After a disastrous season with Matt Eberflus, the Chicago Bears decided to go a new route; hiring Ben Johnson as the next head coach. After spending the 2024 season as Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, Johnson was widely regarded by many as the top head coaching candidate this offseason. For once, it seems the Bears have made the right choice at head coach.
Bear down: Chicago is finalizing a deal to hire Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as its next head coach, sources tell ESPN. Bears are getting their man. pic.twitter.com/UwlLk3wNJZ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 20, 2025
Chicago Bears Hire Ben Johnson as Next Head Coach
Ben Johnson is the perfect hire to lead Caleb Williams. His strategic and methodical offensive schemes, paired with the respect he commands from players, bring a much-needed shift in Chicago. The Bears have been overdue for a young, innovative offensive mind, and Johnson fits that mold.
He took over as the Lions’ offensive coordinator in 2022 and turned the offense into one of the best in the league. Johnson is known for being able to get the best out of players, notably helping Jared Goff. Goff’s passer rating soared from 91.5 to 102.7 under Johnson. All the trick plays, unique schemes and methodical approaches will transform the Bears’ offense in no time. Especially with a QB of Williams’ stature.
It’s obvious why the Bears made the hire; it’s a match made in heaven between Johnson and Williams. Johnson had some high praise for Caleb during the season, stating:
“There’s no question this guy is talented. I remember standing on the sideline last game, and you can hear the ball whistle by you. He’s got quite a fastball and has some creativity to him. Can extend plays and is accurate down the field as well.”
Williams didn’t directly mention Johnson’s name, but when asked what qualities he would like to see from his next head coach, here’s what he had to say:
“I would say just challenge me. Whether it’s pulling me aside and saying whatever or having talks consistently, or maybe not. Maybe having a list of things we want to accomplish, myself first, because that helps the team. From there, help find ways to set other goals. However, it may work out, just challenge and find ways to help better myself but also better the team. I don’t have an issue with being challenged, I don’t have an issue with speaking truth between coach and I, or whoever it may be. Whichever way that happens, whichever way it shapes, is the way it goes.”
Outlook Going Forward With Ben Johnson
So what should Bears fans expect? They should expect a coach who is thorough, detail-oriented, and committed to keeping everyone aligned. While there will inevitably be challenges that come with a first-time head coach, taking a chance on Johnson could pay off for the Bears. From drafting a franchise quarterback to bringing in a coach with the potential to mirror the success of Sean McVay or Kyle Shanahan, the future looks bright for the Bears.
Main Image: Lon Horwedel – USA Today Sports
