Bears Brass Discusses Roster at NFL Meetings

Podcast hosts analyze new offensive coordinator's comments on team's direction.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:40pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football field and players, with sharp, overlapping planes in navy, orange, and green, conceptually representing the Bears' offseason plans to reconstruct their offense.A cubist interpretation of the Bears' offseason strategy, as new coordinator Ben Johnson aims to rebuild the team's offense through a patient, long-term approach.Phoenix Today

In the latest episode of the 'Halas Intrigue' podcast, Chicago Sun-Times reporters Patrick Finley and Jason Lieser break down comments made by new Bears offensive coordinator Ben Johnson at the NFL Annual Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona. Johnson provided insights into the team's roster and plans for the upcoming season.

Why it matters

As the Bears look to rebound from a disappointing 2025 campaign, the comments from Johnson, a key member of the team's new coaching staff, offer valuable clues about the franchise's strategy and priorities heading into the 2026 NFL season.

The details

During the podcast discussion, Finley and Lieser analyzed Johnson's takes on the Bears' roster, including his thoughts on the team's quarterback situation and plans to build around certain offensive playmakers. The reporters also speculated on how Johnson's vision could shape the Bears' approach to the upcoming NFL Draft and free agency period.

  • The NFL Annual Meeting took place in Phoenix, Arizona from March 26-29, 2026.
  • The 'Halas Intrigue' podcast episode was published on March 30, 2026.

The players

Ben Johnson

The new offensive coordinator for the Chicago Bears, hired in the offseason to help revamp the team's struggling offense.

Patrick Finley

A reporter for the Chicago Sun-Times who co-hosts the 'Halas Intrigue' podcast, providing analysis on the Bears.

Jason Lieser

A reporter for the Chicago Sun-Times who co-hosts the 'Halas Intrigue' podcast with Patrick Finley.

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What they’re saying

“We have to build this thing the right way, and that's going to take some time. But I'm excited about the pieces we have in place and the direction we're headed.”

— Ben Johnson, Offensive Coordinator, Chicago Bears

What’s next

The Bears will continue their offseason program, including the NFL Draft in late April, as they look to address roster needs and implement Johnson's vision for the offense.

The takeaway

The comments from new Bears offensive coordinator Ben Johnson provide a glimpse into the team's plans to rebuild and retool their roster, suggesting a patient, long-term approach focused on developing young talent and establishing a clear identity on that side of the ball.