Johnson noted that creating more running lanes for their backs is essential.“It’s not just about Justin’s mobility. We need to establish a strong, consistent ground game, and that starts up front.”
- Communication and Cohesion
Injuries and frequent lineup changes disrupted the line’s chemistry. Johnson stressed the importance of stability and teamwork moving forward.“Football is a team game, and that applies more to the O-line than any other position group. These guys need time to gel.”
The Bright Spots
Despite his critiques, Johnson pointed to several positives that give the Bears hope for the future.
- Emerging Talent: Young linemen like Teven Jenkins have shown potential, earning praise for their physicality and work ethic.
“Teven has really stepped up. His versatility and toughness are exactly what we’re looking for,” Johnson said.
- Leadership: Veteran linemen have provided valuable mentorship to the younger players, helping to establish a culture of accountability.
- Coaching Impact: Johnson expressed confidence in the Bears’ offensive line coaching staff, highlighting their ability to develop talent and implement effective schemes.
Looking Ahead
Johnson outlined a clear vision for improving the offensive line, emphasizing a multifaceted approach.
1. Personnel Upgrades
The Bears are expected to make moves in free agency and the draft to bolster the unit.
- Draft Targets: The team has been linked to several top offensive line prospects, with Johnson hinting at the importance of securing a franchise-caliber left tackle.
- Free Agency: Adding experienced players who can contribute immediately will be a priority.
2. Improved Technique
Johnson noted that refining the fundamentals is critical for the current group.
“We’ve got to focus on footwork, hand placement, and finishing blocks. The little things make a big difference.”
3. Scheme Adjustments
Tailoring the offensive scheme to the line’s strengths will help mitigate its weaknesses. Johnson spoke about incorporating quicker passes and more misdirection to keep defenses guessing.
“We want to put these guys in the best position to succeed. That means playing smarter, not harder.”
The Justin Fields Factor
Johnson made it clear that protecting Justin Fields is non-negotiable. Fields’ dynamic abilities as a dual-threat quarterback depend on having a reliable offensive line.
“Justin is the centerpiece of this offense. If we’re going to maximize his potential, it starts with giving him time and space to operate.”
What Success Looks Like
When asked about his vision for the offensive line, Johnson described an ideal unit as one that is:
- Consistent: Able to perform at a high level week in and week out.
- Physical: Dominant at the point of attack in both the run and pass game.
- Unified: Functioning as a cohesive group with strong communication.
“Success isn’t just about stats. It’s about building a group that takes pride in their work and plays with a chip on their shoulder every snap.”