The Chicago Bears are reportedly finalizing a deal to hire Ben Johnson, the former offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions, to lead their team as head coach. This move comes as the Bears look to revitalize their offense and turn around their franchise’s fortunes after a disappointing season. Johnson, who has been credited with significantly enhancing the Lions’ offensive performance last year, played a key role in developing quarterback Jared Goff and implementing an innovative offensive strategy that led the Lions to rank among the top offenses in the league, scoring an average of 27.5 points per game in the 2022 season. Sources have indicated that Johnson’s ability to connect with players and his experience in high-pressure situations made him a prime candidate. Former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel noted, “Ben has that ability to really connect with his players and understood the importance of building a cohesive unit.” The Bears’ management believes that Johnson will not only help in maximizing the talents of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, should they choose to draft him, but also in bringing a fresh perspective to the team’s overall culture. After Johnson’s successful stint with the Lions, it seems he is well-equipped to navigate the challenges of leading the Bears’ offense. ESPN’s Diana Russini reported that both sides are optimistic about the transition and a formal announcement could be expected soon. As the Bears finalize this significant hiring, anticipation builds among fans and analysts regarding Johnson’s impact on the squad moving forward. The franchise, eager to rebound from several seasons of poor performance, hopes that bringing in an offensive-minded coach like Johnson will lead them back to competitiveness in the league.
Chicago Bears Finalizing Deal to Hire Lions Offensive Coordinator Ben Johnson
