The NFL owners meetings are always a hotbed for major revelations, discussions, and insight into the direction teams are headed. This year, Chicago Bears fans were particularly eager to hear from head coach Ben Johnson, who has quickly become a central figure in the organization’s future. Since taking over as the Bears’ head coach, Johnson has shown immense promise, earning respect for his vision and leadership style. His press conferences during the owners’ meetings revealed a lot about the Bears’ plans for the upcoming season and beyond.
In this article, we’ll break down the eight most significant takeaways from Bears coach Ben Johnson’s time at the NFL owners meetings. These insights provide a glimpse into Johnson’s philosophy, strategies, and expectations for the team in the 2025 season and beyond. Whether you’re a long-time Bears supporter or someone just getting into the NFL, these eight points will shape the narrative of the Bears’ future.
1. The Priority is Protecting Justin Fields
One of the biggest and most crucial statements made by Johnson during the meetings was his unwavering commitment to protecting quarterback Justin Fields. The Bears have been in the middle of a years-long rebuild, and the success of that rebuild hinges largely on Fields’ development. Johnson acknowledged the need for better protection for Fields, citing that the 2024 season showed several vulnerabilities in the offensive line.
“We know that Justin’s development is key to this organization’s future,” Johnson stated. “Our first priority is making sure that Justin can trust his protection, his offensive line, and that he can focus on executing the offense without the constant pressure of defenders in his face.”
The Bears’ offensive line has struggled over the years, and while there have been some improvements, Johnson’s commitment to fortifying the line is a sign of his understanding of the team’s core needs. The statement shows a clear plan for the 2025 NFL Draft, where finding a solid left tackle and bolstering the line will likely be priorities.
Johnson was also vocal about addressing the left tackle position, which has been inconsistent. This will likely play a role in the team’s draft strategy, with left tackle being one of the more pressing areas of concern. His candid acknowledgment of the need for better offensive line play suggests that the Bears will aggressively pursue players who can provide stability upfront.
2. Emphasizing a Balanced Offensive Scheme
Another point Johnson touched on was his commitment to maintaining a balanced offensive scheme. While Justin Fields is known for his ability to make plays with his legs, Johnson emphasized the importance of having a well-rounded attack that utilizes both the run and pass effectively.
“The league is moving toward more dynamic offenses that can attack defenses in multiple ways,” Johnson explained. “We have to be a team that can hurt you both on the ground and through the air, and that starts with establishing a run game that keeps defenses on their toes.”
The Bears’ offense in 2024 was often criticized for its predictability, with a heavy reliance on Fields’ legs and not enough diversity in the playbook. Johnson’s comments suggest that the Bears will be more committed to building an offense around balance, ensuring that opposing defenses can’t just key in on one aspect of their game. This could also mean an increased focus on the running backs and adding talent to the skill positions, creating a more multi-dimensional offense that can keep defensive coordinators guessing.
Incorporating a balanced attack will also take the pressure off Fields to be the focal point of every offensive play. While he has shown tremendous growth, ensuring that the offense can succeed without putting everything on Fields’ shoulders will be critical for his continued development.
3. A Strong Focus on Team Culture and Accountability
One of the most striking elements of Ben Johnson’s comments at the owners meetings was his emphasis on team culture. Johnson has already made it clear that one of his primary goals is to establish a culture of accountability, leadership, and respect within the Bears’ organization. This is not just about X’s and O’s—it’s about creating a winning mindset throughout the entire roster.
“We are building a culture here that values hard work, respect for one another, and most importantly, accountability,” Johnson said. “When you step on that field, you know your role, and you are expected to execute at a high level. We will hold ourselves to that standard every single day.”
This approach comes after a few years of instability and roster turnover. Johnson has made it clear that he’s not just looking for players who can perform on Sundays, but for individuals who understand the value of preparation and collaboration throughout the week. His focus on team culture could be one of the more significant drivers in shaping a new identity for the Bears as they move forward into the 2025 season.
The success of a team often comes down to how well the players buy into the coach’s philosophy. Johnson’s commitment to fostering a culture of accountability will likely resonate with the Bears’ younger roster, setting the tone for what the franchise will prioritize both on and off the field.
4. The Importance of Developing Young Talent
Another critical point Johnson made during the meetings was his focus on developing young talent, especially the team’s draft picks. The Bears have been in the midst of a rebuild for several years, and much of the team’s future success depends on developing the players they have brought in via the draft. Johnson stressed the importance of player development, from rookies to second- and third-year players, as a key part of the team’s strategy.
“Building through the draft is essential for sustained success in this league,” Johnson said. “We need to ensure that the young players we bring in can grow and develop to become integral parts of this team, both in the short-term and long-term.”
This emphasis on development is a significant shift from past regimes, which at times seemed more focused on immediate results. Johnson’s approach, however, signals that he is not only concerned with the present but is also building a foundation for the future. Whether it’s developing younger players at key positions like wide receiver, cornerback, or linebacker, the focus on growing homegrown talent will be pivotal in ensuring the Bears are competitive for years to come.
5. Improving the Defense: A Strategic Shift
While the Bears’ offense has been under the spotlight, Johnson also addressed the importance of improving the defense. The Bears have had a traditionally strong defense, but in recent years, it has not been as dominant as it once was. Johnson is determined to rectify this, and his plan includes emphasizing a more aggressive, opportunistic defensive scheme.
“We need to get back to being the defense that strikes fear into opposing offenses,” Johnson said. “That starts with building a defense that can create turnovers and be disruptive up front. We want to be a defense that puts pressure on the quarterback and takes the ball away.”
This aggressive defensive mindset will be a key focal point for the Bears in the 2025 season. With a young but talented secondary, led by cornerback Kyler Gordon and safety Jaquan Brisker, Johnson’s plan to create more turnovers and pressure the quarterback will allow the Bears to become a more complete team, balancing an aggressive defense with an improving offense.
This renewed focus on the defense could also lead to the Bears making significant investments in the upcoming draft, potentially targeting pass-rushers or interior defensive linemen who can complement the team’s current defensive core. A dominant defense will help provide the offense with more opportunities to score, creating a more balanced team overall.
6. The Quarterback Situation: Full Support for Justin Fields
Although this takeaway could be anticipated, Johnson reiterated his full commitment to Justin Fields as the team’s starting quarterback moving forward. There had been speculation throughout the offseason about potential quarterback options for the Bears, but Johnson was firm in his response.
“Justin Fields is our guy. He’s the future of this franchise, and we are fully committed to his development,” Johnson declared. “We are doing everything we can to make sure he has the tools and support he needs to succeed.”
This is a significant endorsement for Fields, who has shown flashes of brilliance but has yet to reach his full potential as a passer. The coaching staff is clearly invested in helping Fields become a more consistent thrower of the football while also utilizing his unique athleticism in ways that can benefit the Bears’ offense. With Johnson at the helm, Fields can expect to receive the guidance and mentorship he needs to become the Bears’ long-term solution at quarterback.
7. The Bears Will Be Aggressive in Free Agency
While the draft is vital for the Bears’ long-term success, Johnson made it clear that the team will also be aggressive in free agency to address immediate needs. The Bears’ front office has made moves in recent years to clear cap space, and they are in a strong position to add key free agents who can make an immediate impact.
“We’ll be active in free agency, but we’re not just looking for any players. We need players who fit our culture and are ready to contribute right away,” Johnson said.
This signals that the Bears will be strategic in targeting players who not only fill roster holes but also align with the team’s vision and culture. Whether it’s a top-tier offensive lineman, a wide receiver, or a veteran defensive leader, expect the Bears to make bold moves to improve the roster this offseason.
8. The Timeline for Success: A Long-Term Vision
Finally, Johnson addressed the Bears’ timeline for success. While the team has made incremental improvements, Johnson made it clear that he isn’t focused on quick fixes. His goal is to build a team that can sustain success over many years, not just for the immediate future.
“We’re not looking for a one-year fix. We’re building a championship team here, and that takes time,” Johnson concluded. “We are focused on the long-term success of this franchise, and that means making the right decisions for the future, even if they don’t pay off immediately.”
This long-term vision is what Bears fans needed to hear. After years of instability, Johnson’s philosophy is one of patience and careful planning. With his commitment to development, culture, and team-building, it seems the Bears are on the right path to becoming a perennial contender.