In a development that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, reports have surfaced that the Chicago Bears are in the final stages of finalizing a deal with Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to become their next head coach. This marks a pivotal moment in the Bears’ ongoing search for stability and success following years of frustration and inconsistency. If confirmed, Johnson’s hiring would signal a bold move by a franchise desperate to return to relevance in a highly competitive NFC North division.
So, what does this potential hiring mean for the Chicago Bears, their fanbase, and the NFC landscape as a whole? Let’s break it down.
### Who Is Ben Johnson?
Before diving into the broader implications of this move, it’s essential to understand who Ben Johnson is and why his name has been so frequently linked to head coaching opportunities in recent years.
Ben Johnson, who took over as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator in 2022, has quickly garnered a reputation as one of the brightest young minds in the NFL. His work in Detroit has been nothing short of spectacular, transforming an offense that had been among the league’s worst into a high-scoring juggernaut capable of competing with the NFL’s elite.
In 2023, under Johnson’s guidance, the Lions finished in the top-10 in nearly every major offensive category, including total yards, points scored, and passing efficiency. Johnson’s ability to adapt to his personnel—working wonders with quarterback Jared Goff, a player many had written off—was a key factor in the Lions’ resurgence. He is widely praised for his creativity, his ability to design dynamic passing schemes, and his versatility in utilizing a variety of offensive weapons to their full potential.
Before taking over as offensive coordinator, Johnson had spent time coaching quarterbacks and tight ends with the Lions, as well as serving as a staff assistant with the Miami Dolphins. His track record of success, particularly his development of Goff and the growth of the Lions’ offense, has made him one of the most sought-after young coaching talents in the NFL.
### Why the Bears’ Interest in Ben Johnson?
The Chicago Bears have been searching for a head coach who can take the reins of a franchise that has been in rebuilding mode for much of the past decade. Under former head coach Matt Nagy, the Bears’ offense struggled to find any identity or consistency, and despite a few glimpses of promise, the team never reached its potential. Following Nagy’s dismissal after the 2021 season, the Bears brought in Matt Eberflus, a defensive-minded coach with a plan to build a strong, disciplined team. However, much like Nagy before him, Eberflus’ tenure has been marked by struggles on the offensive side of the ball.
The Bears have been in search of an offensive-minded head coach who can help guide quarterback Justin Fields’ development and build a modern offense capable of competing in a pass-heavy, high-scoring league. Fields, who displayed flashes of brilliance in 2023, showed that he has the potential to be a franchise quarterback. However, he needs the right coaching to develop his throwing mechanics, improve his decision-making, and take advantage of his unique athleticism.
This is where Ben Johnson enters the picture.
The Bears’ interest in Johnson is rooted in his impressive ability to develop quarterbacks and create high-powered offenses. Johnson’s success with Jared Goff, a quarterback who initially struggled in Los Angeles, is particularly noteworthy. In a similar situation, Fields, with his raw talent and mobility, could benefit from Johnson’s guidance to unlock his full potential. The pairing of Fields with Johnson’s creative offensive schemes could breathe new life into the Bears’ offense, an area that has been a significant weakness for the team in recent years.
Johnson’s track record of making the most of his players’ strengths is another major selling point. His success in designing an offense that adapts to the talent at his disposal—whether it’s a pocket passer like Goff or a mobile playmaker like Fields—suggests he could be the right fit for the Bears’ current roster. The team has invested in key offensive players, including wide receiver DJ Moore, and they have a promising young offensive line, so Johnson will have the pieces necessary to run a high-octane offense.
### What Does This Mean for Justin Fields?
If the reports of Ben Johnson finalizing a deal with the Bears are accurate, one of the most immediate beneficiaries of this hiring will be quarterback Justin Fields. Fields has immense potential, but his development has been hindered by inconsistent coaching, a lack of offensive weapons, and a system that doesn’t maximize his strengths.
In 2023, Fields showed flashes of brilliance, especially with his legs, but his passing game remains a work in progress. His mechanics need refinement, and his decision-making under pressure has been erratic. However, his ability to make dynamic plays with his legs and his natural athleticism are undeniable. What Fields has lacked is the consistency and coaching to take his game to the next level.
Ben Johnson’s reputation as a quarterback developer and offensive innovator could be the key to unlocking Fields’ full potential. Johnson’s ability to design creative passing concepts and tailor the offense to his quarterback’s strengths could be exactly what Fields needs to reach the next tier in his development. Under Johnson’s guidance, Fields could benefit from more structured passing plays, better protection schemes, and a more dynamic supporting cast.
Johnson’s work with Jared Goff is particularly instructive. Goff was often seen as a quarterback with limitations, especially after his time with the Los Angeles Rams. However, under Johnson’s tutelage, Goff became a more efficient and confident passer, and he played a major role in the Lions’ offensive resurgence. If Johnson can do the same for Fields—improve his consistency, refine his passing mechanics, and put him in positions to succeed—the Bears’ offense could become a dangerous force in the NFC.
### What Will This Mean for the Bears’ Future?
Ben Johnson’s potential arrival in Chicago is a signal that the Bears are committed to turning the page on their offensive struggles and taking a new, bold direction. The team has been in a rebuilding phase, and while the defense remains a strength, the offense has held the team back for far too long. A modern, high-powered offense that can complement a strong defense could make the Bears serious contenders in the NFC North.
The Bears’ front office has invested heavily in building a competitive roster around Justin Fields, and now it appears they are ready to invest in the right coaching to get the most out of that talent. If Johnson is indeed hired, the Bears will be betting on his offensive acumen to elevate Fields, improve the running game, and develop a sustainable, potent attack.
A successful hire would also mean that the Bears can expect to build a consistent, long-term system rather than constantly cycling through coordinators and philosophies. With the NFC North in a period of transition—both the Green Bay Packers and the Minnesota Vikings are in phases of rebuilding—this could be the ideal time for the Bears to strike and take control of the division.
### Conclusion: A New Era for the Bears
The potential hiring of Ben Johnson as head coach marks a new era for the Chicago Bears, one where offensive innovation and quarterback development are at the forefront. With Justin Fields poised to take the next step in his career, Johnson’s expertise in creating dynamic, quarterback-friendly systems could be the catalyst that propels the Bears back into contention.
While the move is still pending confirmation, it’s clear that the Bears are serious about turning around their fortunes and building a competitive, high-powered offense. If Johnson is officially named head coach, expect a surge of optimism and excitement in Chicago, as the team takes its first major steps toward building a bright future. The NFC North better watch out—the Bears might just be back.