Ben Johnson, the new head coach for the Chicago Bears, is seeking guidance from his colleagues as he transitions from offensive coordinator with the Detroit Lions. He recognizes the increased responsibilities that come with being a head coach, particularly in managing the overall team alongside his offensive duties. In a recent discussion with Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor, Johnson aimed to extract wisdom on balancing playcalling with broader coaching responsibilities.

Johnson emphasized the importance of not getting 'lost in the fog' that often accompanies head coaching roles. He aims to leverage Taylor's experience since he has navigated similar challenges effectively since becoming a head coach in 2019. With hopes to revitalize the Bears franchise, Johnson has also recruited veteran coach Dennis Allen as his defensive coordinator to bolster his leadership team.

The Cincinnati Bengals are set to overhaul their offseason approach under head coach Zac Taylor, aiming to address the team's slow starts in recent seasons. The coaching staff plans to ramp up intensity during spring workouts, focusing on football IQ and situational awareness to better prepare players ahead of training camp. Taylor emphasized the importance of getting players involved in understanding the playbook and fostering team camaraderie.

Key changes include an increase in playing time for starters during preseason games, aiming to alleviate the issues that have plagued the Bengals, particularly their 0-3 start last season. The new strategy seeks to balance injury prevention while ensuring players are game-ready, a shift from prior, less impactful offseason practices.

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor remains optimistic about safety Geno Stone, despite concerns surrounding his performance last season. Stone, who was brought in to replace Jessie Bates, faced challenges but showed improvement as the 2023 season progressed. Taylor emphasized that the defensive unit's tackling needs to enhance and indicated that they'll continue to develop Stone while also increasing Jordan Battle's role in the lineup. After a rough start, the defense began to adapt, aided by a simpler scheme and a more manageable schedule. The Bengals are banking on Stone's development as they navigate coaching changes within the team.

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a pivotal offseason, particularly at the guard position, following the release of Alex Cappa. The team re-signed Cody Ford and retained Cordell Volson, who will be under competition for starting roles alongside veteran Lucas Patrick, signed to a one-year deal. Head coach Zac Taylor has hinted that the Bengals will look to the NFL Draft to address these needs and emphasize the importance of finding suitable linemen who can be developed over time, as they have struggled with the offensive line in recent years.

Despite Joe Burrow leading one of the NFL's most prolific passing offenses last season, the Bengals' interior protection has been a concern, especially with Burrow taking 48 sacks and facing significant pressure. Taylor is cautious about naming starters prior to the draft but anticipates bolstering the offensive line as a priority with six draft picks in hand.