Five key observations from Chicago Bears OTAs: players adapting to Ben Johnson’s intensity, improved communication, developing chemistry, new playbook installs, and defensive line progress.

The Chicago Bears’ offseason program is well underway, and with Organized Team Activities (OTAs) in full swing, fans and analysts alike are eager to gauge the progress of this young and ambitious team. After hiring Ben Johnson as the head coach, there has been heightened anticipation around how his approach and philosophy would influence the Bears’ culture and performance.

OTAs provide a vital glimpse into the team’s development—how players are absorbing new systems, adjusting to coaching styles, and building chemistry with one another. Here are five key observations from the Bears’ OTAs that highlight the evolving dynamics under Ben Johnson’s leadership.

1. Players Adapting to Ben Johnson’s Intensity

One of the most talked-about aspects of these OTAs has been how the Bears’ roster is responding to Ben Johnson’s coaching intensity. Known for his passionate, energetic, and detail-oriented approach, Johnson has injected a new sense of urgency and accountability into the team.

• High Energy Environment: Johnson’s practices are fast-paced and demanding, pushing players to maintain focus and give maximum effort throughout drills and scrimmages.
• Emphasis on Fundamentals: He stresses the importance of mastering the basics, from footwork to tackling technique, ensuring the team builds a solid foundation.
• Accountability Culture: Johnson holds players accountable for mistakes and expects continuous improvement, fostering a competitive yet supportive environment.
• Player Feedback: Multiple players have commented positively on the elevated standards and the way Johnson challenges them to be better daily.

This intensity is crucial for a team aiming to improve and compete at a higher level. The adjustment period is ongoing, but the buy-in appears strong, setting the tone for the entire offseason.

2. Improved Communication on and off the Field

Effective communication is vital to team success, particularly with a new coaching staff and playbook. The Bears have made noticeable strides in this area during OTAs.

• On-Field Calls and Adjustments: Players are showing improved clarity and confidence when making pre-snap reads and audibles. This indicates growing familiarity with the schemes and trust among teammates.
• Coach-to-Player Interactions: Ben Johnson and his assistants emphasize clear, concise instruction, which has helped reduce confusion and streamline practice sessions.
• Leadership Emerges: Veteran players and team leaders are stepping up as communicators, helping younger teammates absorb information and maintain focus.
• Film Study Integration: Players report better coordination during film review sessions, translating to smarter decisions on the practice field.

As communication continues to improve, the Bears’ ability to execute complex plays and adapt in real time will become a significant advantage.

3. Developing Chemistry Among Key Players

OTAs are an early opportunity to build on-field relationships and chemistry—particularly important for new additions and younger players stepping into larger roles.

• Quarterback-Wide Receiver Connections: Caleb Williams, the Bears’ dynamic new quarterback, has been developing rapport with wide receivers, showing increasing timing and trust during route running and catch drills.
• Offensive Line Cohesion: The Bears’ offensive line, crucial to protecting Williams and establishing the run game, is working on synchronization and communication, improving blocking assignments and coordination.
• Defensive Backfield Synergy: The secondary, which has seen some turnover, is building chemistry in coverage schemes and zone rotations, key to improving pass defense.
• Special Teams Unit: Chemistry on special teams is also developing, with kick returners, gunners, and coverage units working on timing and coordination.

Strong chemistry can be a difference-maker in close games, and early signs suggest the Bears are moving in the right direction.

4. New Playbook Installs and Scheme Adjustments

Transitioning to a new coaching staff often means a fresh playbook and scheme adjustments. The Bears are deep into the process of installing Ben Johnson’s offensive and defensive systems.

• Offensive Scheme: Johnson’s offense emphasizes versatility, creativity, and tempo. The playbook features a mix of power run concepts, quick passing, and RPOs (run-pass options), tailored to Caleb Williams’ strengths.
• Defensive Adjustments: Defensively, the staff is focusing on aggressive, flexible schemes that leverage athleticism and versatility across the front seven and secondary.
• Learning Curve: While the playbook is complex, coaches have broken it down effectively for players, facilitating steady progress in understanding and execution.
• Practice Implementation: Early scrimmages show players becoming more comfortable with their assignments, formations, and situational adjustments.

This phase is critical; the team’s ability to master the playbook will dictate their offensive rhythm and defensive effectiveness once the regular season begins.

5. Defensive Line Progress and Potential

The defensive line is a cornerstone of any successful defense, and the Bears are investing heavily in developing this unit during OTAs.

• Pass Rush Focus: Players are working on refining pass-rushing moves, hand placement, and timing to improve pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
• Run Defense: The defensive line emphasizes gap discipline and tackling techniques to shore up run defense, which was a weakness last season.
• Young Talent Development: Several young linemen are getting valuable reps, showing promising growth under the guidance of the coaching staff.
• Veteran Leadership: Experienced players are mentoring the newcomers, helping them adjust to the speed and physicality of NFL-level play.

Progress on the defensive line will be crucial for the Bears’ hopes of slowing down high-powered offenses in the NFC North and beyond.

Building Foundations for a Competitive Season

Chicago Bears OTAs have provided encouraging signs that the team is embracing a new era under Ben Johnson. The players’ adaptation to his intensity, combined with improved communication, growing chemistry, playbook installation, and defensive line progress, all point to a foundation being laid for future success.

While OTAs are just one step in the offseason journey, the hard work and buy-in displayed so far bode well for the Bears as they prepare for training camp and the 2025 NFL season. Fans can be optimistic that this young team is moving toward a more competitive and cohesive identity—one built on accountability, energy, and a commitment to improvement.

As the Bears continue to develop, these key observations from OTAs will serve as benchmarks for progress, signaling that Chicago is ready to rise in the NFC North and challenge its rivals with renewed vigor.

If you’d like, I can provide a breakdown of individual player performances or deeper analysis on the coaching strategies employed during OTAs!