By Mummy Grace The Chicago Bears have officially announced Ben Johnson as their new head coach. Johnson, 38, joins the Bears after an impressive three-year stint as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, where his innovative play-calling and leadership helped make Detroit’s offense one of the most prolific in the NFL.
In a statement, Bears general manager Ryan Poles expressed his excitement for Johnson’s arrival, highlighting his character, intelligence, and progressive offensive vision as key factors in the hiring decision. Poles emphasized that Johnson’s comprehensive plan for the team and his passion for the role made him the right choice to lead the Bears into a new era.
Johnson inherits a team that struggled this past season, finishing last in the NFC North and parting ways with head coach Matt Eberflus after a disappointing 10-game losing streak. Despite the challenges, Johnson brings a proven track record of offensive success, having guided the Lions to top-five finishes in total yards and points per game over his tenure. This past season, Detroit led the NFL in scoring, averaging 33.2 points per game.
The Bears will rely on Johnson’s expertise to develop their offense, which ranked near the bottom of the league in production last season. With rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, at the helm, Johnson’s offensive acumen will be pivotal in revitalizing Chicago’s attack and setting a competitive tone for the future.
In his introductory statement, Johnson expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and excitement to lead a franchise with such a rich history and passionate fanbase. He emphasized his commitment to building a championship-caliber team alongside the organization.
This hiring marks the start of a new chapter for the Bears, with hopes that Johnson’s leadership can transform the team into perennial contenders.