Bears

• Bears HC Ben Johnson said they found out about C Drew Dalman‘s plans to retire in February, when they quickly pivoted to Garrett Bradbury, who he thinks “will fit us like a glove.” (Courtney Cronin)
• Johnson is uncertain about Ozzy Trapilo‘s health in 2026 after his ruptured patellar tendon, and said it’s hard to see what the LT position will look like in five years. (Cronin)
• Regarding OT Braxton Jones, Johnson said he looked “yolked” as he’s up to 310 pounds this offseason. (Cronin)
• Johnson called new OC Press Taylor “the most organized coach I’ve ever been around,” and brought up his “library of plays” to attack each coverage variation. (Cronin)
• New S Coby Bryant impressed Johnson with a “holy cow, it-factor” regarding his leadership abilities, which will be important with S Kevin Byard‘s departure. (Cronin)
• Johnson admitted it was tough to form relationships with CBs Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon last year because of the time they missed with injuries. He said, “We’re starting over completely this spring,” with the relationships, so he can get to know them better. (Cronin)

Packers

Micah Parsons said shortly after tearing his ACL in Week 15 that he expects to miss the first 3-4 games of the 2026 season. When recently speaking to reporters, Packers HC Matt LaFleur said he’s hopeful Parsons won’t miss much action.

“I hope not,” LaFleur said, via Matt Schneidman of The Athletic. “We’ve got a plan. I don’t ever wanna put limitations on people, but obviously there’s a process, and the medical (staff) has to feel really good about it before we put a guy back out there coming off that significant of an injury.”

Parsons has been notably training with fellow Green Bay edge rushers Barryn Sorrell and Collin Oliver this offseason. Packers GM Brian Gutekunst has been pleased with Parsons growth as a leader. 

“When you acquire a player, you never really 100 percent know when they enter your environment, how that’s gonna be,” Gutekunst said. “I couldn’t be happier with how he’s embraced Green Bay, embraced our teammates and his teammates, the leadership he’s shown. He’s all football. I think that’s the thing for me that’s been exciting to see: where he’s gonna go as a Green Bay Packer.”

Packers TE Tucker Kraft has also been recovering from a torn ACL. Gutekunst mentioned that he’s always at the team facility to work on his rehab and is eager to return. 

“He’s there all the time,” Gutekunst said. “He’s doing really well, as well. Another huge part of our team. Both those guys — would’ve been nice to see how that back end of the season would have unfolded if they were there and a few others. Those guys are true pros. They’re very eager to get back. There’s a lot in front of them.”

Vikings

The Vikings signed veteran QB Kyler Murray, despite not being viewed as a perfect fit for HC Kevin O’Connell‘s offense. O’Connell doesn’t think Murray gets enough credit for getting into a rhythm and playing within a structure. 

“I don’t think he’s gotten enough credit for playing in rhythm,” O’Connell said, via Alec Lewis of The Athletic. “We all recognize some of the highlight-reel ability that he has. … But I think sometimes what we don’t recognize is the third-and-7 right before the huge scramble play.”

O’Connell is confident Murray will help add wrinkles to their offense. 

“Kyler is dynamic in the keeper game and movement game with his natural athleticism,” O’Connell said. “I see a lot of ways that we’ll be able to continue the evolution of our offense in Year 5.”

As for J.J. McCarthy, Minnesota owner Mark Wilf said they still have confidence in the third-year quarterback. 

“I think J.J. has a bright future ahead of him,” Wilf said. “He’s incredibly talented. We certainly have confidence in J.J. McCarthy, and I know Coach (O’Connell) does as well.”