By Adeniyi Precious 
The Chicago Bears are building up their coaching staff under new head coach Ben Johnson, and they’re bringing in some familiar faces. Johnson has snagged J.T. Barrett, former Ohio State quarterback legend, as the team’s new quarterbacks coach. Barrett’s coaching resume includes working with the Detroit Lions since 2022, starting as an offensive assistant and later becoming an assistant QBs coach. Now, at just 30, he’s getting a solid promotion.
Ohio State fans know Barrett as the star QB who led the Buckeyes from 2014-2017, racking up over 9,400 passing yards, 104 touchdowns, and 43 rushing TDs. During his time, Ohio State dominated with a 49-6 record, including a perfect 4-0 streak against Michigan, and won the 2014 national championship.
Joining Barrett is Antwaan Randle El, former Steelers wide receiver, who’s coming in as assistant head coach and wide receivers coach. Randle El had the same job with the Lions since 2021. On defense, Johnson added Al Harris, a former NFL player who’s coached with the Dallas Cowboys.
The Bears are counting on Barrett to help develop young QB Caleb Williams, and fans are optimistic. Barrett, meanwhile, seems pumped about the move, already sharing the news on Instagram.