The Chicago Bears began their 2025 training camp today at Halas Hall in Lake Forest, ushering in a new era under head coach Ben Johnson. From the outset, Johnson made it clear that camp wouldn’t be comfortable—benching the first-team offense mid-practice after early execution mistakes, setting a strict tone of accountability that reflects his commitment to establishing elite standards.
Johnson’s arrival follows a midseason coaching change in 2024 after the Bears finished 5–12. He brings experience as the offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions, where he oversaw a top-five scoring offense in each of his last three seasons. General Manager Ryan Poles recently extended his contract through 2029, signaling the organization’s hope for long-term stability and a successful partnership with Johnson to build around quarterback Caleb Williams.
On the field, Williams had a rocky start—throwing an interception on his first rep—which resulted in Johnson swiftly removing the offense from the field. That move underscores the coach’s zero-tolerance policy for error, even in early drills. Williams, who posted a 62.5% completion rate last season, now faces clear performance benchmarks: he’s expected to raise his rate to at least 70% and push for more than 4,000 passing yards—the franchise record still unbroken.
Rookies had a mixed introduction. Tight end Colston Loveland saw limited action, while wide receiver Luther Burden III remained sidelined due to a soft tissue injury. Despite missing offseason practices, the coaching staff expects Burden to join full camp participation soon. The absence of Pro Bowl cornerback Jaylon Johnson, currently dealing with a leg injury, adds urgency to the defense’s early practices.
The front seven of the defense remains anchored by Tremaine Edmunds, stepping up as a leader in the early sessions. Joined by T.J. Edwards, the two are expected to rotate between middle and weakside linebacker roles under defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, allowing for flexibility and tactical versatility in Chicago’s new scheme. Edmunds, who signed a four-year, $72 million contract in 2023, remains a steadying force on a defense in transition.
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Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle and passing game coordinator Press Taylor are new additions to Johnson’s staff—a reflection of a broader offensive overhaul intended to reshape Chicago’s identity. Assistant coaches like Matt Aponte, focusing on quarterback development, further strengthen the staff’s emphasis on detail-oriented preparation.
Players and media alike have observed a shift in culture since coach Johnson’s arrival. Tight end Cole Kmet noted that the staff refuses to let foundational errors slide, a departure from past regimes. Meanwhile, former Bears assistant Herb Howard praised Johnson’s obsession with fundamentals—everything from correct huddle execution to precise positioning is scrutinized.
Added to on-field performances is growing fan engagement. The Bears are hosting 11 open practices between July 25 and August 15, plus joint sessions against the Miami Dolphins on August 8 and Buffalo Bills on August 15.
This training camp marks a crucial test for a franchise seeking to end a decade of unsuccessful rebuilds. With new leadership in Johnson and Poles, rising expectations for Williams, and the looming absence of Jaylon Johnson, the Bears are attempting a cultural reset at Halas Hall and on the field.