The Chicago Bears have had a rough season, one that was expected to be exciting with Caleb Williams’ rookie year, but has instead been full of disappointment. The Bears even fired both their offensive coordinator and head coach before the season ended, with two games still to go. The search for a new head coach has become a major topic of conversation in Chicago, and it’s clear that the Bears plan to conduct a thorough search. However, NFL Insider Courtney Cronin’s latest report suggests that the Bears may want to rethink their plans after the season.
Caleb Williams is quietly putting together one of the most underrated seasons for a rookie quarterback.
Let’s break down the numbers:
In the 4th Quarter:
102/157 – 65%
988 yards
9 TD
1 INT
98.9 passer rating. pic.twitter.com/k7MbPM3Gv6— Dave (@dave_bfr) December 23, 2024
According to Courtney Cronin/ESPN, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson impressed during a close-up audition when the Bears were embarrassed in their most recent matchup. Courtney Cronin reported, “Sources confirmed to ESPN that Ben Johnson is expected to interview for the Bears head coaching vacancy.”
Sources confirmed to ESPN that Johnson, the Lions’ offensive coordinator, is expected to interview for the Bears’ head coaching vacancy.
Given this update, Chicago should act quickly once the NFL season ends. Previous reports have indicated that Johnson is only willing to take interviews for jobs he’s genuinely interested in taking this coaching cycle. After participating in several interviews in the past few off-seasons, Johnson is being more selective this time around, which suggests that he’s open to taking the this Bears’ job.
Ben Johnson is expected to interview for the Bears head coaching vacancy, per ESPN.
A couple of weeks ago, reports emerged that Ben Johnson will only take interviews for jobs he is willing to accept.
Chicago, it doesn't get any easier than this.https://t.co/KzQrahPCUP
— Dave (@dave_bfr) December 24, 2024
If the reports are true, Chicago could land the most sought-after coaching candidate on the market in recent memory. There’s no need to look elsewhere unless something unexpected happens during the interview with Johnson—though that’s unlikely.
The Bears coaching search is over. pic.twitter.com/o6vFOkeuhl
— Dave (@dave_bfr) December 22, 2024
After all, the Bears have already conducted extensive coaching searches in the past, including interviewing nine offensive coordinators last year before ultimately hiring Shane Waldron, which didn’t work out. It would make sense for the Bears to bypass another long search and simply hire Ben Johnson. He’s the right fit to help Caleb Williams reach his full potential.
