Photo Credit: Mike Mulholland/Getty Images
Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions over the past three seasons, has agreed to become the Chicago Bears’ next head coach. The announcement was made Monday by Priority Sports, the agency representing him. Johnson steps into the role following Matt Eberflus’s dismissal on November 29, becoming the 19th head coach in the Bears’ 105-year history.
The 38-year-old coach became available after the Lions, the NFC’s top seed, suffered a shocking playoff upset against the Washington Commanders on Saturday.
Building a New Coaching Staff
Johnson is already working on assembling his staff, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Former New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen is reportedly the leading candidate for defensive coordinator. The Bears are also pursuing Saints interim coach Darren Rizzi for the special teams coordinator role.
The Bears began their search by interviewing 17 candidates, including notable names like former Commanders and Panthers coach Ron Rivera, ex-Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, and Tennessee State coach Eddie George. General manager Ryan Poles emphasized the team’s comprehensive approach, saying, “We’re turning every stone to make sure we’re doing this the right way.”
The Bears adhered to the NFL’s Rooney Rule requirements by completing George’s interview on Sunday.
A Proven Offensive Innovator
Johnson is widely regarded for his innovative playcalling and ability to craft high-scoring offenses. Under his guidance, the Lions consistently ranked among the league’s top 10 offenses over the past two seasons, including finishing second overall and first in points scored in 2024. Detroit averaged 28.2 offensive points per game from 2022 to 2024, the best in the NFL during that span.
Chicago’s offense, on the other hand, has struggled in recent years. The Bears finished 5-12 this season, ranking last in the NFC North. Since 1967, only one of the team’s 12 full-time head coaches—Matt Nagy in 2018—has achieved a winning record in his first season.
The Caleb Williams Connection
Johnson’s arrival comes with high expectations for his ability to elevate quarterback Caleb Williams, the Bears’ top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Williams has already expressed admiration for Johnson’s offensive schemes, describing them as “fascinating” and “creative.”
During his rookie season, Williams posted a 47 QBR (28th in the NFL) and endured a league-high 68 sacks. Johnson’s track record suggests he can help improve those numbers, much like he did with Jared Goff in Detroit. Goff’s QBR rose from 46 to 63 in Johnson’s first year as offensive coordinator, thanks in part to reduced sack rates and a heavy emphasis on play-action passes.
The Lions led the NFL in play-action usage last season (36%), while the Bears ranked near the bottom (30th). Similarly, Detroit ranked fifth in pre-snap motion, whereas Chicago ranked 19th. Johnson’s strategic creativity could be exactly what the Bears need to transform their offense.
Rebuilding the Bears
Johnson inherits a team with significant resources for improvement. The Bears hold the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and three additional picks in the top 72. They also boast $74.8 million in projected salary cap space, the fourth-highest in the league.
However, challenges remain. Key starters on the offensive line—Coleman Shelton, Matt Pryor, and Teven Jenkins—are pending free agents, as is star wide receiver Keenan Allen. Johnson will need to navigate these offseason decisions carefully to build a competitive roster.
A Fresh Start for Chicago
With a proven offensive mind at the helm and substantial resources at his disposal, Ben Johnson has an opportunity to revitalize a franchise that has struggled for consistency. His ability to unlock Caleb Williams’ potential and reshape the Bears’ offensive identity will be key to his success in Chicago.
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This report used information from ESPN.
