Training camp for the Chicago Bears has been underway for a few weeks now, and there have been growing pains for the offense. Ben Johnson is putting in a new scheme which is complex and detail-oriented.
There is a ton to be still desired in that area, and Johnson pointed out that the offensive line didn't play well in Sunday's annual Family Fest practice. When speaking to the media on Monday, Johnson said, "There were linemen going the wrong way. There were communication errors."
Ben Johnson on the sloppiness from Sunday after watching the film:
— CHGO Bears (@CHGO_Bears) August 5, 2025
"There were lineman going the wrong way. There were communication errors."
Ben Johnson Names OL as Unit That Needs to Improve
The Bears' defense dominated in Sunday's practice session, consistently generating pressure and stuffing the run. The offense even committed a couple of pre-snap penalties.
With the running attack and constant pressure being a problem, the offensive line carries a lot of fault there. Johnson made it a priority to improve the trenches this offseason, as they traded for Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. They also signed Drew Dalman and drafted Ozzy Trapilo in the second round.
Chicago made sure to put assets into that unit after they were first in the NFL in sacks allowed (68) last season. So far, the results haven't followed, but it doesn't mean the time to panic is now. The offensive line needs to play next to each other constantly to build that comfort and continuity. Add that they may have different responsibilities upfront, and you can see why they struggled.
Jackson, who was acquired in March, is dealing with a lower leg injury that has kept him sidelined for the last couple of days. Having one of your starters in and out of the lineup while they look to build a rapport isn't what they want.
Chicago's roster is a work in progress, but they have the talent to do something good in 2025 if they can smooth out the edges. Getting better protection upfront is where things start offensively, and the positive play can trickle down from there.
The Bears have their first preseason game on Aug. 10 against the Miami Dolphins, giving them the first chance to suit up against an opponent in 2025. Johnson said it's "to be determined" if the starters will play in this game, but with how Sunday's practice went for the offense, it would be smart for them to get some live reps in.
These opportunities are limited before the Sept. 8 opener against the Minnesota Vikings. If Chicago has success this season, the offensive line will need to play better, and Johnson knows that.