The culture has shifted at Halas Hall. We know this to be true ever since Ben Johnson took over as head coach for the Chicago Bears.
Now, as they are in the midst of their offseason practices, we're seeing even more proof. Johnson's expectations are much higher than Bears coaches of the past. And, if one of the most recent practices is any indication, the Bears are still far from where they want to be.
"There was a lot of really, really good teaching tape today," Johnson told the Bears media after Friday's practice.
"We're not ready for prime time yet. I think that was loud and clear over the last three weeks of play, but that's to be expected as well. We knew that was going to happen," he finished.
Ben Johnson's subtle honesty is refreshing to hear from a Bears head coach
That was certainly a nice way to say his team is no where near up to snuff. He could've called it like it was in an even more blunt fashion. But, instead, Johnson took a more positive approach.
Regardless, it's refreshing to hear a Bears head coach not only give direct, honest answers and assessments but keep it relatively light. At the same time, Johnson is very sure of himself and his philosophies.
It all works together to give Halas Hall a completely different vibe. And, while this might come across as a more negative topic, it's far from that. The high expectations and tough coaching have led to strong progress from the likes of Caleb Williams among others.
We know what the Bears are going to get with Johnson. The expectations are clearly set and there has already been plenty of accountability being held.
While this team is far from being ready for prime time, Johnson did go on to note that he's going to use training camp to tighten things up. That's not earth-shattering news of course, as Johnson also stated there are supposed to be mistakes and learning curves early in the offseason.
In other words, Johnson's Bears are right on schedule and things are going according to plan. Now, if we hear of some lingering issues throughout training camp that continue to go unfixed, then there might be reason for fans to be concerned.
But for now, let's just say it's a good thing they're not going to be under the lights in the near future.