The final whistle has blown on the Chicago Bears’ mandatory minicamp, sending players into a much-needed summer break. This week at Halas Hall provided crucial insights into the team’s progress under Head Coach Ben Johnson, whose unwavering emphasis on “details” is clearly shaping the new culture.
While early minicamp practices had their ups and downs, the clear highlight emerged on Wednesday as rookie quarterback Caleb Williams reportedly delivered a “stellar” performance, igniting further optimism for the upcoming season.
With key position battles still brewing and players recovering from minor injuries, let’s dive into the final takeaways from minicamp and what lies ahead as the Bears prepare for training camp.
Minicamp Concludes: The Bears’ mandatory minicamp concludes on Thursday, June 5th, providing the coaching staff with a final look at the roster before a summer break leading into training camp. The focus throughout the three-day session has been on refining the new offensive and defensive schemes and continuing the “details” emphasis of head coach Ben Johnson.
Caleb Williams’ Stellar Performance: Reports from Wednesday’s practice (Day 2 of minicamp) indicate that Caleb Williams had a particularly sharp day. Sources suggest he “electrified” the minicamp with dazzling quarterback skills and that the game seemed to “slow down” for him, indicating improved game awareness and decision-making. This is a significant positive development after some “up and down” moments earlier in the week.
Jaquan Brisker Returns & Reflects: Safety Jaquan Brisker was a prominent voice from Wednesday’s sessions, expressing gratitude for being back on the field with his teammates. He reflected on his past concussion history, highlighting the support he received from his teammates during his absence.
Injury Updates: While attendance was near full, some players continued to be sidelined with soft-tissue injuries, including linebacker T.J. Edwards, cornerback Kyler Gordon, and wide receiver Luther Burden III. Rookie tight end Colston Loveland is still recovering from shoulder surgery. Cornerback Jaylon Johnson and safety Elijah Hicks had excused absences on Wednesday.
Situational Drills: Ben Johnson and his staff switched over to more situational drills on Wednesday, providing a more realistic practice environment as they continue to install their systems.
Left Tackle Battle Continues: The competition for the starting left tackle spot remains a key storyline. Rookie Ozzy Trapilo and Kiran Amegadjie are still taking reps with the first-team offense while Braxton Jones recovers. True evaluation for this position is expected to happen when pads come on in training camp.
Special Teams Focus: While not a primary focus of minicamp reports, there’s ongoing discussion about the special teams unit, particularly the kicking competition between Cairo Santos and Jonathan Kim. Some sources suggest Ben Johnson might favor a kicker with more leg strength for longer field goals.
Ben Johnson’s Demanding Approach: Players continue to praise and acknowledge Ben Johnson’s intense focus on “details” and high expectations. The message about knowing the playbook inside and out and being “on your Ps and Qs” is resonating throughout the locker room.
Summer Break: Following minicamp, players will have a break before reporting for training camp in late July. This period will be crucial for players to continue their individual preparation and further digest the new schemes.
Training Camp Battles: Many of the ongoing position battles, especially at left tackle and backup quarterback, will intensify once training camp begins and full-contact practices are allowed.
Unsigned Rookies: The status of the unsigned second-round rookie draft picks (Luther Burden III, Shemar Turner, and Ozzy Trapilo) remains a point of interest, as contract disputes over guaranteed money continue.
