Ben Johnson’s move to the Chicago Bears was quickly followed by images and videos of a well-groomed, energized new coach eager to get started. Fast-forward 49 days, though, and Johnson was pictured looking noticeably less sharp.
The image of a tired, worn-down coach has sparked a flurry of reactions, with some fans concerned about the former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator.
Chicago Bears HC Ben Johnson Looking Worse for Wear
After Johnson appeared at his latest press conference looking considerably less rested than when he first signed with the Bears, the internet reacted predictably. Within hours, pictures from the event were all over timelines, accompanied by jokes, digs, and concerned comments.
It's been 49 days since Ben Johnson was announced as the Chicago Bears Head Coach. 😂 pic.twitter.com/XJ9K1z1QCW
— Greg Braggs Jr. (@GBraggsJr23) March 13, 2025
Johnson looked far removed from the clean-cut, vibrant young coach who arrived in Chicago to turn the franchise around. Instead, he looked like someone who had endured some sleepless nights. However, Johnson did receive support from a notable voice — “Good Morning Football” host Kyle Brandt.
Brandt responded to the chatter about Johnson’s appearance, “Good. He should look like that. That’s a man working.”
And Brandt has a point. The Bears have been one of the most active teams this offseason, trading for Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney before securing a deal with former Atlanta Falcons lineman Drew Dalman. Johnson likely played a key role in these moves, having benefitted from one of the NFL’s best offensive lines in Detroit. Caleb Williams took the most sacks among all quarterbacks in 2024, and protecting him better will be a top priority for Chicago moving forward.
Johnson’s Look Sparks Mixed Reactions From Fans
Brandt wasn’t the only one reacting positively to the images. Comment sections were filled with excited Bears fans, confident that their new coach had been working hard behind the scenes. Chicago has made just two playoff appearances in the last 14 seasons, finishing in the bottom two of the NFC North in 11 of those years. The hiring of Johnson — coupled with the team’s focus on improving the offensive line — has fans feeling optimistic.
One fan pointed to Johnson’s look as that of a man on a mission.
He’s on a mission
— Christian McCullough (@ctmccullough853) March 13, 2025
Another fan agreed, suggesting that the Bears’ future is looking up. “Bro just locked in ready to win Super Bowls.”
Bro just locked in ready to win super bowls
— The Bears Burner (@TheBearsBurner1) March 13, 2025
But not everyone saw it that way. Some questioned whether Johnson’s health was taking a hit. “He does not look well.”
He does not look well
— Michael Abrahamzon (@itsmike0226) March 13, 2025
Regardless of the speculation surrounding Johnson’s appearance, it’s clear that his arrival in Chicago is already making an impact. Bears fans are energized, and the team has taken significant steps to improve. Time will tell if the excitement is warranted, but for now, there’s plenty of optimism in the Windy City.