Johnson Praises Tomlin Ahead of Bears-Steelers Matchup Amid Ramsey Controversy
In the lead-up to the Chicago Bears’ weekend clash with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bears head coach Ben Johnson expressed profound admiration for his counterpart Mike Tomlin, particularly highlighting Tomlin’s remarkable consistency throughout his career. “The fact that he hadn’t had a losing season. It’s incredible. It’s absolutely incredible to think that he’s been a head coach as long as he has and just keeps churning out wins,” Johnson remarked during his pre-game press conference. This respect extends beyond mere win-loss records—Johnson specifically praised Tomlin’s leadership style and ability to maintain accountability among his players, qualities that have defined Tomlin’s lengthy tenure in Pittsburgh.
Johnson’s comments took on additional significance as they came in the wake of a controversial incident involving Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey during the previous week’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Ramsey had been ejected after grabbing Ja’Marr Chase’s facemask and subsequently punching him—actions Ramsey claimed were provoked by Chase spitting on him. In addressing this situation, Johnson explicitly supported Tomlin’s handling of the matter, stating, “His reaction to it, I mean, he’s 100% right as far as I’m concerned,” and adding that Tomlin “hit the nail on the head” in his assessment of the incident. This endorsement suggests Johnson appreciates Tomlin’s straightforward approach to player conduct, even in contentious circumstances.
The incident itself had become a focal point of NFL discussions after the league reviewed the allegations and ultimately suspended Chase, lending credence to Ramsey’s claims despite his initial ejection from the game. When asked about the situation, Tomlin had been characteristically measured yet clear, telling reporters: “It’s an unfortunate incident. It’s not an act that’s common to the game of football, it’s nothing to do with football. And so, I’m not going to comment on it. The NFL office rendered their judgment on it and so we’re moving on.” This response exemplifies Tomlin’s tendency to acknowledge issues while simultaneously redirecting focus back to the upcoming challenges—a leadership trait that has served him well throughout his coaching career.
Perhaps most revealing was Tomlin’s candid response when pressed about what guidance he had offered Ramsey following the incident. “I have no message if someone spits in your face. Do what comes natural,” Tomlin stated plainly, suggesting an understanding of human reaction while stopping short of explicitly endorsing retaliation. This statement reflects Tomlin’s pragmatic approach to leadership—acknowledging the reality of human emotion while maintaining professional standards. Such transparency appears to have resonated with Johnson, who as a first-year NFL head coach likely views Tomlin’s sixteen-year tenure without a losing season as a gold standard for coaching longevity and success.
The mutual respect between these coaches adds an interesting dimension to Sunday’s matchup, which already carries significant implications for both teams. The Steelers are heading to Chicago with uncertainty surrounding quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is dealing with a broken wrist but may still take the field. This situation presents another challenge for Tomlin to navigate—balancing the immediate needs of competition against the long-term health considerations of a key player. How Tomlin handles this decision will likely be closely observed by Johnson, who appears to view the veteran coach as something of a model for sustainable success in the pressure-cooker environment of NFL leadership.
Beyond the immediate context of this weekend’s game, the Johnson-Tomlin dynamic illustrates how coaching philosophies and approaches to player management circulate throughout the league. Johnson’s public endorsement of Tomlin’s handling of the Ramsey incident suggests an appreciation for clear boundaries and straightforward communication—qualities that successful organizations typically prioritize. As Johnson works to establish his own coaching identity in Chicago, his admiration for Tomlin’s consistent success and leadership style provides insight into the values he hopes to instill within his own program, potentially laying groundwork for a coaching legacy that might someday rival that of the respected Steelers leader he’ll face across the sideline this Sunday.
