The Bears' season marked a significant improvement over the previous year, but it's not enough to be considered truly great. Coach Ben Johnson has emphasized that the team needs to take their performance to the next level. The current roster has its strengths and weaknesses, with some areas requiring significant improvement.
Johnson's focus on building a championship-caliber team is evident in his desire for excellence over just making the playoffs. The coach believes that raising standards is crucial to achieving greatness, and he expects players to give more if they want to succeed.
The Bears' defense was ranked 29th in the regular season, while the offense struggled to score points in four games, including the final game of the season. The team's point differential was lower than multiple teams that missed the playoffs, indicating a need for improvement.
General manager Ryan Poles is also committed to building a winning team, with a focus on sustainability rather than just making a one-year push. He recognizes the importance of avoiding complacency and being willing to make tough decisions to improve the team.
Poles' approach is a departure from his predecessor Ryan Pace's strategy of taking risks and spending money to try to win now. Instead, Poles prefers a more measured approach, which may require patience but could ultimately lead to long-term success.
The Bears' path forward will involve making key roster decisions and identifying areas where they need to improve. With Johnson and Poles at the helm, the team is poised for continued growth and development.
Johnson's focus on building a championship-caliber team is evident in his desire for excellence over just making the playoffs. The coach believes that raising standards is crucial to achieving greatness, and he expects players to give more if they want to succeed.
The Bears' defense was ranked 29th in the regular season, while the offense struggled to score points in four games, including the final game of the season. The team's point differential was lower than multiple teams that missed the playoffs, indicating a need for improvement.
General manager Ryan Poles is also committed to building a winning team, with a focus on sustainability rather than just making a one-year push. He recognizes the importance of avoiding complacency and being willing to make tough decisions to improve the team.
Poles' approach is a departure from his predecessor Ryan Pace's strategy of taking risks and spending money to try to win now. Instead, Poles prefers a more measured approach, which may require patience but could ultimately lead to long-term success.
The Bears' path forward will involve making key roster decisions and identifying areas where they need to improve. With Johnson and Poles at the helm, the team is poised for continued growth and development.