💔🥲 “I’VE NEVER FELT THIS BAD SINCE I BECAME A COACH” Coach Ben Johnson made this heartbreaking statement after the Chicago Bears’ bitter 17-20 defeat to the Los Angeles Rams. Even more shocking was Ben Johnson’s revelation of when he will leave the Chicago Bears, leaving many fans disappointed.

Since being hired as head coach of the Chicago Bears, Ben Johnson has faced the toughest moment of his young NFL head-coaching career after a heartbreaking 20-17 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Rams. The defeat in the NFC Divisional Round on Sunday night ended a season that had shown immense promise under his leadership, and Johnson’s postgame remarks reflected deep disappointment and frustration with the outcome.

Johnson’s Bears had nearly pulled off a stunning comeback late in regulation thanks to a dramatic touchdown by rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, driving the game into overtime and offering hope to the home crowd at Soldier Field. However, a costly interception in the extra period set up a 42-yard field goal by the Rams’ Harrison Mevis that ultimately sealed Chicago’s fate.

In his postgame press conference, Johnson acknowledged the emotional weight of the loss, emphasising both how hard his team fought and how agonizing it was to fall just short of the NFC Championship. He praised his players’ resilience throughout the season, but admitted that the sting of this particular defeat was unlike any he had experienced since becoming head coach.

Reflecting on the nail-biting contest, Johnson spoke candidly about the team’s mindset and the narrow margins that decided the game. He credited the Rams for making the crucial plays when it mattered most and pointed to key moments where the Bears’ offense failed to capitalize, including stalled goal-to-go situations that might have changed the course of the game.

Despite the pain of elimination, Johnson did not shy away from acknowledging the growth he has witnessed in his squad over the course of the season. Coming into the year, expectations were tempered after several years of disappointing results for the franchise, but the Bears rallied to finish with an 11-6 record and win the NFC North.

Johnson’s emotional reaction was unmistakable, as he described the mixture of frustration and pride he felt toward his players. The journey of the season, marked by dramatic comebacks and determined performances, had built a strong bond within the locker room, making the abrupt end even more painful to accept.

The Bears’ defensive unit, despite being battered by injuries earlier in the season, delivered one of its best performances in the playoff loss, holding the Rams below their regular-season averages and forcing several stops. Yet, it was not enough to overcome costly mistakes and turnovers at critical junctures.

In interviews after the game, Johnson repeatedly emphasised that he was proud of the effort his players put forth, even if the final result was deeply disappointing. He spoke about being “frustrated” and “hurt,” but also about being inspired by the character and belief his team showed week in and week out.

Addressing the future, Johnson resisted talking too much about what comes next, making it clear that he and his staff were still processing the loss before shifting focus toward offseason planning. “Next season is next season,” he said, underlining his commitment to returning stronger and building on the foundation laid this year.

Rumors surrounding coaching changes often swirl after playoff eliminations, but there has been no official indication from the Bears’ management that Johnson is on the brink of departure. Instead, the focus within the organization appears to be on learning from this season’s highs and lows and using that experience as motivation for growth in 2026.

Fans and analysts alike are split between disappointment over the abrupt end and optimism about what Johnson’s leadership could mean for the franchise’s future. Many point to the team’s resilience, competitive spirit, and dramatic comeback moments this year as evidence of a cultural shift under his stewardship.

Johnson’s emotional response to the loss underscores just how deeply invested he is in his team’s success. It was clear from his comments that this defeat hurt him personally, perhaps more than any challenge he has faced in his coaching career to date.

As the Bears prepare for the offseason, Johnson’s message to players, staff, and supporters is one of gratitude mixed with resolve. He expressed appreciation for the sacrifices and commitment of everyone involved, reiterating his belief that the lessons learned this season will serve the team well in future contests.

While the loss marked an emotional low point, Ben Johnson’s tenure with the Chicago Bears is far from over. His postgame remarks and outlook suggest a coach determined to evolve, to build from adversity, and to guide his team back into contention in the seasons ahead.

“Every loss feels personal,” he said. “I carry it home, I think about it all night, and it stays with me until the next game kicks off.”

As rumors about potential replacements begin to circulate, the Bears’ front office has yet to issue an official statement regarding Johnson’s future, keeping supporters anxiously waiting.

For now, Johnson insists he will remain fully focused on preparing the team for their upcoming fixtures, determined to end the season on a positive note regardless of his personal decision.

Whether this emotional confession marks the beginning of the end for Ben Johnson at Chicago Bears remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: this painful defeat will not be forgotten anytime soon.