Ben Johnson Vows to Build a Fearsome Defense for Bears: ‘We’re Getting There, and Opponents Will Fear Us!’
As the Chicago Bears look to reshape their defense under the leadership of defensive coordinator Ben Johnson, his vision for the unit is clear: build a top-tier defense that strikes fear into opponents. In a recent interview, Johnson made it clear that while the team is still a work in progress, the pieces are in place for the Bears to become one of the most formidable defenses in the NFL.
“I’m here to turn this defense into something that makes opponents fear us,” Johnson said. “We’ve got all the pieces, now it’s about putting them together. I know what it takes to build a top-tier unit, and we’re getting there.”
Johnson’s determination and confidence reflect the urgency with which he’s approaching the task. Since taking over as defensive coordinator, Johnson has worked to improve a defense that has struggled in recent seasons. While the Bears have made notable strides, particularly in their pass rush and secondary, Johnson’s goal is to elevate this defense to the next level, where it can compete with the league’s elite teams.
The Bears' defense has shown flashes of brilliance, with standout performances from players like Roquan Smith, Robert Quinn, and rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon. However, consistency has been the biggest challenge. Johnson understands that in order for the Bears to truly become a force to be reckoned with, they need to eliminate mistakes and put together a complete, well-rounded unit.
“We’ve got the talent,” Johnson continued. “It’s about cohesion, discipline, and consistency. The players are buying in, and they’re hungry to improve. Once we get everything clicking, we’ll be a defense that no one wants to face.”
Johnson’s approach to defense is built on fundamentals and hard work, but it also emphasizes the mental aspect of the game. He believes that in order to dominate on the field, the defense must be smart, adaptable, and relentless. “We’re going to make adjustments on the fly,” Johnson explained. “We’ll throw different looks at offenses, and we’ll be able to get after the quarterback, shut down the run, and make big plays in key moments. That’s the vision I have for this defense.”
As the Bears look ahead to the remainder of the 2025 season, Johnson’s words have ignited optimism among players and fans alike. With several key pieces in place, the defense is poised to make significant improvements under his guidance. Johnson’s blueprint for success is all about creating a defense that not only shuts down opposing offenses but also has the ability to change the course of games.
“It’s about more than just stopping the other team,” Johnson said. “It’s about sending a message. When teams face us, they’ll know they’ve been in a fight. We’ll make them uncomfortable, and we’ll force them to think twice before they challenge us.”
For the Bears, the time is now to elevate their defense and live up to the expectations that Johnson has set. With his leadership, the team is on track to become one of the most feared defensive units in the league, and the entire organization is ready to back that vision up with action.
Steelers Aren't Interested in Jakobi Meyers' Price Tag
The Pittsburgh Steelers have had their eyes on a number of wide receivers this season, with Las Vegas Raiders' Jakobi Meyers being one of them. Pittsburgh has called Las Vegas, but right now, they're not interested in their asking price.
According to The Athletic's Dianna Russini, the Steelers and Buffalo Bills have made sure to call the Raiders to try to land their starting wide receiver. However, those calls have ended without a deal, as Pittsburgh is not interested in the current price tag for trading for him.
"The Raiders have fielded calls from the Steelers and Bills on WR Jakobi Meyers, but Las Vegas has set a high price. Pittsburgh is looking at other wide receiver options, too," Russini writes.
Steelers Want a Reasonable Starter
The Steelers want a wide receiver who can come in and be a reliable partner DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III. They aren't looking for the biggest blockbuster trade they can find, although they wouldn't turn down the right opportunity.
In an ideal world, they'd be able to land a name that works well as their WR2/3 with Austin but doesn't cost much. Many believed Meyers would be that name as he's been asking for a trade out of Las Vegas all season and is on the last year of his contract.
Apparently not. If the Steelers weren't interested in the asking price, chances are that it was somewhere around a Day 2 or early Day 3 pick. For a player who is about to turn 29 years old and has had just one 1,000-yard season, the price tag may be a little too high.
Other Options
The Steelers have been linked to wide receivers like Miami Dolphins' Jaylen Waddle, New Orleans Saints' Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed and Tennessee Titans' Calvin Ridley. Waddle is now expected to be on the market after the Dolphins fired their general manager. While Olave is trying to get a new contract done in New Orleans, Shaheed is believed to be on the trade block. Ridley may be out in Tennessee as the Titans rebuild, but comes with a lengthy contract worth just under $30 million per season.
Any of those names could end up in Pittsburgh, and general manager Omar Khan hasn't been afraid of making a splash on the market this season. So, if the price tag is right for another option outside of Meyers, don't be surprised if the Steelers end up making a move at the deadline.
