Ben Johnson’s Coaches Labeled Top Reason for High Bears Intrigue
As the Chicago Bears continue to search for their next head coach after a series of disappointing seasons, one name that has consistently emerged as a top candidate is Ben Johnson, the current offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. Johnson’s offensive prowess and the success of his coaching strategies have earned him a lot of attention around the NFL. However, what has piqued the most interest in his candidacy for the Bears is the coaching staff he is likely to bring with him—an area that has been identified as the top reason for high intrigue around his potential hire.
The Bears’ Current Coaching Landscape
The Bears are in a critical phase of their rebuild. With Matt Eberflus’s departure, the team is looking for a new leader who can turn around a franchise that has struggled for years to build a consistent contender. Much of the Bears’ recent struggles have been attributed to issues on both sides of the ball—especially the offense, where Justin Fields‘s development has not been fully maximized despite flashes of brilliance.
The right coaching hire, particularly someone with a proven ability to develop quarterbacks and orchestrate an offense, is a must for the Bears. While Ben Johnson’s success as an offensive coordinator with the Lions has drawn attention, the real intrigue lies in the coaching staff he would bring along with him to Chicago.
Johnson’s Success in Detroit: A Snapshot
Before diving into the potential impact of his coaching staff, it’s essential to understand the impressive work Ben Johnson has done in Detroit. As the Lions’ offensive coordinator, Johnson has played a key role in transforming the Lions into one of the most potent offensive units in the NFL.
His innovative schemes, which often blend the traditional power running game with a modern, explosive passing attack, have allowed the Lions to thrive in a division known for tough defenses. Under Johnson’s leadership, the team has taken major strides in maximizing the talents of Jared Goff, who has evolved into a more confident and efficient quarterback.
What has truly stood out about Johnson is his ability to develop young talent, something the Bears desperately need with Justin Fields at the helm. Johnson’s offense is designed to get the ball out quickly and take advantage of mismatches. He’s known for a play-calling style that keeps opposing defenses on their toes and constantly looking for new ways to attack.
The Coaching Staff: The Real X-Factor for the Bears
While Johnson’s offensive mind and ability to develop players are well-known, what truly excites analysts, fans, and the Bears’ front office is the coaching staff Johnson could bring with him. His reputation as a talent developer and leader is heavily tied to the quality of his assistants and the collective coaching environment he’s built.
The importance of the coaching staff cannot be overstated. The NFL is a league where success is often determined by the relationships between head coaches and their assistants. Johnson has worked alongside top-tier coaches throughout his career and has built relationships with a network of highly respected assistants who could help reshape the Bears’ organization.
Top Assistant Coaches That Could Join Johnson in Chicago
Several names have emerged in discussions about who might join Ben Johnson on his coaching staff if he were to take over as head coach of the Bears. These potential assistants bring a wealth of experience and could have a massive impact on the development of the Bears’ roster.
Greg Olson (Quarterbacks Coach)
One of the first names associated with Johnson’s potential Bears staff is Greg Olson, a seasoned quarterback coach who has worked with several high-profile quarterbacks in his career. Olson has had stints coaching quarterbacks in several NFL organizations, and his expertise would be invaluable in working with Justin Fields. Olson’s ability to coach and develop quarterbacks is a crucial asset for a Bears team that needs to elevate Fields’ game to the next level.
By bringing in Olson, Johnson would be showing a strong commitment to Fields’ development. Olson’s coaching pedigree—especially his work with quarterbacks in both developmental and starting roles—makes him an excellent choice to help Fields continue to grow as a passer.
Aaron Glenn (Defensive Coordinator)
Although Ben Johnson’s specialty is offense, his success in Detroit has been supported by a stout defense. Aaron Glenn, the Lions’ defensive coordinator, has been instrumental in shaping Detroit’s defensive identity. Known for his ability to build strong secondaries and defensive units, Glenn could bring that same energy and expertise to Chicago.
As the Bears look to solidify their defensive scheme, having a respected defensive coordinator like Aaron Glenn on board would be a huge asset. His ability to develop defensive backs, teach sound fundamentals, and adapt to offensive trends would make him a prime candidate to help lead the Bears’ defense into the future.
Ben McAdoo (Offensive Consultant)
Former Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo is another name that has been tied to Johnson’s coaching staff. McAdoo, known for his quick-strike offense and ability to develop quarterbacks, would be an excellent addition as an offensive consultant or a potential offensive coordinator if Johnson were to make him a key part of his staff.
McAdoo’s experience with high-profile quarterbacks like Eli Manning in New York would be beneficial in Chicago, particularly if the Bears continue to develop Fields into a top-tier NFL quarterback. His experience working in various offensive systems would complement Johnson’s innovative schemes.
The Bears’ Roster: A Perfect Fit for Johnson’s Staff
The talent on the Bears’ roster provides the perfect opportunity for Ben Johnson and his staff to make an immediate impact. While the team has not consistently performed well in recent years, they have a young, dynamic quarterback in Justin Fields and several promising players on defense.
Justin Fields: A Quarterback Who Needs Development
Justin Fields is undeniably the centerpiece of the Bears’ future. However, his progression has been hindered by inconsistent coaching and a lack of support around him. With Ben Johnson known for his ability to develop quarterbacks, the Bears’ job represents a unique opportunity for him to work closely with Fields and refine his skill set.
Under Johnson, Fields would be expected to grow into a more complete quarterback. Johnson’s offensive system could provide Fields with the structure and freedom to develop his passing skills while continuing to take advantage of his unique mobility and playmaking ability. If Johnson’s coaching staff includes experts like Greg Olson, Fields could see his potential unlocked in ways that have not been possible under previous regimes.
Building Around the Roster: Offensive Line and Skill Position Players
The Bears’ offensive line is another area that has been a point of concern for several seasons. Johnson’s coaching staff would need to place a strong emphasis on improving the offensive line, which has struggled with both pass protection and run blocking.
With a more dynamic offensive system under Ben Johnson, the Bears’ offensive line could be molded into a unit that can handle the demands of an NFL offense. Additionally, Johnson’s experience with skill position players—particularly wide receivers and tight ends—would be essential in developing players like Darnell Mooney, Chase Claypool, and Cole Kmet into legitimate threats on offense.
The Overall Appeal: Why the Bears Are Intrigued
The main reason the Chicago Bears are intrigued by Ben Johnson’s candidacy is the coaching staff he brings to the table. Johnson has established himself as an innovative offensive mind in the NFL, but what sets him apart from other candidates is his ability to surround himself with top-tier assistants who can help create a well-rounded, competitive team.
Johnson’s success in Detroit has proven that he knows how to build a balanced offensive attack, develop quarterbacks, and put together a staff that can get the best out of every player. For the Bears, a franchise that has struggled to find consistent success, this kind of coaching expertise is exactly what the team needs.