Breaking News: New Bears head coach Ben Johnson hinted at the possibility of bringing key Lions staff with him to Chicago as he begins to…

The Chicago Bears have officially named Ben Johnson, the former offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, as their new head coach. Johnson, who helped revitalize the Lions’ offense and establish them as one of the NFL’s top-scoring teams, now takes on the challenge of rebuilding the Bears. As he transitions into this new role, there are strong indications that Johnson may bring key personnel from the Lions to join him in Chicago, a move that could significantly shape the Bears’ future.

Ben Johnson’s Offensive Brilliance in Detroit

Ben Johnson’s rise to prominence in the NFL coaching ranks can largely be credited to his innovative and adaptable approach to offense. During his tenure in Detroit, Johnson transformed a previously inconsistent Lions offense into a juggernaut. His creative play designs, intelligent game planning, and ability to maximize player strengths were pivotal in the Lions’ resurgence.

Under Johnson’s leadership, quarterback Jared Goff experienced a career revival, leading the league in several categories and solidifying his status as a top-tier passer. Johnson also successfully utilized the talents of skill players like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Jameson Williams, creating an offense that was as unpredictable as it was efficient. In 2024, Detroit’s offense ranked first in points per game and achieved record-breaking results for the franchise.

It’s this proven track record that has Bears fans hopeful Johnson can bring similar success to Chicago. However, to replicate such results, he’ll need a strong support system, both on the field and on the sidelines.

The Potential for a Detroit Connection in Chicago

The rumors surrounding Johnson’s transition to Chicago suggest that he may tap into familiar territory by bringing trusted Lions personnel with him. This strategy would not only ensure a smoother implementation of his offensive philosophy but also provide a level of continuity as he establishes his system with the Bears.

Two names that have surfaced as potential candidates for Johnson’s staff are Mark Brunell and Hank Fraley. Both were instrumental to Detroit’s offensive success and share a strong working relationship with Johnson.

• Mark Brunell: The Lions’ quarterbacks coach, Brunell has been a key figure in Jared Goff’s resurgence. His deep understanding of quarterback play and ability to develop talent could be a tremendous asset for the Bears, especially with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams leading the offense. As the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Williams has immense potential, and Brunell’s guidance could accelerate his growth.
• Hank Fraley: Detroit’s offensive line coach has earned a reputation for building one of the most dominant offensive lines in football. The Bears, who have struggled with protecting their quarterback in recent years, could benefit greatly from Fraley’s expertise. His presence in Chicago would help address one of the team’s most pressing issues.

Bringing these coaches along would not only bolster Johnson’s staff but also signal a clear intention to replicate the winning formula he helped establish in Detroit.

The Implications for the Chicago Bears

The Bears’ decision to hire Ben Johnson underscores their commitment to overhauling an offense that has underperformed for years. With Johnson at the helm, there is renewed optimism about the team’s ability to compete at a high level. Much of that optimism centers on Caleb Williams, who is widely regarded as a generational quarterback talent.

Williams’ development will be at the forefront of Johnson’s priorities. To maximize his potential, Johnson will need to implement an offensive system that plays to Williams’ strengths while also addressing the Bears’ weaknesses, such as the offensive line and receiving corps. The addition of Brunell and Fraley could significantly aid in this process.

Furthermore, Johnson’s rumored plan to bring in high-profile coaches like Dennis Allen as defensive coordinator demonstrates a strategic approach to building a balanced and competitive team. By surrounding himself with experienced and capable coaches, Johnson is laying the groundwork for a successful tenure in Chicago.

Impact on the Detroit Lions

While Johnson’s move to Chicago is a major win for the Bears, it represents a significant loss for the Lions. Johnson was a key architect of Detroit’s offensive renaissance, and his departure could disrupt the momentum the team has built over the past few seasons. If Johnson does indeed bring other Lions coaches with him to Chicago, the impact on Detroit could be even greater.

However, Lions head coach Dan Campbell has expressed confidence in the organization’s ability to adapt to these changes. Detroit’s front office has demonstrated a knack for identifying and developing coaching talent, and they will likely prioritize finding the right replacements to continue the team’s upward trajectory.

A New Era for the Bears

For Chicago, hiring Ben Johnson is about more than just finding a new head coach—it’s about setting a new course for the franchise. Johnson’s offensive expertise, combined with his potential ability to assemble a top-tier coaching staff, positions the Bears to take significant strides forward. The team’s struggles in recent years have left fans eager for a fresh start, and Johnson’s arrival signals hope for a brighter future.

As the Bears prepare for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on how Johnson shapes his staff and implements his vision. The prospect of bringing trusted personnel from Detroit could provide the continuity and familiarity needed to jumpstart the rebuilding process. For Johnson and the Bears, the challenge ahead is significant, but so is the opportunity to transform a struggling franchise into a contender.