Bears Debut Under Johnson Amid Injury Concerns in Season Opener

Lead The Chicago Bears hosted the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field on Monday night, featuring coach Ben Johnson’s debut and standout receiver D.J. Moore active despite a hit secondary and key defenders sidelined.

Nut Graf Monday’s primetime clash marks the beginning of a new era for the Bears under Johnson, with quarterback Caleb Williams making his second NFL start and Chicago leaning heavily on its revamped offense to overcome defensive injuries and set a positive tone for the season.

Key Game Details

  • Date & Time: Monday, Sept. 8, 2025, at 8:15 p.m. ET
  • Location: Soldier Field, Chicago, Ill.
  • Broadcast: ESPN; streaming on Fubo

Offensive Focus and Moore’s Role Ben Johnson plans to feature D.J. Moore as his primary target, banking on Moore’s reliability and route-running to spark Chicago’s passing game. After narrowly missing a 1,000-yard season last year, Moore is expected to see heavy usage against Minnesota’s secondary, providing Williams with critical weapons in the opener.

Defensive Injuries Raise Concerns Chicago’s defense enters the game shorthanded:

  • Cornerback Kyler Gordon (hamstring) is listed as questionable after Sunday’s late addition to the injury report.
  • Linebacker T.J. Edwards is doubtful, further depleting a unit already adjusting to Johnson’s schemes. The Bears will rely on backups and situational packages to contain Vikings No. 1 receiver Justin Jefferson.

Ben Johnson’s Debut Challenge Johnson inherits a team eager to shake off a ten-game losing streak from last season and prove its competitiveness. His offensive philosophy emphasizes a balanced attack with a strong running game, but Monday’s opener will test his ability to protect Williams and generate big plays in a hostile divisional matchup.

Looking Ahead With the Vikings’ defense known for pressure packages, Chicago’s rebuilt offensive line must hold up to allow play-action and deep shots to develop. Success in Week 1 could validate offseason changes and boost confidence in Johnson’s long-term vision.