The relationship between an NFL head coach and his players is often described as the most critical dynamic within a franchise. It's built on trust, communication, and respect--intangibles that don't always show up in a win-loss column but fundamentally shape a team's culture and trajectory. For the Chicago Bears, a new report offers a quantifiable, and highly encouraging, glimpse into that dynamic under head coach Ben Johnson.
According to a leaked NFL Players Association (NFLPA) survey reported by Patrick Finley of the Chicago Sun-Times on February 26, 2026, Johnson received an 'A' grade from Bears players. This marks a stark and significant improvement from the 'C' grade awarded to his predecessor, Matt Eberflus, in Eberflus's final season with the team in 2024. The survey, conducted anonymously by the NFLPA, gauges player sentiment on a wide range of working conditions, with coaching being a central component.
While the Bears organization has not officially commented on the leaked results, the 'A' grade serves as a powerful external validation of the cultural shift General Manager Ryan Poles and Chairman George McCaskey envisioned when they hired Johnson. It's a data point that speaks volumes, suggesting Johnson has successfully connected with his roster in a way that fosters a positive and productive environment.
Understanding the NFLPA Survey and Its Weight
Before diving into the implications for the Bears, it's important to understand what this survey represents. The NFLPA's annual team report cards are more than a simple popularity contest. They are a comprehensive assessment from the players' perspective, covering categories like treatment of families, nutrition, weight room facilities, training staff, and, crucially, the head coach and strength coaching. The coach grade specifically evaluates leadership, communication, strategic competency, and willingness to listen to player feedback.
For players, this is a rare and protected opportunity to voice their honest opinions without fear of reprisal. An 'A' grade, therefore, is a strong indicator of widespread locker room buy-in. It suggests players believe in Johnson's vision, feel heard by his staff, and trust his daily process. In a league where marginal gains are everything, a united, motivated, and respected locker room is a tangible competitive advantage.
The Johnson Effect: From 'C' to 'A'
The contrast between Johnson's 'A' and Eberflus's final 'C' is impossible to ignore and tells a story of organizational evolution. Matt Eberflus, who coached the Bears from 2022 through the 2024 season, left amid a period of transition centered around roster turnover and questions about offensive direction. The 'C' grade reflected those dynamics, coinciding with the trade of star pass rusher Roquan Smith in 2024, a highly scrutinized move that unsettled part of the locker room.
Johnson's arrival in early 2025 signaled a new direction, especially on offense, which had struggled for consistency. Known for his innovative, aggressive scheming and his ability to develop quarterbacks from his previous role as an offensive coordinator, Johnson brought a specific, modern philosophy to Halas Hall. The survey results indicate that this philosophy isn't just drawn up; it's effectively communicated and embraced by the men who execute it.
This improvement isn't just about a new voice. It's about the substance of that voice. An 'A' grade implies players find Johnson to be clear in his expectations, adaptable in his approach, and supportive of their development. In today's NFL, players are astute football minds themselves; they recognize competent coaching. The high mark suggests they see that competency in Johnson every day.
Context Within the Bears' Current Landscape
This report emerges at a promising time for the Bears. The team is building around young quarterback-caliber talent, including offseason addition Caleb Williams (#18), along with other offensive pieces like DJ Moore (#2), and a defensive front featuring players like linebacker Tremaine Edmunds (#49) and safety Jaquan Brisker (#9).
General Manager Ryan Poles continues to reshape the roster with draft picks and strategic acquisitions, working alongside Johnson to establish a cohesive culture. A head coach who scores highly with players is an invaluable asset in that building process.
A positive culture accelerates development. Young players are more likely to embrace coaching, put in extra work, and play through adversity when they believe in their leader. Veterans provide stability and mentorship. For a team pursuing playoff contention in the highly competitive NFC North, this internal harmony is fuel. It can help the Bears weather the inevitable storms of a long season, turn close losses into wins, and attract free agents prioritizing a supportive work environment.
Furthermore, this grade validates the decision-making of Poles and team leadership. Hiring a head coach is the most consequential choice a front office makes. A leaked 'A' grade, while unofficial, is an early report card on that choice itself. It suggests the leadership identified not just a skilled tactician but a leader capable of unifying and inspiring an NFL roster.
What an 'A' Grade Does and Does Not Mean
It is crucial, however, to maintain perspective. An 'A' in player relations is a fantastic foundation, but it is not a guarantee of wins. The ultimate grade for any coach is still recorded on the scoreboard each Sunday. History is littered with coaches who were beloved by their players but failed to achieve sustained success. The challenge for Johnson is to translate this strong interpersonal credit into strategic victories.
The good news for Bears fans is that the traits that earned this 'A'--communication, clarity, adaptability--are the same that contribute to in-game success. A coach who listens might adjust game plans based on player insights about opponents. Clear communication ensures everyone is aligned in critical moments. The survey grade and on-field performance, while distinct, often go hand in hand.
This leak also places subtle pressure on the organization. Player expectations are now publicly calibrated as high. The Bears must continue to support Johnson in fostering this environment. This includes providing necessary resources from facilities to support staff that complement top-tier coaching. The NFLPA surveys grade entire organizations, and a strong head coach score raises the bar for every department.
Looking Ahead for Johnson and the Bears
For Ben Johnson, this leaked grade is a significant vote of confidence as he prepares for the 2026 season. It solidifies his standing within the locker room before a single snap of training camp has been taken, giving him credibility both inside the team and in the public eye.
For the Bears, it represents positive momentum in an offseason often defined by speculation and uncertainty. While building a championship roster is complex and ongoing, knowing the man leading the charge has the full faith of his players is a monumental piece of the puzzle. It allows the focus to remain squarely on football, not managing internal discord.
The NFLPA survey results paint a picture of a franchise that has successfully stabilized one of its most vital pillars: the head coach-player relationship. From the 'C' grade of the past to the 'A' of the present, the arc is clear. Ben Johnson has passed his first major test in Chicago not in the press box, but in the locker room where it matters most. The next challenge is to build a winning record that matches the high marks his players have already given him.