INDIANAPOLIS — Throughout the interview process, new Bears coach Ben Johnson impressed general manager Ryan Poles not only with his ideas about establishing a scheme, but specifics on how to find the right players for it.
As Johnson comes aboard, Poles and the personnel department are adjusting to incorporate his criteria to build a roster that fits his plans. And so far, Johnson appears to be a significant asset in that area and a clear upgrade over predecessor Matt Eberflus.
“His ability to really give a clear vision of what he wants and needs to be successful has been really, really good,” Poles said Tuesday morning at the NFL Scouting Combine. “The high football IQ is on a totally different level than what I’ve seen and been a part of before, so it’s really good.”
Johnson, 38, is a first-time head coach, but had autonomy and significant influence the last three season as Lions offensive coordinator. He offers far more expertise on personnel than Eberflus or former offensive coordinators Luke Getsy and Shane Waldron.
The Bears can begin reshaping their roster when free agency starts March 10, and they have the fourth-most salary-cap space in the NFL at a minimum of $77.8 million. Then, in April, they have three draft picks in the first two rounds at Nos. 10, 39 and 41 overall.
