When Ben Johnson entered the market as a potential head coach, he had a reputation as an offensive wizard, which was a major draw for NFL teams, including the Chicago Bears. However, they didn’t know what to expect from him as a leader. After all, great head coaches are always remembered for how well they could lead a locker room. Bears players got their first taste of Johnson in May with OTAs and minicamps. Since then, a few things have become apparent. This man might’ve missed his calling as a Navy SEALs drill sergeant.
That is not to say he’s mean or anything. It is more that he is intense about everything he does and demands nothing less than the best from you. Players who don’t give him their full attention and commitment often catch the business end of his death stare. He isn’t above calling guys out and will hand down punishments when necessary. It isn’t limited to him, either. Several members of Johnson’s coaching staff show similar tendencies, including offensive coordinator Declan Doyle and defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.
Backup quarterback Tyson Bagent summed it up best on the latest episode of 1920 Football Drive.
“They are absolutely nuts.”
Ben Johnson won’t apologize for everything.
Players don’t have to like the way he approaches things. They just have to do it. He strongly believes that this approach is the best way to turn the Bears into champions. It is hard to argue with it. Ben Johnson wants a physical football team that plays aggressively, limits mental errors, and thinks only about winning. Everything must be about the details. Teams that master the little things always pull through in tight games, something the Bears were horrible at last year. Players, for all their ability, can’t be counted on to stay on top of such things all the time. Some can, but most don’t have the self-discipline. That is where Johnson and his staff come in. Their job is never to let one mistake go unchecked.
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