Bears' Joe Thuney makes highlight catch as Ben Johnson ends practice with recess

Perhaps a prelude of trick plays to come, Chicago Bears' head coach Ben Johnson ended practice with offensive linemen acting as wide receivers.

Jul 24, 2025; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson speaks during training camp at Halas Hall. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images | Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

During his first training camp as head coach of the Chicago Bears, Ben Johnson has proven stern. He's a serious man with a complex offense and when his players - even star quarterback Caleb Williams - need calling out, he delivers the criticism.

But Johnson has also shown his fun side, teasing fans with a couple of his signature trick plays during a public practice at Soldier Field and ending Thursday's workout at Halas Hall with something that had to be seen to be believed.

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Are you ready for 6-foot-3, 320-pound Jonah Jackson going out for a pass and being covered by 6-1, 340-pound Andrew Billings?

Jonah Jackson vs. Andrew Billings 1v1 is the greatest thing you’ll see all day 😂pic.twitter.com/UsrJCFw8tP

— FanDuel Sportsbook (@FDSportsbook) August 14, 2025

The Bears ended practice with a bizarre drill. Offensive linemen were receivers; defensive linemen served as defensive backs. The results were predictably hilarious.

Right tackle Darnell Wright ran what was supposed to be a fade route, then somehow jumped up and outfought Montez Sweat for a catch. Jackson actually got behind Billings, waived his hand to signal he was open, but then failed to catch the pass that he got both big mitts on.

Joe Thuney routes up Grady Jarrett😂 pic.twitter.com/2oWztwT4M0

— Bears Flash (@bears_flash) August 14, 2025

The sweetest move was executed by starting guard Joe Thuney, who created separation at the line with a jab-step crossover on defender Grady Jarrett before catching the pass on a short crossing route. Bears' offensive players went absolutely bonkers after Thuney's play.

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Last week Johnson switched roles, with the defensive big men playing receiver. It's all fun and games, but in Detroit Johnson was known to design passes to offensive linemen on a regular basis.

So maybe the Bears are merely hiding in plain sight.

Aug 13, 2022; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman Joe Thuney (62) blocks against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Chicago defeated Kansas City 19-14. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images | Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images