The Chicago Bears’ recent hiring of Ben Johnson as their head coach has generated significant buzz within the NFL community. Johnson’s rapid ascent through the coaching ranks, highlighted by his transformative work with the Detroit Lions’ offense, has positioned him as a strong contender for the NFL Coach of the Year award. This article delves into the factors contributing to the high expectations surrounding Johnson’s tenure with the Bears.
A Proven Offensive Innovator
Ben Johnson’s coaching career began in 2009 as a graduate assistant at Boston College, where he quickly demonstrated a keen understanding of offensive dynamics. His NFL journey commenced with the Miami Dolphins in 2012, serving in various offensive roles, including assistant quarterbacks coach and tight ends coach. However, it was his tenure with the Detroit Lions that truly showcased his offensive acumen.
Joining the Lions in 2019 as an offensive quality control coach, Johnson advanced to tight ends coach and eventually to offensive coordinator in 2022. Under his leadership, the Lions’ offense flourished, achieving top-five rankings in scoring for three consecutive seasons. The 2024 season was particularly noteworthy, with the team averaging 33.2 points per game—the highest in franchise history—and setting multiple records, including five games with over 40 points without turnovers. This offensive explosion was instrumental in the Lions securing their first division title since 1993 and a playoff victory, milestones that had eluded the franchise for decades.
Recognition and Accolades
Johnson’s exceptional performance did not go unnoticed. In February 2025, he was honored with the AP NFL Assistant Coach of the Year award, receiving 29 first-place votes and a total of 364 points, a testament to his peers’ and analysts’ recognition of his impact.
This accolade further solidified his reputation as one of the league’s premier offensive minds.
Transition to Head Coach of the Chicago Bears
On January 21, 2025, the Chicago Bears announced Ben Johnson as their 18th full-time head coach. General Manager Ryan Poles expressed enthusiasm about the hire, stating, “A proven leader with winning pedigree and a mind toward innovation, we are excited to welcome Ben and his family to Chicago as our head coach.”
This appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Bears, who are eager to revitalize their offense and return to playoff contention.
Synergy with Quarterback Caleb Williams
A critical factor in Johnson’s potential success with the Bears is his collaboration with quarterback Caleb Williams. Williams, a standout from the University of Southern California, has demonstrated exceptional talent and poise. Johnson’s track record of maximizing quarterback performance, as evidenced by his work with Jared Goff in Detroit, bodes well for Williams’ development. The pairing of Johnson’s innovative offensive schemes with Williams’ dynamic skill set is anticipated to rejuvenate the Bears’ offense and elevate the team’s overall performance.
Strategic Offseason Moves
The Bears’ offseason strategy under Johnson and Poles has been proactive, focusing on bolstering key positions to support the new offensive vision. Recognizing the need for a robust receiving corps, the team has prioritized acquiring talent at the wide receiver position. Additionally, efforts to strengthen the offensive line are underway, ensuring adequate protection for Williams and facilitating a more effective running game. These calculated moves aim to create a balanced and formidable offense capable of competing at the highest level.
Cultural and Organizational Impact
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Johnson is expected to instill a culture of innovation, discipline, and resilience within the Bears organization. His analytical approach, combined with a player-centric coaching philosophy, fosters an environment where athletes can thrive and adapt to evolving game dynamics. This cultural shift is anticipated to enhance team cohesion and performance, both on and off the field.
Challenges and Expectations
While the optimism surrounding Johnson’s appointment is palpable, several challenges loom. The Bears are coming off a 5–12 season, and transforming the team’s fortunes will require time, patience, and unwavering commitment. The NFC North remains a competitive division, with rivals continually enhancing their rosters. Moreover, integrating new players, implementing a fresh offensive system, and fostering synergy among coaching staff and players are complex tasks that demand meticulous planning and execution.
The Road to Coach of the Year: What It Takes
Winning the NFL Coach of the Year award requires more than just improving a team’s win-loss record. The recipient must demonstrate an ability to transform a franchise, implement successful game strategies, and lead a roster to exceed expectations. For Ben Johnson, several key factors will determine whether he emerges as a legitimate contender for the award in his first year with the Chicago Bears.
1. Maximizing the Potential of Caleb Williams
One of the primary reasons the Bears hired Johnson was his ability to develop quarterbacks and build high-powered offenses. His work with Jared Goff in Detroit transformed the Lions’ offense into one of the best in the NFL. If Johnson can have a similar effect on Caleb Williams, the Bears’ young quarterback, it will drastically improve the team’s overall performance.
Williams, widely regarded as a generational talent, won the Heisman Trophy at USC and was projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. His ability to make plays under pressure, throw with accuracy at all levels, and extend plays with his legs makes him an ideal candidate for Johnson’s system. If Williams thrives in his rookie year under Johnson’s coaching, it will be a major storyline throughout the season.
2. Offensive Firepower: A Rejuvenated Attack
For Johnson to be a Coach of the Year frontrunner, the Bears’ offense must make a significant leap from its underwhelming performances in recent years. The Lions’ offense ranked in the top five during Johnson’s tenure as OC, and the Bears hope he can achieve similar success in Chicago.
Key aspects to watch include:
- Wide Receiver Development – The Bears need a true WR1 to help Williams flourish. Johnson’s system relies on precise route running and yards after the catch, meaning players like DJ Moore could have breakout years.
- Offensive Line Stability – Protecting a young quarterback is crucial. The Bears’ offensive line must improve in pass protection to give Williams time to execute Johnson’s playbook.
- Run Game Balance – While Johnson is known for his passing schemes, his offenses in Detroit also excelled at running the ball. The Bears’ rushing attack will need to be strong to create balance and keep defenses honest.
3. A Dramatic Turnaround in the NFC North
The Coach of the Year award often goes to the coach who orchestrates the biggest turnaround. The Bears finished 5–12 in 2024, so even an 8- or 9-win season would be seen as a massive improvement. However, a playoff berth or even a division title would catapult Johnson to the top of the award race.
The NFC North will be highly competitive in 2025, with:
- Detroit Lions – A powerhouse under Dan Campbell, expected to be a Super Bowl contender.
- Minnesota Vikings – Still in transition after moving on from Kirk Cousins, but always competitive.
- Green Bay Packers – Jordan Love has shown flashes of brilliance, and Green Bay remains a tough opponent.
If Johnson can lead the Bears to a winning record and a playoff spot in one of the toughest divisions in football, his case for Coach of the Year will be undeniable.
The X-Factor: Johnson’s Leadership and Innovation
A major reason Johnson was hired as head coach was not just his strategic offensive mind, but his leadership qualities. Bears GM Ryan Poles highlighted Johnson’s ability to connect with players, adjust his schemes to talent, and build a strong locker room culture.
Great coaches don’t just install X’s and O’s; they create an environment where players believe in the system and buy into the bigger picture. If Johnson can establish a winning culture in Chicago, he’ll position himself as a leader in the Coach of the Year race.
Can Ben Johnson Win Coach of the Year?
The expectations for the Bears are high, but so are the challenges. If Ben Johnson can elevate Caleb Williams, implement a dynamic offensive system, and lead Chicago back to playoff contention, he’ll be one of the most talked-about coaches in the NFL.