WATCH: Poles, Warren, McCaskey on hiring Ben Johnson |
The Chicago Bears held an introductory press conference officially announcing the hiring of their head coach Ben Johnson on Wednesday.
Watch the full press conference of the reactions by Ryan Poles, Bears President Warren and owner George McCaskey: Video Summary/Cliff-Notes: Why Ben Johnson Stood Out (00:01–00:38): Extensive research highlighted his exceptional play-calling ability. A standout moment was his Zoom call where his enthusiasm and commitment to the team were evident. Quick Mobilization (00:36–01:09): The Bears were prepared to act swiftly after Johnson became available, with no panic during negotiations. Strong Alignment and Chemistry (01:09–01:38): Personal and professional connections between Johnson and the Bears' leadership fostered trust and rapport. Top Candidate from the Start (01:38–02:09): Johnson's innovative offensive strategies and track record positioned him as the top candidate early in the process. Vision for Team Improvement (02:09–02:38): Johnson emphasized accountability, discipline, and building a winning culture to address the team's shortcomings. Versatility in Coaching Philosophy (03:08–03:38): Johnson's balance between creative play-calling and a strong running game was highlighted as crucial for late-season success. Collaboration on Player Development (04:04–04:30): Johnson plans to work closely with the front office on player evaluations, fostering collaborative decision-making. Commitment to Caleb’s Growth (04:30–07:25): Johnson will challenge quarterback Caleb to improve foundational skills, adaptability, and professionalism. Support from Ownership and Front Office (06:03–07:25): The Bears' ownership fully supported the aggressive pursuit of Johnson, aligning organizational priorities. Broad Interview Process (08:28–30:48): A comprehensive interview process provided insights into various coaching philosophies, ultimately affirming Johnson as the best choice. Focus on Winning (13:05–18:21): Johnson’s approach aligns with the Bears' goals of immediate and sustained success, emphasizing talent development and adaptability. Confidence Moving Forward (24:49–30:48): The Bears' leadership expressed optimism about the team's trajectory with Johnson at the helm, emphasizing preparation and alignment.
