Report: Bears hiring Lions OC Ben Johnson as next head coach
Chicago Bears Finalize Deal with Ben Johnson
The Chicago Bears are hiring Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as their next head coach, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Schefter reported that the Bears are finalizing a deal to make Johnson their new head coach as of Monday afternoon. This hire puts to bed an exhaustive head coaching search that featured interviews with at least 17 candidates heading into Monday morning.
Ben Johnson’s Background
Ben Johnson previously served as Detroit’s offensive coordinator for the last three seasons. He was arguably the most highly sought-after coaching candidate in the 2025 hiring cycle. Johnson’s play-calling acumen caught the eye of Caleb Williams, the Bears’ rookie quarterback, who paid attention to Detroit when they have faced other opponents and was taking notice mid-game against the Lions.
Johnson’s Experience with the Lions
During his three seasons with the Lions, Johnson’s offense ranked near the top of the NFL in several major categories. In 2024, the Lions finished the season as the top scoring offense in football, gaining the second-most total yards (6,962) behind the Baltimore Ravens (7,224). In 2023, Johnson’s offense ranked near the top of the NFL in passing offense, total offense, rushing offense, and points per game.
What Players Think of Johnson
Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams had praise for Johnson’s play-calling, stating, “Yeah, I think even watching last night, knowing kind of what they’re going to be in a certain situation, and being able to go out there and execute like the pass they threw to Jahmyr [Gibbs] on Van Ginkel… I think he’s done things. He’s done that all year. And I think it’s been really cool to watch.”
Johnson’s Mutual Respect for Williams
Before the Lions traveled to play in Chicago on Dec. 22, Johnson was asked about what he thought of Williams. He said, “It’s been difficult to sit down and just study every throw, but plenty of crossover tape over the course of the year and there’s no question this guy is talented… He’s got quite a fastball and has some creativity to him. He can extend plays and is accurate down the field as well… He’s been impressive from afar.”
Additional News
Schefter also reported that former New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen is a leading candidate to become Johnson’s defensive coordinator. The Bears’ head coaching search has come to an end with the hiring of Johnson, and the team is expected to make official announcements in the coming days.
Conclusion
The Chicago Bears have finally found their next head coach in Ben Johnson, a highly sought-after coaching candidate. With Johnson at the helm, the team is expected to bring a fresh perspective and innovative play-calling to the gridiron. Fans are excited to see what the future holds for the Bears under Johnson’s leadership.
FAQs
Q: What is Ben Johnson’s background?
A: Ben Johnson previously served as Detroit’s offensive coordinator for the last three seasons.
Q: What were Johnson’s achievements with the Lions?
A: During his three seasons with the Lions, Johnson’s offense ranked near the top of the NFL in several major categories, including scoring offense, total yards, and points per game.
Q: What does Caleb Williams think of Johnson?
A: Caleb Williams, the Bears’ rookie quarterback, has praise for Johnson’s play-calling, stating that he’s “done things. He’s done that all year. And I think it’s been really cool to watch.”
