Dan Campbell’s Blunt Advice to New Bears HC Ben Johnson
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell played a major role in shaping the coaching career of Ben Johnson, but he made it clear that the former Lions offensive coordinator is now on his own as he takes over the Chicago Bears.
Speaking at the NFL Combine, Campbell shared the one crucial piece of advice he gave to both Johnson and former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who is now the New York Jets head coach:
“The most important thing you’ll do as a head coach is hire your staff.”
Johnson wasted no time assembling his coaching team, bringing in Dennis Allen as defensive coordinator and making a bold move by hiring Declan Doyle, just 28 years old, as offensive coordinator. Johnson will still handle play-calling duties, but his staff includes notable names like Eric Bieniemy (RB coach) and former NFL receiver Antwaan Randle El (WR coach/assistant HC).
Campbell’s message was clear—your staff will define your success. Now, it’s up to Johnson to prove himself in Chicago.