With just two games remaining for the Chicago Bears this season, the team's focus has increasingly shifted from the underwhelming performances on the field to the search for their next head coach. Amidst swirling rumors about various candidates, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has surfaced as the frontrunner for the position.
Adam Schefter, ESPN NFL Insider, recently shared insights about Johnson's interest in the Bears job during his appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. "I think he has interest in the job... I'm sure they're going to request to interview him," Schefter stated. Johnson, who led the Lions to victory over the Bears twice this season, is seen as well-suited to develop young quarterback Caleb Williams.
Despite the Bears' 4-12 record and losing momentum, analysts believe the franchise remains one of the more attractive coaching opportunities this offseason. Jeremy Fowler of ESPN remarked, "I do sense it is the best job available. People like tradition. Especially the older coaches, they love tradition." The allure of coaching the Bears--a franchise steeped in history--is emphasized by the opportunity to work with Williams, the top pick from the 2024 NFL Draft.
Williams has impressed with his potential, throwing for 3,393 yards and 19 touchdowns during his rookie season, even though the team has struggled overall. The presence of young talent on the roster and the possibility of significant draft capital make the Bears' head coaching position all the more appealing to candidates like Johnson, who have shown interest.
Johnson appears to fit the bill for what many believe the Bears need—an innovative offensive mind to energize the team and play to Williams' strengths. "Whereas early on I don't know if this was going to be the case, I think there’s enough there for him to be interested at least talking to them," Schefter added, endorsing Johnson's candidacy.
It's not only Johnson's prowess on offense that's gotten him attention; the potential for properly aligning with the front office is also significant. A potential hiring of Johnson could put pressure on Bears general manager Ryan Poles, who has faced scrutiny after leading the franchise to disappointing seasons and failing to build effectively around the young quarterback.
"If Johnson becomes the Bears’ head coach, it could not only address the coaching vacancy but also justify parting ways with Poles," according to analysts. This delicate balance of hiring the right head coach, who can work closely with the general manager, could be pivotal for the Bears' future.
Interestingly, the conversation around Johnson hasn't been entirely positive. Some analysts, like Dan Orlovsky, caution against jumping too fast to hire Johnson without considering other candidates who might fit Williams' playing style more effectively.
Orlovsky suggested the need for a more thoughtful evaluation, stating, "Caleb will struggle with Johnson’s system because he doesn’t know how to play on time." This insight reminds the Bears organization to thoroughly vet their options.
Johnson's emphasis on the right alignment between head coach and management suggests he may look for assurance from the Bears when it concerns addressing weak points across the organization. With growing voices urging the team to shake up not just coaching but management as well, securing Johnson could signify substantial changes—a new era—or continue the NHL franchise's search for lasting success under renewed leadership.
With the offseason fast approaching, the Bears will look to conduct interviews and fully assess potential candidates. Johnson's connections to Williams through his agent and familiarity with the rookie's strengths during their matchups this season may provide him with insight others lack, which could tilt the interview process favorably for him.
Fans are eager to see if Johnson will emerge as their next head coach, having witnessed his success with the Detroit Lions. Hiring him could instill optimism among fans who are hungry for victory and consistency as the Bears seek to revitalize their franchise.
Time is of the essence for the Bears; they stand at pivotal crossroads, needing to assess the future of their organization, particularly as they navigate recruiting the right coach to guide Caleb Williams and develop him as the franchise quarterback.
