LAKE FOREST, Ill. -- One month ago, when Ben Johnson was introduced as the head coach of the Chicago Bears, the 38-year-old directed a message to his quarterback, who sat in the front row at his news conference.
"This roster that [general manager Ryan Poles has] already built, it is stocked. It's loaded," Johnson said. "Everyone wants to talk about the quarterback, and Caleb [Wiliams] -- I'm excited to work with you -- but it's gonna take more than just you. And there are a lot of pieces already in place."
After finalizing Johnson's coaching staff, stacking their draft board and organizing scenarios for free agency, the Bears head to Indianapolis this week for the NFL combine with the hopes of building around Williams after a 5-12 record during his rookie season.