Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson prepares for opener against Carolina Panthers
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 8:02 PM
Last updated Sep 11, 2026
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson returns to North Carolina this Sunday for the team's season opener against the Carolina Panthers. Johnson, an Asheville native and former University of North Carolina quarterback, led the Bears to an 11-6 finish and an NFC North title during his first full season in 2025. The Chicago coaching staff has focused on improving performance in end-of-half situations throughout the preseason, aiming to increase scoring opportunities and limit retaliatory drives from opponents. While Johnson expressed a professional focus on his team's game-day processes, he acknowledged the personal significance of the location for his family. The Bears enter the matchup looking to build on a 2025 campaign that featured seven late-game victories, including a wild-card win over the Green Bay Packers. Quarterback Caleb Williams continues to lead the offense as the team begins its attempt to secure another postseason berth.
- •Ben Johnson returns to North Carolina for the Bears season opener this Sunday.
- •The Bears finished with an 11-6 record and an NFC North title in 2025.
- •Chicago is prioritizing improved scoring and clock management during end-of-half situations.
- •Johnson previously played quarterback at the University of North Carolina.
- •The Bears won seven games while trailing in the final two minutes last season.
- 8:02 PMYahoo Sports — Bears coach Ben Johnson returns to North Carolina for Week 1 matchup with the Panthers
"Johnson leads the Bears into North Carolina for their season opener against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. The 40-year-old Johnson grew up in Asheville and was a walk-on quarterback at the University of North Carolina, earning degrees in mathematics and computer science. Of course, the hard-driving Johnson is a little too busy to appreciate the moment.
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