One thing we're already learning about Ben Johnson is the man isn't afraid to be direct. He stated on his first day as head coach of the Chicago Bears that his intent was to win and win now. Not only that, but he called out the locker room by saying they need to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. It was a clear message that nobody should feel safe with their current situation. Not after a 5-12 season. That said, Johnson isn't foolish. He knows he's about to work with some really good players on both sides of the ball. One that has him particularly excited is DJ Moore.
The wide receiver has remained highly productive through some tough times in Carolina and Chicago. Despite some questions about his effort last season, he was still their most dependable target. That was despite Johnson's assessment that he was never used properly in the two years he played under Matt Eberflus and his coaching staff. He went into details about what he meant on Waddle & Silvy for ESPN 1000, while also sending a message to Moore about what is expected of him moving forward.
Ben Johnson clearly did his homework on DJ Moore.
People wouldn't know unless they looked that the Bears receiver was actually 6th in the entire NFL in yards after the catch with 588. He was the third-best among wide receivers. It is amazing the Bears didn't do more to exploit that aside from lots of bubble screens. Where were the slants, shallow crosses, and quick outs? It seems Johnson was wondering the same thing. That is a clear signal the new offense will be geared around exploiting this obvious advantage.
The blocking comment was the most interesting part. Now before people jump to conclusions, he isn't calling out DJ Moore for being a poor blocker. He actually had a solid grade last season among receivers with at least 200 blocking snaps, tying for 9th in the league. It feels more like Johnson was using him as a conduit to send a message to the rest of the locker room. Things will be different in this offense. If they want the ball, they better be prepared to contribute in every facet.
If you want to establish accountability, this is a great way to do it.
