In the midst of a transformative offseason that has already shaken the foundations of the NFC North, the Chicago Bears are making bold strides to reinvent themselves. At the center of this transformation is the union of two significant arrivals—dynamic wide receiver Devin Duvernay and one of the NFL’s brightest young minds, new head coach Ben Johnson. While Duvernay’s signing might not have led every headline, his presence, attitude, and fit in Johnson’s offensive philosophy could have a much larger impact than most realize.
For Duvernay, joining the Bears represents more than just a change in scenery—it’s a new beginning, a long-awaited opportunity to unleash his full potential, and a chance to be a key contributor in one of the league’s most intriguing rebuilds. With Johnson at the helm and the Bears shifting from perennial cellar-dwellers to potential contenders, the stars may finally be aligning for the 26-year-old speedster from Texas.
A Different Atmosphere: From Baltimore to the Windy City
Devin Duvernay’s journey to Chicago started with frustration. After four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, he had grown tired of the underutilization. Baltimore was built around the electric legs of Lamar Jackson and a smashmouth rushing attack that never quite allowed Duvernay to showcase his full arsenal. Yes, he made back-to-back Pro Bowls as a return specialist. Yes, he had moments where he flashed elite acceleration and toughness. But consistent targets were hard to come by.
In 2021 and 2022, Duvernay emerged as one of the NFL’s most dangerous special teams weapons. He returned kickoffs and punts with ferocity and finesse, often giving Baltimore excellent field position. Still, as a wideout, he played third or fourth fiddle behind the likes of Rashod Bateman, Mark Andrews, and eventually, Zay Flowers.
Now, that changes.
“I’m pumped to be in Chicago,” Duvernay said at his introductory press conference. “It’s a new energy here. I feel like I’m stepping into something fresh, something real. Coach Johnson believes in getting playmakers the ball, and I’m ready to show what I can do when I get those chances.”
Ben Johnson’s Vision: A New Breed of Bears Football
Hiring Ben Johnson was perhaps the most consequential move of the Bears’ offseason. Known as the architect of Detroit’s high-powered offense that turned Jared Goff into a top-10 quarterback, Johnson brings with him a playbook filled with creativity, tempo, and misdirection. His success with the Lions—turning an oft-maligned unit into one of the NFL’s most explosive—speaks volumes.
But more than just schemes and formations, Johnson brings a player-centric mindset.
“Guys like Duvernay, they make life easier,” Johnson said when asked about the receiver. “He’s the kind of guy you can line up in the slot, out wide, or even in the backfield if you need to. He’s explosive, smart, and he’s hungry. That’s the kind of player I want in my system.”
Johnson’s offenses in Detroit made heavy use of motion, jet sweeps, quick-hitters, and layered route concepts. That style suits Duvernay perfectly. In Baltimore, he was often asked to run go routes or operate in confined spacing. In Chicago, he’ll be unleashed—motioned pre-snap, used in bubble screens, and targeted in the open field where he thrives.
The Bears are no longer trying to win games 17-13. Under Johnson, expect an attack-mode philosophy, and Duvernay figures to be a vital chess piece in that puzzle.
A Revamped Bears Offense: Duvernay’s Role Among New Weapons
Duvernay won’t be alone in this new-look offense. The Bears made headlines with the selection of USC’s Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, handing the keys of the franchise to a generational quarterback talent. Williams’ improvisational style and downfield accuracy will immediately elevate every receiver on the roster.
Also joining the fold: Rome Odunze, the elite route-running wideout from Washington, selected at No. 9 overall. Alongside Odunze and Duvernay are DJ Moore, tight end Cole Kmet, and running back Khalil Herbert. Add in speedster Velus Jones Jr., and suddenly the Bears are no longer lacking weapons.
But Duvernay offers something unique.
He brings return-game value, slot dominance, and toughness that is rare for a player of his size. His ability to absorb contact, remain on his feet, and explode out of breaks makes him an ideal fit for a horizontal stretch offense. More importantly, he doesn’t need 12 targets to make an impact—five touches a game could mean 70 yards and a touchdown.
And with a rookie quarterback under center, quick-developing plays and gadget-style creativity will be key to easing the transition. That’s where Duvernay’s versatility will shine.
More Than Just Speed: The Maturation of Devin Duvernay
Too often, Duvernay is labeled simply as “the fast guy.” While he does possess blazing 4.3 speed, his game has evolved into much more. He’s become a refined route runner, a reliable hands catcher, and a fearless slot presence. His years in Baltimore were invaluable for his development—he learned how to block, how to contribute on special teams, and how to be a professional.
“I’ve learned how to be patient,” Duvernay said. “There were times in Baltimore I wanted more, but I never complained. I just kept working. I knew when the right opportunity came, I’d be ready. I truly believe this is that opportunity.”
That maturity has already made an impression in Chicago. Coaches rave about his work ethic. Young players have gravitated to him. And in early workouts with Caleb Williams, Duvernay has reportedly been one of the most consistent performers, helping his rookie QB get acclimated to the speed of the pro game.
A Career Year Incoming?
Statistically, Duvernay’s best year came in 2022, when he caught 37 passes for 407 yards and three touchdowns while earning All-Pro consideration as a returner. Those numbers may not jump off the page, but given the limited targets and conservative offense he was a part of, they represent efficient production.
Now, the table is set for a breakout campaign.
“I think Devin is going to surprise people,” said offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand, who followed Ben Johnson from Detroit. “We’ve got a lot of mouths to feed, sure. But Devin’s not a guy you ignore. He forces defenses to adjust. That’s what we want—playmakers who force attention. He’ll have every opportunity to shine.”
With Odunze commanding attention on the outside and DJ Moore likely drawing the top cornerbacks, Duvernay will often see single coverage or zones designed to prevent the deep ball. That spells opportunity for quick-hit plays, tunnel screens, and end-arounds—all areas where Duvernay thrives.
If he stays healthy and plays all 17 games, Duvernay could very well exceed 800 receiving yards and five or more touchdowns, with another 500+ yards in the return game. In a pass-happy system, those numbers might even prove conservative.
Building Culture in Chicago
Beyond the Xs and Os, the Bears are building something more: a culture rooted in accountability, competitiveness, and hunger. Duvernay fits that mold. He’s never been the loudest voice in the room, but his play speaks volumes. He shows up, works hard, and sets an example.
In a locker room now filled with young, hungry talent and guided by a head coach who believes in empowering his players, Duvernay’s leadership could be just as valuable as his production.
“Culture wins,” Ben Johnson said at the NFL Combine. “You can’t fake that. You need guys who are all in—guys who put the team first. Devin’s that guy. You win with players like him.”
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future in the NFC North
The Bears are not sneaking up on anyone. With Caleb Williams in tow, national attention is already swirling around Halas Hall. Every move is scrutinized. Every practice rep will be broken down.
But pressure creates diamonds, and Duvernay seems ready for that spotlight.
“This is what you dream about as a kid,” he said. “Big city, passionate fans, a young team on the rise. I want to be part of that story. I want to help bring Chicago back to the top.”
As the NFC North continues to evolve—with Detroit still strong, Green Bay on the rise, and Minnesota retooling—Chicago’s blend of youthful star power and creative leadership positions them as perhaps the most fascinating team in the conference.
And if things go according to plan, Devin Duvernay won’t just be along for the ride—he’ll be helping drive the bus.
Final Thoughts: Duvernay’s Journey Just Getting Started
In the modern NFL, where versatility, speed, and adaptability rule the day, Devin Duvernay may finally have found the perfect home. Chicago is no longer the cold, grind-it-out offense of old. Under Ben Johnson’s watchful eye and with Caleb Williams calling the shots, this Bears team is ready to sprint into the future.
