"Not A Big Deal": Ben Johnson shrugs off Tom Brady conflict of interest talk ahead of Bears-Raiders Week 4 clash

Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson is not losing sleep over Tom Brady’s dual role as a Fox Sports broadcaster and minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. Ahead of Sunday’s matchup with the Dallas Cowboys, Johnson addressed growing speculation that Brady’s access to pregame production meetings could hand the Raiders an advantage when Chicago travels to Las Vegas next week.

Ben Johnson says Tom Brady’s role is no distraction

When asked if he would be more guarded with information while speaking to Brady before kickoff, Johnson made it clear nothing would change in his approach.“I’ve been careful [with] everything I’ve said since the season started,” Johnson told reporters. “I’ve been in pure coach speak mode. So me, it’s just business as usual. I’m just fine. I like Tom and we have a really good relationship.”

The questions stemmed from Brady’s recent appearance in the Raiders’ coaching booth during their Week 2 loss to the Chargers, where he was spotted wearing a headset.

While the optics drew criticism, the NFL clarified that Brady did not break any rules. The league reminded teams that Brady is barred from entering facilities but is allowed to attend production meetings remotely or conduct off-site interviews.Johnson, however, downplayed any potential conflict of interest. “We change week-to-week in terms of what we do,” he said. “Schematically, he’s gonna be able to turn on the tape and see what everyone else in the world’s seeing right now.”

The coach even joked about the notion of giving away secrets. “It’s not like I’m going to sit down with him and tell him, ‘Hey, don’t do this to Caleb Williams or you might get a…’ There’s not going to be any trade secrets that are going to be exchanged. But I really don't think it's that big of a deal to be honest with you.”

Tom Brady applauds Johnson’s ‘common sense’

Brady, who has yet to issue a detailed response about the controversy, finally broke his silence after hearing Johnson’s comments. On a Sports Illustrated Instagram post, he wrote, “Thank you for some common sense! Finally a smart coach speaks up!”

The exchange highlighted how both men view the matter as overblown. While some teams remain uneasy about Brady’s unique position, Johnson insists the Bears are staying focused on football. After hosting Dallas this weekend, Chicago will head to Las Vegas for a Week 4 showdown with Brady’s Raiders — a matchup that is already drawing national intrigue.Also Read: Brittany Mahomes shares adorable video of baby Golden in Patrick Mahomes’ 30th birthday celebration tribute