Ben Johnson is Bears' biggest reason for optimism in 2025
The Chicago Bears had another impactful offseason where they're looking to finally turn the corner. They've got a new head coach in Ben Johnson, who's bringing plenty of optimism to Chicago -- and hopes are high for what the Bears can achieve in 2025.
Pro Football Focus' Dalton Wasserman recently examined every NFL team's biggest reason for optimism heading into the 2025 season, and it's no surprise that Johnson was listed as Chicago's. After all, Johnson's resume speaks for itself. He helped establish the Detroit Lions offense into a top unit in the league, made Jared Goff a Pro Bowl quarterback and saw first hand how to lead a team from Dan Campbell.
"Head coach Ben Johnson has rebuilt the Chicago Bears' offense in his vision," wrote Wasserman. "The team's revamped offensive line now includes Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson and Drew Dalman. They added additional weapons in Colston Loveland and Luther Burrden III via the draft. The onus is now on Caleb Williams to improve upon the 63.5 PFF passing grade from last season. If he does, Chicago could boast one of the league's most dangerous offenses."
While Johnson, touted as the best head coaching candidate in this cycle, will be responsible for leading the entire team, it's his impact on this Bears offense that will play a key role in Chicago's success. In choosing the Bears, Johnson chose quarterback Caleb Williams, who garnered plenty of praise from Johnson last season. Johnson will be tasked with developing Williams, but the pieces are certainly in place.
Johnson's first order of business was fixing an offensive line that got Williams sacked a league-high 68 times in 2024. Chicago quickly overhauled the interior offensive line with the acquisitions of guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, as well as center Drew Dalman.
There's also no question the Bears have a plethora of weapons at their disposal, starting with returning veterans DJ Moore, Rome Odunze, Cole Kmet and D'Andre Swift. But that didn't stop them from adding some potential playmakers in tight end Colston Loveland and receiver Luther Burden III in the 2025 NFL draft.
It's clear that Johnson is molding this team in his vision, and the pieces are in placer for Chicago to make a splash as early as his first season.
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