Ben Johnson Likely to Push for a New GM Besides Ryan Poles, Report Says
Bears’ Coaching Search Continues to Unfold
Information continues to emerge about the Chicago Bears’ looming pursuit of a new head coach. The presumptive top candidate — Ben Johnson — is tied to the latest details suggesting he would want a new general manager if he came to Chicago.
Campbell’s Sources Indicate Johnson’s Preferences
According to Walter Football draft analyst Charlie Campbell, team sources told him the Detroit Lions offensive coordinator wants the job, but Johnson’s hire would likely push out incumbent general manager Ryan Poles in the process.
Lance Newmark as Potential Replacement
Campbell said Johnson would likely want to work with Washington Commanders’ assistant general manager Lance Newmark. Newmark was hired as Washington’s assistant GM in February before the 2024 NFL season began, but previously spent 26 years with the Lions. He most recently held the position of senior director of player personnel in Detroit, where he oversaw both college and pro scouting operations during the 2022 and 2023 NFL seasons.
Flores as Alternative Candidate
With this reservation in mind, Campbell said Poles would likely pursue Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores as another Bears’ head-coaching candidate, given their past relationship. Flores and Poles both played college football at Boston College, where their playing careers overlapped in 2003.
Caleb Williams’ Reaction
Former No. 1 overall pick and rookie starting quarterback for Chicago, Caleb Williams, said he welcomes whatever influence the Bears offer him in hiring the team’s next head coach.
“Whatever, I guess, they allow. I know that I’m a rookie and a young guy so, if they make decisions without me, that’s their job to make decisions and make those types of decisions,” Williams said. “If they make a decision like that, [I’ll] just hope and believe and [have] faith that those guys upstairs, they make the right decisions. That’s that and if I’m a part of it, then great.”
Bears’ Season Finale Against Packers
Chicago is 4-12 and will finish last in the NFC North for the third consecutive year. The Bears take on the Green Bay Packers Sunday at Lambeau Field. Kickoff is scheduled for noon CT.
Conclusion
The latest developments in the Bears’ coaching search suggest that Ben Johnson may not be compatible with the team’s current general manager, Ryan Poles. If Johnson becomes the next head coach, he may push for a new general manager, potentially paving the way for Lance Newmark to join the team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is the presumptive top candidate for the Bears’ head coaching job?
A: Ben Johnson, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator.
Q: Who would likely replace Ryan Poles as general manager if Johnson becomes the head coach?
A: Lance Newmark, Washington Commanders’ assistant general manager.
Q: Why would Poles likely pursue Brian Flores as an alternative head coaching candidate?
A: Because they have a past relationship, having played college football together at Boston College.
