Ben Johnson, the acclaimed offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions, has been appointed as the Chicago Bears next head coach. He is known for his innovative play calls. His hiring signals the beginning of a new chapter for the Bears as they seek to rebuild and reinvigorate their franchise. Johnson’s coaching started University of North Carolina, where he was inspired by his offensive coordinator, John Shoop.
Photo Cred: Newsweek
After completing his college career, Johnson began his coaching career as a graduate assistant for the Boston College Eagles in 2009. Just two years later, in 2011, he was promoted to tight ends coach. His NFL journey began in 2012 with the Miami Dolphins, where he served as an assistant coach, working with quarterbacks, tight ends, and wide receivers. As offensive coordinator for the Lions from 2021 to 2024, Johnson quickly gained a reputation as one of the league’s most forward-thinking and effective playcallers.
Under his leadership, the Lions’ offense became one of the NFL’s most potent units. Detroit finished 2023 with a remarkable 15-2 record, ranking second overall in total offense and No. 1 in points scored. Over his three seasons at the helm, Johnson helped the Lions average 28.2 points per game from 2022 to 2024 — the highest in the league during that period. The team’s offensive success stands in stark contrast to the Bears’ recent struggles on that side of the ball. For context, the Lions scored at least 26 points per game in each of Johnson’s three seasons as offensive coordinator.
In comparison, the Bears have reached that mark only four times in franchise history — in 1985, 2006, 2013, and 2018 — all during the Super Bowl era. The Bear’s offensive struggles have been a major factor in their ongoing difficulties. In 2024, the team finished with a 5-12 record, placing them last in the NFC North standings. Since legendary coach George Halas retired after the 1967 season, only one of the Bears’ last 12 full-time head coaches have finished his first season with a winning record. The exception was Matt Nagy, who led Chicago to a 12-4 finish and an NFC North title in 2018.
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With his proven track record of success and reputation for developing high-scoring offenses, Johnson offers the Bears hope for a brighter future. His arrival represents a fresh, dynamic approach to an offense in need of revitalization. As he takes the helm in Chicago, Johnson will have the opportunity to shape the Bears’ future, leading them back to contention in the NFC North and beyond.
