SI’s 2025 Chicago Bears Prediction: The Bleakest Start Possible to the Ben Johnson Era

In the annals of Chicago Bears history, few transitions have inspired as much hope and expectation as the hiring of Ben Johnson as head coach in 2025. Coming off years of inconsistency and frustration, Bears fans dared to dream that Johnson — an offensive-minded coach with a track record of innovative schemes — could finally ignite a resurgence in the Windy City. But as the 2025 season dawns, those dreams are quickly devolving into a nightmare.

Sports Illustrated’s season preview predicts a grim start for the Bears, a team stumbling into the future with little clarity, plagued by issues both old and new. If the early signs are any indication, the Ben Johnson era will get off on the wrong foot — possibly the bleakest start imaginable.

A Franchise in Transition — But Stuck in the Mud

The Bears entered 2025 carrying the weight of a decade-long drought from playoff relevance. The hiring of Ben Johnson was meant to represent a clean break from past failures, bringing fresh offensive ideas and modern leadership to a team that has often relied on brute defense and stale schemes.

Yet, the roster remains a patchwork of unproven talent and aging veterans. Key positional groups lack depth, and the much-anticipated quarterback competition failed to produce a clear answer. Johnson’s offense, though promising in theory, has yet to gel in practice — and the lack of a reliable signal-caller has only exacerbated the issues.

SI’s scouts and analysts agree: the Bears’ rebuild is still in its infancy, and the foundational pieces aren’t in place to contend in 2025.

Offense: Dysfunction at Every Level

Ben Johnson’s offensive philosophy emphasizes quick decision-making, creative play-calling, and a balanced attack. Yet, the 2025 Bears offense looks like anything but balanced or functional.

Quarterback Quandary

The Bears entered the offseason hoping to solidify their QB position, but instead, they remain mired in uncertainty. The presumed starter — a young, raw quarterback — has struggled mightily during training camp and preseason games. His mechanics are inconsistent, and his decision-making under pressure is shaky. Meanwhile, the veteran backup, signed to mentor the youngster, has shown limited ability to elevate the offense.

In practical terms, this means a revolving door at quarterback is likely early in the season, preventing any continuity or rhythm. Without a confident QB, Johnson’s offense will struggle to execute, putting the burden on the running game and defense.

Running Back Woes

Chicago’s ground game, historically a strength, has regressed. The lead back has battled injuries and inconsistency, and the offensive line is failing to open up meaningful lanes. The Bears ranked near the bottom in rushing yards and yards after contact during the preseason, a troubling sign for a team that still relies heavily on establishing the run.

Receiving Corps Struggles

The receiving corps lacks a true alpha threat. The top wideout, while serviceable, isn’t the type to consistently break games open. Supporting targets are either inexperienced rookies or role players who lack playmaking ability. Tight ends and slot receivers aren’t posing much of a threat either, leaving the QB few reliable options.

When combined, the offense looks predictable and easy to defend. Defensive coordinators around the league will feast on the Bears’ inability to threaten downfield or sustain drives.

Defense: Old Problems Resurface

The Bears’ defense was once the pride of the team — a physical, aggressive unit that frustrated opponents. However, that identity has eroded in recent years, and 2025 doesn’t promise a return to glory.

Pass Rush Problems

The once-feared Bears pass rush has dwindled. Key veterans who anchored the line have retired or moved on, and younger players haven’t stepped up. The lack of pressure on opposing quarterbacks allows offenses to dissect the secondary with ease. Without a reliable pass rush, the defense is forced into extended periods on the field, tiring out the front seven.

Secondary Breakdown

The secondary remains a glaring weakness. Injuries and inexperience plague the cornerbacks and safeties, leading to blown coverages and big plays allowed. Opposing offenses target the Bears’ secondary relentlessly, and the defense struggles to mask its deficiencies.

Run Defense Vulnerabilities

Ironically, even the run defense is suspect. Without consistent pressure and gap discipline, opponents are gaining chunks of yardage on the ground, keeping drives alive and draining the clock. The defense that once defined toughness is now often on its heels.

Coaching and Front Office: Growing Pains and Question Marks

Ben Johnson’s coaching staff is largely untested as a unit. While Johnson brings energy and innovation, the transition from coordinator to head coach can be rocky, and 2025 appears to be a trial by fire.

Questionable Play-Calling and Game Management

Early glimpses of the Bears’ play-calling have raised eyebrows. Conservative decisions on critical downs, clock management errors, and questionable challenge flags have plagued the team’s in-game adjustments. Johnson’s offensive vision isn’t translating to smart, effective execution on game days.

Roster Construction Challenges

General Manager Ryan Poles still faces criticism for roster construction. The team’s talent evaluation has been inconsistent, and high draft picks haven’t immediately translated into impact players. Salary cap constraints limit flexibility, and the lack of depth means injuries hit the Bears particularly hard.

Schedule and Opponents: A Brutal Opening Stretch

The Bears’ 2025 schedule compounds their woes. Early matchups against playoff-caliber teams place the young, struggling squad in a sink-or-swim scenario.

Opening against a top NFC contender, followed by a string of tough divisional games, leaves little margin for error. The Bears’ lack of confidence and cohesion will be tested, and SI projects a series of discouraging losses that could derail morale early.

Fan and Media Reaction: Patience Wearing Thin

Chicago’s notoriously passionate fan base is known for demanding excellence and showing little patience for mediocrity. After years of underperformance, the optimism that greeted the Johnson hiring has quickly faded.

Sports talk radio, social media, and local press outlets are already filled with criticism and frustration. Calls for roster shakeups, coaching changes, and front office accountability are growing louder.

Final Prediction: The Bleakest Possible Start

Sports Illustrated predicts the 2025 Chicago Bears will open the Ben Johnson era with a dismal 1-6 start.

Offense ranks in the bottom five of the league in yards per game and points scored.
Defense struggles to generate turnovers or pressure, ranking near the bottom in sacks allowed and points given up.
Injuries pile up, exposing lack of depth.
The quarterback carousel prevents offensive cohesion.
Morale and confidence erode, leading to on-field mistakes and mental errors.

While the Bears have the potential to improve later in the season, the initial stretch will feel like a nightmare — one that threatens to undo any momentum and test the patience of fans and management alike.

A Long Road Ahead

The Ben Johnson era was supposed to signal a fresh start and new hope. Instead, the 2025 season looks like a stark reminder of how far the Bears have to go.

Rebuilding an NFL team is never easy, but this season’s bleak beginning sets a challenging tone. The road back to relevance will require not only coaching adjustments and roster upgrades but also a cultural shift that embraces resilience and accountability.

For now, Chicago Bears fans can only hope this rough start is a lesson — not a trend.