Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson looks on during Minicamp at Halas Hall.
Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
With the Chicago Bears preparing for their Week 1 contest against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday afternoon, there's no denying that the team is surrounded by high expectations after a step up in 2025. While the Bears are led by head coach Ben Johnson, now entering his second season with the franchise, he would make a championship claim that is sure to excite some fans.
Speaking to the media on Friday, Johnson reflected on a comment he had made last season where he mentioned how Chicago was “not practicing at a championship level.” Referencing that anecdote, Johnson expresses that he is “not saying that this year.”
“Here's what I'm excited about: how hard they're working on a regular basis right now,” Johnson said. “Like, I think I made a comment last year about we're not practicing at a championship level yet, and I'm not saying that this year. Like, these guys, the work that they're putting in throughout the week, it doesn't guarantee you a win on Sunday, but it gives you a darn chance.”
“I'm happy about what I'm seeing from all those guys,” Johnson continued. “And as a result from that, they all get better. They all get better, and it's an easy thing to do Week 1. It's a lot more challenging as we get into this thing, and their bodies don't feel 100 percent, and for us to be at our best on game day, we'll have a little discomfort during the course of the week.”
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While Johnson even admits that it remains to be seen how those habits he mentioned will progress as the season goes along, there's no doubt excitement around Chicago this upcoming season. The Bears look to impress in 2026 as it starts in Week 1 on Sunday against the Panthers.