LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) — More than anything else, first-year Bears head coach Ben Johnson's hope during the offseason program was to set a standard for his team. That chapter of work ended Wednesday with the Bears' final practice of OTAs at Halas Hall.
Johnson and his new Bears coaching staff led the team through two months of work in Lake Forest, including nine practices for OTAs and a three-day veteran minicamp last week. As the Bears now break for six weeks before reconvening for training camp, Johnson is pleased with what they accomplished.
“When these guys walk away, they understand what the expectation level is,” Johnson said Tuesday. “I hope that they also understand our coaching staff a little bit better as well. We haven’t fully come together as a unit – a full team yet, just offense, defense, special teams – but I think we made some headway there in getting to know each other. Because, really, training camp is going to be a lot about building trust. And I think we got a head start there. But when we come back, it’ll be the fundamentals, the techniques.
“I’m pleased with the progress we’ve made over the last few weeks. We’ve got a lot of work still to come, but we’re right on track.”
Hired by the Bears in January, Johnson has been tasked with leading a team that struggled last season. Chicago endured a 10-game losing streak during a 5-12 campaign. During that slide, players called upon their coaches to push them harder.
Johnson has led with a demanding style that has left a strong impression on the Bears. With that, the players are following along.
"This isn't a program where it's like you're trying to be guys' friends,” Bears veteran defensive tackle Grady Jarrett said. “Hopefully they buy in. (But) you got to get with it. I've been around for a long time, and that's the kind of culture you have to set early. Because when the expectations are high, that's what you want."
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.