Bears HC Ben Johnson turns heads with unexpected move before NFL season

Ben Johnson is a man of many talents. He is entering his second year with the Chicago Bears, serving as their head coach and someone who brings out the best from his players. The 40-year-old also made an unexpected move recently despite his busy schedule.

Johnson and Chicago will open their 2026 regular season on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. It’s the start to a crucial campaign where they’ll look to continue proving their doubters wrong. The team won the NFC North last season with an 11-6 record and reached the Divisional Round before losing 20-17 in overtime to the Los Angeles Rams.

The Bears now have their sights set on surpassing their 2025 achievements. It won’t be easy as they face a tough schedule, but momentum is on their side after last year’s success.

Ben Johnson, Chicago Bears — Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson addresses the media at Halas Hall before joint training camp practice with the Buffalo Bills.

Chicago Bears: Ben Johnson makes acting debut

Johnson made a cameo appearance on “Manningcast: Heist.” He is part of the star-studded cast of the 16-minute short film of the “Monday Night Football” alternate broadcast. It was released by Eli and Payton Manning to announce the schedule for its sixth season.

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Fans reacted to Johnson’s surprising inclusion.

“Needed more screen time,” a fan said.

“My glorious coach,” one comment read.

“They ain’t wanna look him in the eye lol,” a user wrote.

“Nothing he can’t do,” posted another.

“Marvel messed up not signing Ben to play Dr Doom,” another fan commented.

“Absolute cinema,” one reaction read.

Actors Anne Hathaway, Paul Rudd and Glen Powell, among others, made cameos. Additionally, Travis and Jason Kelce, Rob Gronkowski and Marshawn Lynch are also part of the cast.

The Bears will play two “Monday Night Football” games in the 2026 regular season. They will face the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 3 at Soldier Field, and the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field in Week 8.