Bears CB Malik Muhammad’s debut draws strong words from Ben Johnson

The Chicago Bears fired on all cylinders on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. Several players impressed Ben Johnson and his coaching staff, particularly cornerback Malik Muhammad. The rookie received strong words from his head coach following his regular-season debut.

Muhammad entered the NFL as the No. 124 overall pick in the fourth round. He enjoyed a successful collegiate career with the Texas Longhorns from 2023 to 2025. The Dallas native earned second-team All-SEC honors last year. Chicago selected him to bolster its secondary, and he proved in Week 1 that he belongs in the league.

The 22-year-old finished with three tackles, including two solo efforts and one interception in the 59-37 win. He can carve out a bigger role as the season progresses if he continues to play at a high level.

Chicago Bears: Ben Johnson praises Malik Muhammad’s debut game performance

Johnson spoke highly of Muhammad for shining against Carolina. The second-year head coach expressed pride in what he saw from him despite playing in his first regular-season matchup.

“Sticky in coverage,” Johnson said. “Competed his tail off. Fearless. Was really proud of what he put on tape.”

Bears head coach Ben Johnson on CB Malik Muhammad’s NFL debut: “Sticky in coverage. Competed his tail off. Fearless. Was really proud of what he put on tape.”

— Kevin Fishbain (@kfishbain) September 14, 2026

Johnson, Muhammad and the Bears are now 1-0 and will play their next three games at Soldier Field. However, it won’t be easy to sweep all the assignments as they will face the Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia Eagles and New York Jets. All three teams won their Week 1 games and will test Chicago’s defense.

The good news is Caleb Williams picked up where he left off last season. Muhammad’s emergence as a reliable cornerback is also a welcome development for Johnson, giving him more weapons to utilize. The Bears are seeking to surpass last year’s achievements after winning the NFC North with an 11-6 record. They also reached the Divisional Round before losing 20-17 in overtime to the Los Angeles Rams.