Any new head coach knows the first order of business after getting hired is assembling a staff as quickly as possible. However, there isn’t much time to waste because preparations for the off-season begin soon. The East-West Shrine Bowl takes place on January 30th. Then, the Senior Bowl follows on February 1st. New Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson is working against the clock. That is why it is almost certain he already has a good idea of what the roster he’s taking over needs. Any self-respecting coach will have done the research before taking the job.
It sure sounds like Johnson has. During his run of media appearances following his hiring, it became clear he knows which direction the Bears likely focus their efforts. It started on ESPN 1000 with Carmen & Jurko, where he admitted the offensive and defensive lines need work. The next day, he went on The Herd with Colin Cowherd and said he hoped to augment the running back position to make it a team strength.
Ben Johnson focusing in those areas is not surprising.
All three were core strengths for the Detroit Lions over the past two seasons. The combination of Jamyr Gibbs and David Montgomery gave them a dominant ground attack, made even more devastating by an offensive line stacked with high draft picks. On defense, they were led by Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill. Chicago has some good pieces in place, like Montez Sweat, Gervon Dexter, and Darnell Wright. They need more, though. Thankfully, they have the resources to make it happen. That includes $66 million in projected cap space and three picks in the first two rounds.
It is widely believed this is a great year to need a running back in the draft. The class is talented from top to bottom. D’Andre Swift is a good player, but he’s not a workhorse type. Don’t be surprised if Ben Johnson nudged the team towards somebody who can handle the rock 15-20 times per game. They will also target help along the interior of the offensive line. Don’t be surprised if they throw tons of money at pending free agent Trey Smith. Either, the plan of attack for the Bears is clear.
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