The Chicago Bears appoint Ben Johnson, former Lions offensive coordinator, as head coach. Johnson aims to develop Caleb Williams and revitalize the franchise’s future.
The Chicago Bears are making a bold move to secure their future, reportedly finalizing a deal to hire Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as their next head coach.
This hiring marks a pivotal step as the team builds around rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 draft.
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
A Strategic Hire
Johnson’s offensive expertise and familiarity with the NFC North make him a promising fit for Chicago.
His three-year tenure as Detroit’s offensive coordinator helped transform the Lions into a playoff contender.
Under his guidance, players like Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, David Montgomery, and Jahmyr Gibbs powered one of the league’s most dynamic offenses.
Chicago hopes Johnson can replicate that success with its own talented roster, which includes Caleb Williams, DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, Rome Odunze, Cole Kmet, and D’Andre Swift.
Williams flashed potential throughout his rookie season, and the Bears are betting on Johnson to nurture that talent into a long-term winning formula.
“This is one of the most critical hirings in franchise history,” a team source stated.
A Tumultuous 2024 Season
The decision to hire Johnson comes after a turbulent season for the Bears.
Expectations were high following Williams’ arrival and a promising 4-2 start, but a series of late-game collapses under head coach Matt Eberflus derailed their momentum.
Key moments included:
- A Week 8 loss to the Washington Commanders on a last-second Hail Mary.
- A blocked field goal in Week 11 against Green Bay after Eberflus chose not to run another play with a timeout available.
- A Thanksgiving defeat to Detroit, where poor clock management prevented a final scoring attempt.
Eberflus’ tenure ended after a contentious locker room exchange following the loss to the Lions.
Offensive coordinator Thomas Brown served as interim head coach for the final five games, leading the team to a 1-4 record but closing the season with a road victory against the Packers.
Building Around Williams
The Bears remain optimistic about their future. Caleb Williams, widely regarded as a generational talent, demonstrated his potential during his rookie campaign.
With Johnson at the helm, the team envisions a partnership akin to Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid in Kansas City—a coach-quarterback duo capable of sustained success.
Players such as DJ Moore, Cole Kmet, D’Andre Swift, Montez Sweat, and T.J. Edwards are under contract for 2025, providing a strong foundation for Johnson’s debut season.
Johnson’s Challenge
Johnson inherits a franchise eager to return to postseason glory.
The Bears haven’t won a playoff game since 2010, and their NFC North rivals—Green Bay, Minnesota, and Detroit—remain formidable opponents.
The Lions’ offensive resurgence under Johnson included a playoff victory in 2023, ending a drought that dated back to 1991.
Chicago hopes to achieve a similar turnaround with his leadership.
Defensive Coordinator Selection
Reports suggest that Dennis Allen, former New Orleans Saints head coach, is the leading candidate to serve as Johnson’s defensive coordinator.
Allen’s defensive acumen would complement Johnson’s offensive focus, rounding out the coaching staff.
The Bears are poised for a fresh start under Johnson, whose offensive background and success in Detroit make him a natural fit for this new chapter.
With Caleb Williams at the center of their plans, Chicago aims to build a championship-caliber team and end its postseason drought.
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