Overview
- At the end-of-season briefing, Johnson called himself "Caleb Williams’ No. 1 believer" and said the team is "back to square one" with a fundamentals-first approach for 2026.
- Johnson flagged pass-catcher execution as a spring focus after 29 regular-season drops and took responsibility for any miscommunication on the overtime interception versus the Rams.
- Chicago’s defense, which ranked 29th in yards allowed and tied for 22nd in sacks, is a priority for upgrades, with general manager Ryan Poles stressing no complacency in roster building.
- Local reports say the Bears have already lost assistant Eric Bieniemy to the Chiefs, and Johnson acknowledged more staff movement is possible after a successful season.
- Poles said LT Ozzy Trapilo (patellar tendon) is likely out deep into next season, LB Noah Sewell had Achilles surgery, CB Jaylon Johnson’s wrist will not need surgery, and safety decisions include interest in bringing back free agent Kevin Byard within cap limits.