Ben Johnson keeps Bears grounded amid NFL season hype

The start of a new NFL season gets some players overly excited, especially coming off a success run. That’s a cause of concern for Ben Johnson, and he is doing his best to keep the Chicago Bears grounded ahead of their Week 1 game.

The team won the NFC North last year with an 11-6 record and reached the Divisional Round. Johnson and Co. silenced their critics who doubted if they’ll be successful. The then-rookie head coach and Caleb Williams forged a strong bond on and off the field, showing the NFL world that they are the franchise’s long-term answers.

Expectations are even higher this season, and the Bears are ready to live up to them. They will open their campaign on Sunday with a road matchup with the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium.

Ben Johnson, Chicago Bears — Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson answers questions during a introductory press conference at PNC Center.

Ben Johnson speaks on how he keeps the Bears level-headed

Johnson addressed reporters on Thursday. He shared his message to his players before their first game of 2026.

“I think we’re more than anything, we’re just keeping it day to day right now,” Johnson said. “We’re just talking about that. Sure, we want to do we want to do big things this year. But really what’s most important to us is that we’re laying the foundation the right way. Talked about it this morning that it’s all about just having a great practice great meetings today.

“They understand that they’ve been through the gamut enough. And so everyone’s always amped up for this first game. It’s a long race here. We just need to bring consistent energy and attitude, effort throughout this thing, and we’ll be in good shape.”

Ben Johnson on managing the expectations of the Bears:

“We’re just keeping it day to day. Sure we want to do big things this Year, but we want to lay the foundation. Everyone’s amped up for this first game, we just need to bring consistent energy and we’ll be in good shape.”… pic.twitter.com/XPJdEsofnC

— BearsMuse (@ChiBearsMuse) September 9, 2026

A three-game homestand follows after their season opener. Chicago will take on the Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia Eagles and New York Jets at Soldier Field in Weeks 2, 3 and 4. The team will play seven primetime games this year.