WATCH: Ben Johnson says that running backs are a 'highly motivated group'

Tony Crumpton · Senior Editor · Thursday, July 24 2025

Head coach Ben Johnson addressed the media before practice on Thursday at Halas Hall and talked about the highly motivated running back group and more:

Video summary/cliff notes:

Injury Updates

(00:01) Luther is still dealing with a lingering soft tissue issue — he's day-to-day.

Shamar Turner sprained his ankle and Zay Frasier is excused for personal reasons.

Practice Intensity & Time Crunch

(00:39) The first team wasn't kicked out of practice — it was just a matter of staying on schedule. Johnson emphasized every minute and rep is valuable.

Accountability on Execution

(01:19) Sloppy huddles and execution won’t be tolerated. It's a collective issue, not just Caleb’s. Johnson said the team is receptive and knows the standard.

Luther’s Progress & Readiness

(02:21) Despite being sidelined, Luther is staying engaged through meetings and walkthroughs. There’s no substitute for full-speed reps, though.

Running Backs Room

(03:16) The RBs are coachable and motivated 💪. Benemy is intense, and the players respond well. Swift is in shape and extending plays — this room hears the outside criticism and uses it as fuel.

Training Camp Progress

(04:13) Johnson was pleased with Day 1 of camp. Defense was aggressive, offense was finishing plays. Pre-snap operations are improving.

Philosophy on Game Planning

(04:55) Johnson doesn’t stick to a fixed run-pass ratio. Inspired by the Patriots’ adaptability, he wants to keep defenses guessing and adjust based on talent and matchup.

Offensive Design & 12 Personnel

(06:27) Having two strong tight ends opens up creative play-calling, echoing the old Patriots style. Flexibility is key, and Johnson wants to exploit matchups.

DeAndre Swift’s Mindset

(07:36) Swift is internally motivated and dissatisfied with last year. He’s determined to make a bigger impact this season.