Ben Johnson, the Bears coach, just can’t seem to leave Jared Goff’s mobility alone, dropping another apparent jab about it last night. This isn’t some fresh controversy; we’ve seen this playbook before. All the way back in early 2025, Johnson openly compared the raw, dynamic mobility of Caleb Williams to Goff’s distinct *lack* of it on the field. It was a clear, direct shot that got everyone talking. Johnson, naturally, tried to play it down back then, explaining that his comments got “skewed a little bit” and that it “was not a shot at Jared.” He even claimed he’d “talked to Jared about it” and that Goff “certainly understands that,” insisting the whole thing “was more directed towards Caleb and what he brings to the table.” Sounded like damage control, didn’t it? But fast forward to last night, and it looks like Johnson just ripped that band-aid right off.
The “Not So Mobile” Sequel Hits Different
When the media pressed Johnson about the different playing styles between Caleb Williams and Case Keenum, he didn’t even hesitate. He dropped a line that screamed “Goff!” without having to say the name: “Well, I’ve got a little history with that, of calling plays for someone not so mobile.” Seriously, who else could he be talking about? We all know Goff isn’t out there breaking 40-yard dash records. Nobody expects him to be Usain Bolt. But Johnson’s delivery this time? That’s what really makes you pause.
The source explicitly notes that Johnson “smirked a couple of times while the question was being asked.” He “knew exactly what he was going to say,” and even better, he “seemed to enjoy it.” That’s not an accident; that’s a conscious decision. There’s a “refreshing cheekiness” to Johnson that definitely shone through, making it clear this wasn’t some slip of the tongue. He even piled on, adding another remark about how this is the “first time in his career as a play-caller” that he’s working with such different styles. This isn’t just a pattern; it feels like an ongoing narrative, one Johnson is absolutely relishing.
What Johnson’s Cheekiness Means
So, what does this recurring jab tell us about Ben Johnson? He’ll likely trot out the same old explanation, insisting it wasn’t a dig, just an observation. But for us watching the league, it paints a pretty clear picture of his personality. This isn’t about Goff’s actual speed; everyone knows it. This is about Johnson’s comfort with a bit of playful provocation, a willingness to be a little cheeky in public. It suggests a coach who enjoys the mind games, maybe even thrives on creating a little buzz. It might not change how Goff plays on Sunday, but it sure adds a unique layer to Johnson’s public persona and how the league perceives him going forward. You gotta wonder if this “refreshing cheekiness” will always be so refreshing.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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