Bears Insider Reveals Ben Johnson’s Major Role in 2026 NFL Draft
New insight from Brad Biggs reveals Ben Johnson’s growing power over the Chicago Bears’ 2026 NFL Draft strategy.
If there was ever any doubt about who’s shaping the Chicago Bears roster, consider it gone.
Head coach Ben Johnson isn’t just part of the conversation heading into the 2026 NFL Draft. He’s driving it.
That reality came into sharper focus this week when Brad Biggs shared insight during his appearance on 104.3 The Score, making it clear that Johnson’s voice carries real authority inside Halas Hall.
“He has set the tone in that building,” Biggs said. “They’re not going to pull the trigger on some draft pick of a player he doesn’t want. He’s heavily involved.”
Ben Johnson’s Influence on the Bears’ Draft Is Real
Around the NFL, it’s becoming more common for head coaches to wield significant influence on draft night. In Chicago, that balance has long appeared to lean toward general manager Ryan Poles.
But behind the scenes, this is a fully aligned operation.
MORE: Chicago Bears Enter 2026 NFL Draft With No Clear Plan at No. 25
Poles still runs the front office. Johnson isn’t overriding personnel decisions. Yet when it comes to final calls, especially on offensive players, the Bears are clearly operating with Johnson’s vision in mind.
And after what unfolded in 2025, it’s easy to understand why.
Results Have Earned Ben Johnson a Bigger Voice
Johnson didn’t just arrive in Chicago with hype. He validated it immediately.
The Bears captured the NFC North title for the first time since 2018 and came within reach of an NFC Championship appearance. That kind of turnaround doesn’t just elevate a roster. It elevates credibility.
Inside the building, it also shifts power dynamics.
Johnson’s track record as one of the most coveted coaching hires in recent memory already commanded respect. Now, it demands influence.
The 2025 Draft Already Showed the Blueprint
If you’re looking for proof of concept, rewind one year.
The Bears’ 2025 draft class was widely viewed as one of the franchise’s strongest in recent memory, and Johnson’s fingerprints were all over it. First-round tight end Colston Loveland was widely regarded as a scheme fit. The offensive additions didn’t stop there.
- Luther Burden III
- Ozzy Trapilo
- Kyle Monangai
Each move reflected a clear offensive identity. Speed, versatility, and players who fit Johnson’s system.
That trend isn’t going away.
What It Means for the Bears in 2026
As the Bears prepare to make their pick at No. 25, one thing is certain: no offensive player will be selected without Johnson’s full endorsement.
That doesn’t mean Chicago will force an offensive pick. Defensive needs remain real, and Poles has consistently shown discipline in sticking to his board.
But if the Bears do lean offense, it will be intentional. It will be targeted. And it will be aligned with the system Johnson is building around Caleb Williams.
The Bears' Bottom Line
For years, Bears fans questioned the alignment between the coaching staff and the front office. That concern doesn’t exist anymore.
This is a unified operation with a clear identity, and Johnson is at the center of it.
Heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, that’s not just reassuring. It’s a competitive advantage.
