Ben Johnson is entering the second year of his tenure as the Bears head coach, and to be honest, things couldn't be going better for him. The Bears are in good shape following the disappointing end to the 2025 campaign, but there's definitely places where the Bears can improve. Much of the general fan's complaints do not come down to Johnson, however. Rather, Johnson's approval couldn't be higher.
Johnson knows great leadership begins with listening
Johnson quickly cites his excellent coaching staff as a reason for success and when pressed upon his own evolution. But I would argue that that's exactly the kind of thing that makes Johnson an excellent coach. Relying on the experience of those around you and understanding their expertise can be a superpower. It can even go beyond excellent coaching. It easily can translate to leadership skills as well.
"Still feels like I'm drinking out of a firehose, that's what you mean. But it's like I alluded to a year ago, I mean, I got a great staff around me. I continue to learn from them...I always think as the head coach, you're trying to bring all three phases together the best you can on game day. And I'm hopeful that I'll be able to do that better this year."Ben Johnson
Johnson arrived in Chicago with a reputation as an offensive guru, a title that's very well deserved. But there's so much more to being a head coach than just offensive play design. Football is built of three equally important components of the game, and it's paramount that the head coach bestows his attention to each of them. Johnson showing a casual understanding of his job suggests knowledge and wisdom beyond it.
Johnson's first season as the Bears head coach proved that his methods can produce results. It's true that many of the Bears successes in 2025 can be attributed to unlikely circumstances, but it's also true that Johnson's leadership is what put the Bears in a position to capitalize. Johnson may be drinking out of a firehose when it comes to information, but having the wisdom to trust those around you may be the most important leadership quality he possesses. And it may well be why he's likely to be a head coach in this league for many years to come.
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