Ben Johnson’s gutsy roster decision shows he knows what he’s doing despite the Bears coming up short against the Rams
The Chicago Bears decision to shakeup the offensive line proved to be a smart call by Ben Johnson.
Few coaches in the NFL have gotten more out of the 53-man roster, and practice squad, this season than Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson.
Every week, it’s a different player stepping up and becoming a hero for this team. Against the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Divisional Round, that player was offensive lineman Jordan McFadden making his first start of the season at left guard.
It was a bold decision by Johnson to switch up the offensive line after losing left tackle Ozzy Trapilo last week, but it’s a decision that paid off in a big way against a stout defensive front.
Ben Johnson proves the critics wrong starting Jordan McFadden, moving Joe Thuney to LT
When it was reported on Saturday that the Bears were considering a major switch up on the offensive line with All-Pro left guard Joe Thuney kicking over to left tackle in place of Trapilo with McFadden potentially taking his place, there were a lot of skeptics.
The doubters had some valid concerns. The Bears had an experience left tackle ready to take over in Theo Benedet. Thuney hadn’t played left tackle since Super Bowl LIX and even then looked shaky in that game. As for McFadden, he had played just two offensive snaps for the Bears during the regular season. But, the Bears felt strong about this decision throughout the week.
First, shout out to McFadden earning this opportunity. McFadden is a player the Bears considered putting on the trade block before roster cuts to try and get something out of a player they saw something in but couldn’t justify keeping. Instead, McFadden made his way back to the team’s practice squad and in December was signed to the 53-man roster. He continued developing behind the scenes and building up that trust with the coaching staff to warrant this move.
As for Thuney, he’s never been a player to say no. Just like last year, his team had an emergency and he immediately stepped up for his team. He’s an All-Pro for a reason, and it has nothing to do with what position he’s lining up at.
“We just thought Joe had a great anchor and he would be able to help us in that regard,” Johnson said after the loss. “Credit to him. Of course, he’s done it and he’s willing to do whatever is necessary to help the team win.”
Both players more than held their own against a really talented defensive front. It was a great call by Johnson and offensive line coach Dan Roushar for not only making this decision, but having the players ready to step up and produce in such a game.
Chicago Bears News
NFL sends a loud message, slamming Bears defender for repeat offense against Packers QB Jordan Love
Chicago Bears defensive end Austin Booker just got hit with another massive fine by the NFL.
