
The Chicago Bears have made a big move, bringing in Ben Johnson as their new head coach. The announcement came on Tuesday, just days after Johnson’s Detroit Lions were knocked out of the playoffs. At 38, this will be his first time leading an NFL team, and fans are already buzzing with excitement.
Johnson has been a hot name in coaching circles, thanks to his work turning the Lions’ offense into one of the league’s most explosive units. Before he stepped in as offensive coordinator in 2022, Detroit was struggling with a dismal 3-13-1 record. Fast forward two years, and the Lions finished the 2024 season with a stellar 15-2 record, tying for the best in the league.
Known for his innovative play-calling, Johnson’s offenses have consistently put up big numbers. In 2024, the Lions led the NFL with 564 points scored. This track record has Bears fans hopeful that he can work similar magic with their young quarterback, Caleb Williams, the top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
In a video shared on the Bears’ social media, Johnson didn’t hold back his enthusiasm. “Beyond fired up to be here! This is exciting times. Cannot wait to get to work,” he said, signing off with a spirited, “Bear down, baby!”
Bears General Manager Ryan Poles praised Johnson’s leadership and vision. “Ben’s plan for all three phases of our team, centered on creating a winning and competitive environment, became evidently clear,” Poles said in a statement.
Johnson isn’t just bringing fresh energy to Chicago; he’s also becoming the second-youngest head coach in the NFL, trailing only Seattle’s Mike Macdonald, who’s 37. The Bears fired their previous coach, Matt Eberflus, back in November after a tough Thanksgiving loss to Johnson’s Lions.
With Johnson’s hiring, the Bears join the ranks of teams looking to rebuild and compete. Meanwhile, five other NFL teams—the Dallas Cowboys, New York Jets, Jacksonville Jaguars, New Orleans Saints, and Las Vegas Raiders—are still on the hunt for their next head coach.
Johnson’s official introduction will take place at a press conference in Chicago this Wednesday. Bears fans, get ready—big changes are on the horizon.