Most experts would agree that Ben Johnson is the golden jewel heading into the 2025 head coaching circuit. The Detroit Lions offensive coordinator has crafted one of the most devastating units in the NFL for the past three years. It isn’t surprising Chicago Bears fans have him circled as the priority target in January once Matt Eberflus is fired. Pairing him with Caleb Williams feels like a no-brainer. However, insiders have indicated for weeks that Johnson won’t jump at any job. He wants one that fits the right criteria.
Tom Pelissero of NFL Network added some crucial details on this. The coordinator is looking for one thing above all else, and it is something the Bears might not be willing to offer.
A former walk-on QB who earned math and computer science degrees at North Carolina, Johnson has established himself as one of the brightest minds in football. He was a coveted candidate during each of the past two hiring cycles, interviewing for seven jobs (Chargers, Colts, Commanders, Falcons, Panthers, Seahawks and Texans) before ultimately deciding to stay put. He isn’t necessarily waiting for the “perfect” opportunity — Johnson just wants to know there’s alignment and a chance for long-term success. Otherwise, he’ll stick with a job, team and city he loves in Detroit. Johnson coached quarterbacks, receivers and tight ends before becoming the Lions’ offensive coordinator in 2022, giving him a good feel for the whole picture.
The Bears would likely have to fire Ryan Poles. If they decide to keep the embattled GM, any coach coming in would have to assume the guy is on the hot seat after three straight losing seasons. That immediately adds pressure to win immediately, which is not something Ben Johnson would want. Alignment means being on the same page with the GM. In other words, he’d prefer to work with somebody who has a little more long-term security. Poles wouldn’t be able to offer that, no matter what assurances the McCaskeys offer. If the Bears are committed to landing Johnson, it may require dumping Poles in favor of a new GM who can be aligned with the coach from the start.
Would George McCaskey do it? Remember, he spearheaded hiring Poles. By all accounts, he is a big admirer of the GM. He was willing to give Ryan Pace a second chance to hire a coach. Poles hasn’t done anything egregious enough to be denied the same courtesy. Everything depends on how motivated the team is to get Johnson.
