Overview

• Johnson, who has never been a head coach at any level, will lead the Bears against the Dolphins in Sunday’s preseason opener at Soldier Field.
• Approximately 18 starters will sit out to emphasize live testing of in-game communication systems and sharpen Johnson’s clock-management skills.
• The coaching staff implemented code-word protocols during offseason walkthroughs to align tempo calls and timeout decisions under pressure.
• Tyson Bagent is expected to play the first half as he competes for the backup quarterback role behind starter Caleb Williams.
• Live reps will also settle the starting left tackle battle between Braxton Jones and rookie Ozzy Trapilo, assess seventh-round pick Kyle Monangai at running back and evaluate depth in a six-man cornerback group.