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Head Coach Ben Johnson Paused the Celebration After the Decisive Playoff-Clinching Win — A Message That Left Chicago Silent

Chicago, Illinois – December 22, 2025

The final whistle echoed through Soldier Field, sealing a 22–16 overtime victory for the Chicago Bears over the Green Bay Packers. It wasn’t just another chapter in one of the NFL’s fiercest rivalries — it was the decisive win that officially clinched a playoff berth for the Bears.

The stadium erupted. The biting December cold was no match for the roar of a fan base that had waited years for this moment. Chicago didn’t simply beat Green Bay — the Bears reclaimed belief, reclaimed pride, and pried open the door to January football with their own hands.

But in a moment that usually belongs to pure celebration, head coach Ben Johnson chose to stop.

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There was no victory lap. No chest-thumping. Johnson stood still, scanning the sea of navy and orange that filled the stands, and delivered a message that was measured, heartfelt, and deeply human — as if he understood exactly what had truly been won that night.

“Beating Green Bay right here means something different,” Johnson said. “The people in these stands waited, endured, and never turned away — through the freezing cold and through the hardest years. Tonight isn’t just a win. It’s about pride, belief, and giving this city the moment it has patiently waited so long to receive.”

On the field, the Bears played as if the season depended on it — because it did. They trailed, absorbed pressure, and stared down an opponent that had haunted them for decades. This time, Chicago didn’t fold. They pushed back, forced overtime, and delivered the finishing blow that sent Soldier Field into disbelief.

It wasn’t perfect football.
It was fearless football.

A gritty, uncompromising performance that decided the fate of the season.

For the Bears, this playoff berth represents far more than a single game. It is the culmination of a long rebuild marked by painful losses, public doubt, and years spent chasing relevance — often falling short against the very opponent they conquered on this night. Above all, it is a reward for a fan base that never left.

The scoreboard will forever show 22–16 and a playoff clinch.

But the moment that will linger longest is the one when Ben Johnson halted the celebration to say thank you — a reminder that Chicago didn’t just win a game.

The Bears announced their return to where they believe they belong: the NFL playoff stage.

BREAKING: Chiefs Among Top Landing Spots for Former $141 Million Future Hall of Fame Pass Rusher
Kansas City, Missouri – January 2026 Kansas City Chiefs are reportedly one of the top landing spots for Khalil Mack, a former $141 million edge rusher, as he is set to hit free agency in the spring. The 34-year-old player, widely regarded as a future Hall of Famer, is expected to be a top target for teams looking to add a veteran pass rusher to their roster, and the Chiefs could be a perfect fit. After spending the past few years with the Los Angeles Chargers, Mack had a solid 2025 season, recording 5.5 sacks and 39 quarterback pressures. While Mack may not be the dominant force he once was, he remains a top-tier pass rusher and a leader with invaluable experience, potentially providing a significant boost to the Chiefs' defense, which is already formidable. According to Zachary Pereles from CBS Sports, the Chiefs could be a leading contender for Mack’s services. “Mack would be a perfect addition to Kansas City, a team that’s already stacked on offense but could use another strong presence on defense. The Chiefs have the salary cap flexibility to bring in a veteran like Mack without making a major financial commitment, making him an ideal fit for their Super Bowl aspirations,” Pereles said. The Chiefs have established themselves as one of the NFL's elite teams, particularly on offense, but adding a veteran presence like Mack could provide that extra edge needed on defense. His leadership and ability to disrupt quarterbacks would be a valuable asset as Kansas City pushes for another Super Bowl title. However, the Chiefs won’t be the only team competing for Mack’s services. Other teams like the Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, and Carolina Panthers are also interested. The Bears and Bengals have specific defensive needs, while the Panthers have multiple positions to fill on their defense. “Chiefs is an organization with a rich history and a bright future. They have an incredible offense, but I know I can help elevate their defense to the next level. I want to be part of something special and bring that championship mentality to a team that’s already so close to greatness. If I’m given the chance, I will do everything in my power to help the Chiefs win it all,” Mack shared. For Mack, the final decision will depend on the role he’s offered and which team is best positioned to contend for a Super Bowl in the coming years. But as the Chiefs continue their pursuit of another championship, they remain one of the most attractive landing spots for this veteran pass rusher.