Ben Johnson was 'smitten' by Bears rookie center Logan Jones

Heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears were expected to look into a long-term option at center following Drew Dalman's surprise retirement this offseason. And they did just that with the selection of Iowa center Logan Jones in the second round.

Head coach Ben Johnson said the Bears were "smitten" by Jones during the pre-draft process, and when getting their pick of centers with the 57th overall pick, Jones was the clear choice for all.

“We were really smitten with Logan throughout the process," Johnson said. (Offensive Line Coach) Dan Roushar, (Assistant Offensive Line Coach) Kyle DeVan, went out and went to several places this springtime to make sure we could identify the guys that we felt really good about. Obviously, Logan was at the top of the list for us. And so, we felt convicted as a staff, coaching staff and personnel side, that he was our guy."

Johnson raved about Jones as a player, including his work both in the run game and pass protection. Center is one of the most important positions in Johnson's offense, so this selection speaks volumes about Jones' long-term fit.

"The mental is top notch," Johnson said. "We saw all the traits that we're looking for, whether it's the run game or in pass-pro, and we brought him in for a top 30, and I think that's when it really solidified it for us that ‘yeah, he's got the makeup.’ The guys at Iowa were raving about him, and then just the next level in terms of the football IQ as well. So, I think none of us have any qualms that he'll be able to download the information and, once again, it's just another spot that we'll have high level competition at.”

While the Bears acquired veteran Garrett Bradbury via trade before free agency, Jones will get an opportunity to compete for the starting job as a rookie. As a prospect, Jones was labeled a Day 1 starter, so it wouldn't be a surprise to see him beat out Bradbury, who was acquired for a 2027 fifth-round pick and has just one year left on his deal.

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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears HC Ben Johnson was 'smitten' by rookie center Logan Jones