The Chicago Bears have officially named Ben Johnson as their offensive coordinator for the 2025 NFL season. This is a significant move for the Bears, who have been looking to strengthen their offensive identity and elevate their performance after a season that left much to be desired on that side of the ball. Johnson’s appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Bears’ offense, which has been inconsistent in recent years.
Who is Ben Johnson?
Ben Johnson has quickly become one of the most promising offensive minds in the NFL. Before joining the Bears, Johnson spent time as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, where he gained considerable recognition for transforming the team’s offense into one of the most dynamic in the league.
Johnson’s coaching journey began at the collegiate level, but he made the leap to the NFL, where he served as an offensive assistant for the Miami Dolphins before joining the Lions. It was in Detroit where his skills as a play caller and developer of quarterbacks began to shine. Johnson’s offense was a key factor in the Lions finishing in the top 10 for total offense during his tenure.
What Johnson Brings to the Bears’ Offense
Ben Johnson is known for his ability to craft creative, high-paced offenses. His approach emphasizes versatility, adaptability, and maximizing the potential of his players. While many coordinators struggle to adjust their schemes to their personnel, Johnson has proven to be one of the best at tailoring his playbook to suit the strengths of his roster.
Key Elements of Johnson’s Philosophy:
- Quarterback Development: Johnson’s success in Detroit can be attributed, in large part, to his ability to develop Jared Goff, transforming him into one of the most efficient quarterbacks in the league. For the Bears, this is a critical area of focus, especially with quarterback Justin Fields at the helm. Johnson’s ability to bring out the best in Fields, whether through more precise passing or creative play designs, will be one of the most anticipated aspects of his tenure.
- Innovative Play-Calling: Johnson is widely regarded as one of the more innovative minds in the NFL when it comes to offensive play-calling. His ability to adapt his game plan to attack an opponent’s weaknesses, while also keeping defenses on their toes, is one of the defining features of his approach. Bears fans can expect a more aggressive, fast-paced offense that isn’t afraid to take shots down the field or use unconventional schemes to gain an advantage.
- Maximizing Offensive Weapons: Johnson has a reputation for making the most out of the talent at his disposal. Whether it’s utilizing tight ends, running backs, or wide receivers in dynamic ways, Johnson is committed to developing an offense that keeps defenders guessing. This flexibility will be critical for the Bears as they look to optimize the talents of players like Darnell Mooney, Cole Kmet, and potentially new additions.
- Play Action and Run Game: Johnson’s offense thrives when he can establish a solid ground game. His use of play-action schemes helped the Lions excel in the passing game, as defenses had to respect the run, opening up opportunities for big plays in the passing attack. For the Bears, a strong run game has been a key to success in recent years, and Johnson’s approach could take their offense to the next level by keeping defenses off balance.
What This Means for the Bears’ Future
The Bears’ decision to hire Ben Johnson is a significant step toward building a more dynamic and competitive team. After years of struggles on the offensive side of the ball, this hire represents a shift in philosophy. Johnson’s success in Detroit has earned him widespread praise, and now he will have the opportunity to do the same in Chicago.
Immediate Impact:
The addition of Johnson is expected to have an immediate impact on the development of Justin Fields. If Fields is able to take the next step in his progression as a quarterback, with Johnson’s guidance, the Bears’ offense could become much more dangerous and productive. Johnson’s emphasis on quarterback development is likely to help Fields improve his accuracy, decision-making, and ability to process the game more quickly.
Long-Term Vision:
Looking beyond just one season, Johnson’s hiring represents the Bears’ commitment to building a sustainable and high-powered offense for the future. With a solid foundation of young talent, including Fields and others, Johnson could help create an offense that will not only compete but thrive in a division that is becoming increasingly competitive.
The Bears’ New Coaching Staff
Along with Johnson, the Bears have made additional key hires for the 2025 season:
- Dennis Allen has been appointed as the Bears’ defensive coordinator. Allen brings a wealth of experience, having most recently served as the head coach of the New Orleans Saints. Known for his aggressive defensive schemes, Allen will be tasked with turning the Bears’ defense into a more dominant force.
- Declan Doyle, the youngest offensive coordinator in the NFL at 28 years old, joins as the Bears’ new offensive coordinator. Previously the tight ends coach for the Denver Broncos, Doyle’s fresh perspective and innovative ideas will complement Johnson’s offensive approach.
- Richard Hightower will remain in his role as the special teams coordinator, ensuring consistency in that critical phase of the game.
The Road Ahead for the Bears
The decision to bring in Ben Johnson is a promising sign for the future of the Bears. With his experience, creativity, and track record of success, Johnson is well-equipped to lead the Bears’ offense into a new era. His innovative approach to offensive football, combined with the defensive leadership of Dennis Allen and special teams continuity with Richard Hightower, gives the Bears a balanced and formidable coaching staff.
As the Bears prepare for the 2025 season, much of the focus will be on how Johnson develops Justin Fields and whether the Bears’ offense can finally live up to its potential. With a revamped coaching staff and a solid core of young talent, the Bears are aiming for a competitive and successful season ahead.