

LAKE FOREST, Ill. – Things aren’t easy for Dillon Thieneman these days.
He’s still one of the Bears’ fastest and most athletic players. He’s still starting at safety. And he’s making more plays as the days add up in training camp.
But no player has felt the wrath of head coach Ben Johnson’s offense more than the first-round pick at Halas Hall.
Fight off a block from tight end Cole Kmet?
Do your best, Dillon.
See receiver Rome Odunze going in motion?
You better communicate that, Dillon.
Running back D’Andre Swift breaks into the second level?
Fill that alley, Dillon.
A quick screen pass to rookie receiver Zavion Thomas?
Go get your nose dirty, Dillon.
Veteran receiver Kalif Raymond races down the seam?
Use that speed of yours, Dillon.
Meet running back Kyle Monangai in the hole?
Match his physicality, Dillon.
Tackle receiver Luther Burden III in the open field?
That’s on you, too, Dillon.
Cover tight end Colston Loveland in the red zone?
Well, best of luck, Dillon.
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10 Comments (5 conversations)
Jcraft12
Great work Jahns!
Adam Jahns
AuthorThank you for reading!
Camazing5
Bear Down! Great piece by Jahns.
Adam Jahns
AuthorThank you!
Chad Howat
Jahns is great because he knows how to create a narrative. He’s a writer first, and the sports part comes next. He’s basically the Ben Johnson of journalism!
Adam Jahns
AuthorThanks Chad! Stories like these are the ones I enjoy writing.
Brian Shamy
Just finished reading this Jahns and I’m ready to run through a wall! I see what is happening from the outside, thanks for taking us inside. Great article
Adam Jahns
AuthorThanks Brian! Looking forward to delivering more behind-the-scenes stories for everyone.
charles han
Very informative article Jahns. I’m not a player for coach Johnson, but I cant help feel like I need to work harder in my everyday life. Coach Johnson inspires me like no other have in watching the bears for 35 years. 2026 will be a great for us all!
Adam Jahns
AuthorThanks for reading, Charles.