Story by
Jaylon Johnson kept it real about Bears' performance vs. Bengals
- Story by
- Jaylon Johnson kept it real about Bears' performance vs. Bengals
The Chicago Bears had their fair share of struggles in the Week 2 preseason loss to the Cincinnati Bengals last Saturday, especially on the defensive end where they struggled throughout the game.
While Chicago's offense put up numbers close to Cincinnati's offense -- outside of points -- their defense struggled mightily, allowing 346 total, 282 of which were through the air between Josh Johnson and Sean Clifford, who both had passing touchdowns.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Chicago's secondary is a big question coming into the regular season, especially with the injuries to safety Coby Bryant and cornerbacks Kyler Gordon and Tyrique Stevenson, and the unit struggled this past Saturday against Cincinnati. After the game, top cornerback Jaylon Johnson got brutally honest said no one on defense played well, including the starters that were out on the field.
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) warms up before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) warms up before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson looks on before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears center Logan Jones (54) warms up before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears offensive tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. (71) blocks during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Sam Roush (87) makes a catch during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears guard Caden Barnett (76) blocks during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Josh Johnson (11) pitches the ball during the second quarter against the Chicago Bears at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Dohnte Meyers (81) runs with the ball against Chicago Bears cornerback Cam Lewis (21) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Colbie Young (86) catches a pass for a touchdown against Chicago Bears cornerback Dontae Manning (27) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Colbie Young (86) catches a pass for a touchdown against Chicago Bears cornerback Dontae Manning (27) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg (96) makes a tackle against Cincinnati Bengals running back Kentrel Bullock (31) during the second quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Colbie Young (86) catches a touchdown pass over Chicago Bears cornerback Dontae Manning (27) during the second quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver JP Richardson (83) makes a catch against Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Josh Newton (28) during the first quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Josh Johnson (11) runs the ball during the first quarter against the Chicago Bears at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Mitchell Tinsley (82) runs after a catch against Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson (1) during the first quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver JP Richardson (83) makes a catch against Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Josh Newton (28) during the first quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) during the first quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) runs with the ball against Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Shaka Heyward (50) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) snaps the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) holds the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Josh Johnson (11) runs with the ball the Chicago Bears in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Case Keenum (11) hands the ball off to running back Roschon Johnson (23) in the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Jahdae Walker (9) catches a pass against Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Josh Newton (28) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson (23) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Jahdae Walker (9) reacts after a play in the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Jahdae Walker (9) catches a pass against Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Josh Newton (28) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears running back Salvon Ahmed (36) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Case Keenum (11) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Miller Moss (16) evades the pass rush of Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Isaiah Foskey (51) during the fourth quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears guard Jordan McFadden (74) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Jamree Kromah (59) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Sam Roush (87) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears offensive tackle Kiran Amegadjie (72) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) stands on the sidelines during the second half in the game against the Cincinnati at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Sean Clifford (4) throws a pass against the Chicago Bears in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Malik Muhammad (24) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson stands on the sidelines during the second half in the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Kaden Davis (27) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears place kicker Cairo Santos (8) stands on the sidelines during the second half in the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat (98) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears safety Skyler Thomas (38) intercepts the ball intended for Cincinnati Bengals tight end Jack Endries (84) in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears safety Dillon Thieneman (31) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (85) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Maurice Alexander (13) makes a catch against Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Matthew McDoom (41) during the fourth quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Miller Moss (16) throws a pass against the Cincinnati Bengals in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears guard Kyle Hergel (60) snaps the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears punter Tory Taylor (19) reacts after punting the ball in the second half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Omari Kelly (82) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears safety Xavier Woods (23) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) calls a play in the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo (55) brings down Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Josh Johnson (11) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
1
/55
Devin Bush shares his impression of Bears QB Caleb Williams
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) warms up before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
1
/55
Devin Bush shares his impression of Bears QB Caleb Williams
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) warms up before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
2
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) warms up before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
3
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson looks on before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
4
/55
Chicago Bears 53-man roster for 2026 season
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears center Logan Jones (54) warms up before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
5
/55
Bears release former first-round pick in contention for starting job
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears offensive tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. (71) blocks during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
6
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Sam Roush (87) makes a catch during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
7
/55
Predicting the Chicago Bears' 2026 practice squad
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears guard Caden Barnett (76) blocks during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
8
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
9
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Josh Johnson (11) pitches the ball during the second quarter against the Chicago Bears at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
10
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Dohnte Meyers (81) runs with the ball against Chicago Bears cornerback Cam Lewis (21) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
11
/55
Good, bad and ugly from Bears' preseason loss vs. Bengals
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Colbie Young (86) catches a pass for a touchdown against Chicago Bears cornerback Dontae Manning (27) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
12
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Colbie Young (86) catches a pass for a touchdown against Chicago Bears cornerback Dontae Manning (27) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
13
/55
Chicago Bears 53-man roster for 2026 season
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg (96) makes a tackle against Cincinnati Bengals running back Kentrel Bullock (31) during the second quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
14
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Colbie Young (86) catches a touchdown pass over Chicago Bears cornerback Dontae Manning (27) during the second quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
15
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver JP Richardson (83) makes a catch against Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Josh Newton (28) during the first quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
16
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Josh Johnson (11) runs the ball during the first quarter against the Chicago Bears at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
17
/55
Jaylon Johnson kept it real about Bears' performance vs. Bengals
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Mitchell Tinsley (82) runs after a catch against Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson (1) during the first quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
18
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver JP Richardson (83) makes a catch against Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Josh Newton (28) during the first quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
19
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) during the first quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
20
/55
5 under-the-radar players you need on your fantasy football team
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
21
/55
Devin Bush on what it's like going against Bears TE Colston Loveland
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) runs with the ball against Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Shaka Heyward (50) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
22
/55
Caleb Williams lays out Bears' focus in final preseason game vs Titans
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) snaps the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
23
/55
Ben Johnson sounds off on Caleb Williams-Colston Loveland incompletion
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) holds the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
24
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Josh Johnson (11) runs with the ball the Chicago Bears in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
25
/55
Bears 53-man roster prediction after second preseason game
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Case Keenum (11) hands the ball off to running back Roschon Johnson (23) in the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
26
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Jahdae Walker (9) catches a pass against Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Josh Newton (28) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
27
/55
Ben Johnson believes Bears RB Roschon Johnson is breaking through
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson (23) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
28
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Jahdae Walker (9) reacts after a play in the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
29
/55
Chicago Bears 53-man roster for 2026 season
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Jahdae Walker (9) catches a pass against Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Josh Newton (28) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
30
/55
Bears waive preseason standout running back among roster cuts
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears running back Salvon Ahmed (36) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
31
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Case Keenum (11) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
32
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Miller Moss (16) evades the pass rush of Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Isaiah Foskey (51) during the fourth quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
33
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears guard Jordan McFadden (74) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
34
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Jamree Kromah (59) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
35
/55
Chicago Bears 53-man roster for 2026 season
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Sam Roush (87) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
36
/55
Ryan Poles explains why Bears moved on from Kiran Amegadjie
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears offensive tackle Kiran Amegadjie (72) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
37
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) stands on the sidelines during the second half in the game against the Cincinnati at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
38
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Sean Clifford (4) throws a pass against the Chicago Bears in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
39
/55
Chicago Bears 53-man roster for 2026 season
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Malik Muhammad (24) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
40
/55
Ben Johnson shares update on Bears' battles at left tackle and safety
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson stands on the sidelines during the second half in the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
41
/55
Colston Loveland explains why Bears fans should be excited for future
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
42
/55
Final predictions for the Bears' 53-man roster
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Kaden Davis (27) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
43
/55
Richard Hightower explains what Cairo Santos brings to Bears
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears place kicker Cairo Santos (8) stands on the sidelines during the second half in the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
44
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat (98) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
45
/55
Chicago Bears 53-man roster for 2026 season
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears safety Skyler Thomas (38) intercepts the ball intended for Cincinnati Bengals tight end Jack Endries (84) in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
46
/55
Colston Loveland already sees growth in Bears rookie Dillon Thieneman
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears safety Dillon Thieneman (31) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
47
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (85) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
48
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Maurice Alexander (13) makes a catch against Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Matthew McDoom (41) during the fourth quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
49
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Miller Moss (16) throws a pass against the Cincinnati Bengals in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
50
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears guard Kyle Hergel (60) snaps the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
51
/55
Chicago Bears 53-man roster for 2026 season
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears punter Tory Taylor (19) reacts after punting the ball in the second half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
52
/55
Bears vs. Bengals: Photos from Chicago's Week 2 preseason loss
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Omari Kelly (82) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
53
/55
Bears insider shares latest on starting safety spot
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears safety Xavier Woods (23) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
(Joseph Maiorana, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
54
/55
Caleb Williams confident that Bears are trending in right direction
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) calls a play in the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
55
/55
Chicago Bears 53-man roster for 2026 season
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo (55) brings down Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Josh Johnson (11) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
(Katie Stratman, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
"Not good enough, even the first group," Johnson said, via Devan Kaney of FOX Chicago . "We didn't get off [the field] on third down, we allowed them to drive the ball on us. We did a good job as far as the first team not letting them get in [the end zone] but not to our standards. We have to get off on third down, and just overall take some of the big plays off, we had some blown coverages that we have to clean up. We just have to be on one accord."
There is still plenty to work on for the Bears defense, especially as they work around the injuries that are hampering them in the secondary, and they've got one more preseason game to get it right. The pending health of Gordon and Stevenson will be big for the secondary, which will be without Bryant for most of the regular season, giving defensive coordinator Dennis Allen more to work on with who he has available with him.
Follow Bears Wire on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram
This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Jaylon Johnson kept it real about Bears' performance vs. Bengals
