Ben Johnson pinpoints dropped passes as the key to unlocking an even more explosive Bears offense, transforming near misses into game-changing plays.
The Chicago Bears flipped the script offensively under Ben Johnson compared to 2024 under Matt Eberflus.
Chicago averaged the fifth-fewest passing yards (208.9), eighth-fewest rushing yards (102) and fifth-fewest points per game (18.2) with Eberflus at the helm.
Fast forward to 2025, and the Bears were ninth in points (25.9), 12th in passing yards (234.8) and third in rushing yards per game (144.8).
Another significant change offensively was the number of sacks Caleb Williams took. As a rookie, he was sacked an NFL-leading 68 times. Williams was sacked just 24 times in 2025, ranking third in the league.
There were many positive changes in year one of Johnson's tenure, but dropped passes were a major problem at times.
You can look back at the 24-20 win over the New York Giants. While the Bears won the game, they had around eight dropped passes, some of which could've been touchdowns if caught.
At the end-of-season media availability, Johnson assured reporters that being better at catching the ball will be a point of emphasis when the team returns in the spring.
"We can still get better in some areas," Johnson said. "Like when I think about being fundamentally sound, we got to do a better job catching the football next year. And I can tell you right now that'll be a point of emphasis for us when they come back in the springtime."
This kind of issue may not seem like a big deal, but it can really have a negative impact over time. Being more fundamentally sound can go a long way in the future of this franchise.
The dropped passes proved more deadly, especially since the Bears were without Rome Odunze for a significant period due to a stress fracture in his foot, leaving little room for error.
After going 5-12 under Eberflus in 2024, Johnson got the Bears to the playoffs for the first time since 2020, and Soldier Field even hosted a postseason game for the first time since the 2018 season.
Chicago also won its first NFC North title since 2018. The Bears reached the Divisional Round this past season and have a lot to look forward to.
Dropped passes aside, the Bears are looking ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft in April, like many fans are. Chicago has the 25th overall pick, and predictions have already started to be made about what player it should take.
Even though the franchise made big strides in 2025, there is still room for improvement.