Ben Johnson Poised to Ignite Bears’ Future as Chicago’s Top Coaching Target

Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is rapidly emerging as one of the hottest names in this summer’s NFL coaching carousel — and the Chicago Bears may be his most intriguing destination.

According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Johnson is keeping a close eye on the Bears’ head coaching vacancy. “My understanding is Johnson is intrigued by the Bears’ job and will be willing to listen,” Pelissero revealed. “There’s a lot to like in Chicago with Caleb Williams, tons of cap space, extra draft resources, also a major market.”

It’s easy to see why the Bears’ job stands out among other potential openings in the league. With teams like the New Orleans Saints, New York Jets, and Jacksonville Jaguars potentially shaking up their coaching staff, Chicago’s allure lies in its combination of a young franchise quarterback in Caleb Williams and a roster brimming with potential.

Williams isn’t the only weapon. The offensive core features rising stars like D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and D’Andre Swift, while the defense has quietly become one of the more formidable units in the NFC. For a coach like Johnson — whose offensive schemes have redefined Detroit’s identity — the opportunity to mold a team around Williams could be irresistible.

Chicago won’t lack competition for Johnson’s services. Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury has already been linked to the job, with insiders praising his creativity and accountability. Yet, Johnson’s dynamic play-calling in Detroit gives him a unique edge.

The Lions’ offense is as inventive as it is effective. Detroit leads the NFL in scoring (32.8 PPG) and sits second in total yards (403.9 YPG). The Lions’ willingness to embrace risk, including multiple hook-and-ladder plays this season, has made them one of the league’s most entertaining teams to watch — a direct reflection of Johnson’s vision.

Of course, success as a coordinator doesn’t always translate to head coaching greatness. Running an offense is vastly different from managing an entire organization, and the leap from coordinator to head coach requires more than just tactical brilliance. Johnson knows this and has carefully considered his next steps.

“I think there’s a burning desire in every man to find what he’s made of, push the limits, and see if he’s got what it takes,” Johnson said last week. “There is definitely a fire there. I just don’t know when that moment will be.”

Last season, Johnson passed on head coaching offers to remain with the Lions. Whether he takes the plunge this year may depend on how Detroit’s playoff run unfolds. But if he decides it’s time, Chicago could offer him the ideal platform to build something special.

With Williams under center and a front office ready to invest, Johnson’s innovative offense could be the missing piece that transforms the Bears from playoff hopefuls to genuine contenders. And if his desire to test his limits is as strong as his playbook suggests, Chicago might just be the perfect proving ground.