The Chicago Bears will have an early breather in the 2025 NFL season. The team’s bye week falls in Week Five, the earliest of any team this year. Bears coach ben Johnson views this as a strategic advantage, notably for a team undergoing notable changes.

A Month to Assess, a Week to Adjust

Speaking on The Herd, Johnson articulated his positive outlook on the early bye. He believes the timing provides a crucial opportunity for evaluation and adjustment.I actually like where that bye week is, as it usually takes about four weeks into the season to find out who you are as a team, what you do well, what you don’t do well, and that’s a good time so we can reflect on that as a coaching staff so we can hone in on what we want to be for the remaining three-quarters of the season, Johnson stated.

Building chemistry: Time is of the Essence

johnson acknowledges the challenges of integrating a new coaching staff and a host of new players. He emphasized that building team cohesion takes time. It can take up to half the season before they really start to mesh and come together, he noted, highlighting the importance of the early-season evaluation period.

Early Rest, Late-Season Push

While some coaches prefer later bye weeks to provide rest before a potential playoff run, Johnson believes the early break can set the Bears up for success. he sees it as an opportunity to refine their approach and increase their chances of being competitive late in the season. Johnson thinks the extra time off early in the season gives the Bears a better chance of being in the playoff hunt at the end of the season.

The Johnson Ideology: Adaptability and Growth

Coach Johnson’s viewpoint underscores a philosophy of adaptability and continuous improvement. By using the early bye week to thoroughly assess the team’s strengths and weaknesses, the Bears aim to establish a strong foundation for a prosperous season. This proactive approach reflects a commitment to maximizing the team’s potential despite the challenges of a transitional year.