The Chicago Bears tied the Miami Dolphins on Sunday in a preseason matchup. While many starters sat out, there was still plenty to learn from Ben Johnson’s debut as head coach. Here are the main takeaways:
Ben Johnson Isn’t Afraid to Show Emotion
From the start, Johnson’s passion was clear. After the Bears stuffed Miami on a 4th-and-goal in the first quarter, he was caught flexing on the sideline. He wasn’t just celebrating, though—when players made mistakes, he wasn’t afraid to hold them accountable.
Luther Burden Will Be Fun to Watch
Burden had a nice afternoon, but his clutch 3rd-and-15 catch was a great example of his football IQ, knowing exactly where to go to move the chains. Johnson praised his performance but noted Burden still has work to do learning the full playbook. After missing time with an injury, he’s putting in the extra effort to catch up.
Colston Loveland Will Be a Problem for Defenses
Loveland barely played, which likely means the Bears view him as a locked-in starter. Once Caleb Williams is throwing him passes instead of Tyson Bagent, his impact should be significant.
Tyson Bagent Shouldn’t Get Comfortable
Bagent’s stat line: 13-of-19 (68.4%), 103 yards (5.4 YPA), 1 TD, 1 INT, long of 17 yards, passer rating of 77.3.
It wasn’t a terrible game, but it wasn’t as clean as expected given his strong camp. He missed a touchdown to Burden, threw a nice scoring pass, but followed it with an interception. He also put Loveland in harm’s way with a dangerous throw on the opening drive. He’s still a solid backup, but improvement is needed.
Kyle Monangai Might Be a Draft Steal
Monangai vs. Miami:
- 6 carries, 30 yards
- 19 yards after contact
- 2 forced missed tackles
- 5.0 yards per carry
- 3 first downs
RB2 is absolutely within reach for him.
Caleb Williams and Starters Should Have Played
While Johnson’s decision to rest starters makes sense from a health standpoint, it would’ve been nice to see them get a series or two—especially at home—for the experience. That said, staying healthy is priority number one.
Braxton Jones Is in Trouble
Jones had a chance to solidify the left tackle job but instead struggled.
Ozzy Trapilo vs. Miami:
- 37 snaps
- 0 sacks allowed
- 1 pressure allowed
Braxton Jones vs. Miami:
- 24 snaps
- 1 sack allowed
- 2 pressures allowed
Jones faced tougher competition and was coming back from injury, but the LT battle is heating up.
Noah Sewell Looks Revitalized
Under Dennis Allen’s new scheme, Sewell was everywhere—4 tackles (3 solo), 1 TFL, and a forced fumble. His role on this defense might be bigger than expected.
Cairo Santos Has Added Power
Santos nailed a career-long 57-yarder with room to spare. Johnson’s willingness to let him attempt it was a nice change. While another kicker just hit from 70, Santos’ accuracy and newfound leg strength are big positives.
Bears Defense Will Be Aggressive
Allen’s willingness to blitz on 3rd-and-long sets a different tone. Expect an attacking, relentless defense this season.
Austin Booker has arrived?
Austin Booker vs Miami:
- 94.7 pass-rushing PFF grade, highest among all players in Week 1 of the preseason
- 2nd highest-graded defensive player overall, with a grade of 95.3
- Most sacks with 3 total
People forget he is still only 22 years old.
Final Quick Hits:
- Bears’ cornerback depth looks excellent.
- Case Keenum looked sharp.
- Sideline vibes were great.
- Navy blue painted end zones are a nice touch—hope they stay.
- The team already feels like it has a strong culture.
- Virginia McCaskey tribute patch is nice, though maybe a bit large.
- Ready for Week 1.
