WATCH: Ben Johnson on preseason preparation, QB2 competition heats up |
Tony Crumpton
· · 22 hours ago
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson met with the media on Tuesday at Halas Hall.
Johnson has been impressed with young quarterback Tyson Bagent during the early portions of training camp. "Man, he's been phenomenal," Johnson said. "I mean, he's smart as a whip. Appreciate the seriousness and intent that he brings every time he walks into a room. Meeting room, walk-through, it doesn't matter. He's locked in. He's focused. I think his teammates feel that from him." Watch the video below:
Video summary/cliff notes:
(00:00) Bears conclude their final offensive and defensive installs focusing on short yardage and goal line. Today's practice is key, scheduled for noon to simulate hotter, game-like conditions.
(00:36) Decisions about starters playing time against Miami on Sunday remain TBD; Johnson plans to finalize after consulting with Miami's Coach McDaniel.
(01:39) Emphasis is on strategic use of reps in practices versus preseason games, balancing development and game readiness.
(02:19) Joint practices with Miami and Buffalo were strategically planned soon after Johnson was hired, providing different offensive and defensive challenges and high-quality competition.
(02:59) Mistakes during practice, such as alignment errors and incorrect assignments, were identified and addressed as areas needing improvement.
(04:05) Johnson praised Tyreek Stevenson's personality and growth, noting that year three is crucial for him, and competition has positively impacted his progress.
(04:43) Game management and play-calling communication during high-pressure scenarios are priorities; Johnson acknowledges mistakes will happen but emphasizes teammates covering for each other to overcome errors.
(07:12) Bears' run game versatility has emerged; Johnson notes a strong combination of wide-zone schemes, gap schemes, and QB athleticism.
(07:36) QB Caleb dealt with a headset malfunction as a learning opportunity, emphasizing calm problem-solving under pressure.
(08:44) QB2 Tyson was highly praised for his intelligence, preparation, and serious approach, though the depth chart remains fluid, emphasizing ongoing competition.
