Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is reportedly set to be named as the new head coach of the Chicago Bears, following multiple reports.
Johnson emerged as one of 17 candidates for the position and will be taking over a Bears team that struggled in the NFC North this season, finishing at the bottom despite a strong start with four wins in their first six games.
After their initial success, Chicago (5-12) went on a 10-game losing streak, culminating in a 23-20 loss to Detroit on Thanksgiving Day. This defeat led to the firing of coach Matt Eberflus on November 29, with Thomas Brown stepping in as interim coach for the rest of the season.
Having served as Detroit’s offensive coordinator under Dan Campbell for three seasons, Johnson played a key role in developing quarterback Jared Goff into one of the league’s top players. The 38-year-old is widely regarded as the leading candidate for the head-coaching position.
The Bears conducted interviews with 17 candidates, including former NFL coaches like Pete Carroll, Mike McCarthy, and Mike Vrabel, who went on to become the head coach of the New England Patriots.
Johnson’s Challenge with the Bears
Despite finishing with the top seed in the NFC at 15-2, the Lions suffered a shocking playoff defeat to the Washington Commanders. Detroit led the league in points per game and ranked second in passing yards and total yards per game during the regular season.
Johnson’s primary focus will be on the development of quarterback Caleb Williams, who threw for impressive numbers but faced a record number of sacks in the previous season.
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Highlights of Washington Commanders at Detroit Lions in the NFL playoffs divisional round
Johnson had high praise for Williams before the Lions faced the Bears in Week 16, commending his talent and impressive skills on the field.
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Take a look at the best trick plays from the Detroit Lions in the 2024 NFL season, including Jared Goff catching touchdowns, lateral passes and even fake fumbles
Chicago has struggled to make an impact in the playoffs in recent years, with their last successful postseason run dating back to 2010. The team made significant moves in the offseason, including acquiring Williams and trading for Pro Bowl receiver Keenan Allen.
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Speaking on the Inside the Huddle podcast, Neil Reynolds and Jeff Reinebold reflected on the progress of Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams in the opening weeks of the NFL season
Chicago’s season took a turn for the worse after a promising start, leading to the firing of the head coach and offensive coordinator mid-season. Brown, who initially served as passing game coordinator, took over as interim coach and managed to secure a victory against the Green Bay Packers in the final game of the regular season.
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