A New Vision for Chicago: Ryan PolesPoles’idence in Johnson

Ryan Poles, the General Manager of the Bears, expressed his excitement about Johnson joining the team, stating:

“Our entire organization is fired up about Ben Johnson. Throughout the entire process, we came away really impressed with his passion, his leadership, his football IQ, and his vision for winning football.”

Ben Johnson’s Coaching Journey: From Walk-On QB to NFL Head Coach

College Coaching (2009-2011)

• 2009: Hired as an offensive graduate assistant at Boston College.
• 2011: Promoted to tight ends coach under Frank Spaziani.
• Boston College record declined from 8-5 in 2009 to 4-8 in 2011.
• 2011: Johnson leaped the NFL.

NFL Coaching Career

Miami Dolphins (2012-2018)

• Hired as Offensive Assistant under head coach Joe Philbin.
• He worked with multiple offensive positions, honing his play-calling expertise.
• He developed strong ties with Dan Campbell, who later became his boss in Detroit.

Detroit Lions (2019-2024)

• 2019-2021: Offensive Assistant & Tight Ends Coach.
• 2022-2024: Promoted to Offensive Coordinator, overseeing one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses.
• Led Lions’ offense from a 9-8 record to a franchise-best 15-2 in 2023.
• Designed creative schemes that elevated Jared Goff and turned the Lions into an NFC powerhouse.

Johnson’s offensive mind was so impressive that he became one of the most popular coaching candidates for the 2024 offseason, ultimately leading to his hiring in Chicago.

Ben Johnson’s Introductory Press Conference: Setting the Tone

Johnson made his intentions known during his introductory press conference:

“It was clear to me from the beginning that the priorities were straight. There’s only one way for us to have success here, and that’s having the right people in place.

George, thank you for trusting the people you hired. It is perfectly clear that you’re going to provide all the resources necessary for us to build a sustained winner here in Chicago.”

“Ryan, what you and your staff have already built here is enticing. This roster is absolutely loaded with talent, and I cannot wait to build on it. We’re going to be in lockstep every step of the way.”

Johnson’s passion, strategy, and leadership have led the Bears fans to eagerly anticipate what’s to come.

Chicago Bears Coaching Staff Under Ben Johnson

Even though Johnson is a new head coach, his extensive experience and the staff he has gathered give the Bears a solid foundation. Former NFL stars and seasoned assistants are among the notable names on his coaching staff.

Key Coaching Staff Members:

• Ben Johnson – Head Coach
• Dennis Allen – Defensive Coordinator
• Declan Doyle – Offensive Coordinator
• Richard Hightower – Special Teams Coordinator
• Antwaan Randle El – Assistant Head Coach / Wide Receivers
• J.T. Barrett – Quarterbacks Coach
• Eric Bieniemy – Running Backs Coach
• Al Harris – Pass Game Coordinator / Defensive Backs
• Press Taylor – Pass Game Coordinator
• Dan Roushar – Offensive Line Coach

Johnson’s comprehensive coaching staff incorporates innovative minds and experienced leaders to help reshape the franchise.

Why Bears Fans Should Be Excited for Ben Johnson

Johnson’s offensive expertise could bring balance and firepower to the Bears, even though Chicago has struggled offensively for a while. The reason for fans to be optimistic is:

1. A Modern, Dynamic Offense

Detroit’s offense became one of the NFL’s most feared units under Johnson’s watch. His plan for Chicago will be a creative, high-powered strategy, maximizing the potential of young talent such as Justin Fields (or a new rookie quarterback).

2. Proven Player Development

• Helped Jared Goff revive his career in Detroit.
• Maximized talent like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta.
• Can help Chicago’s young stars thrive.

3. A Fresh Start & Culture Shift

• The Bears have lacked an offensive identity for years.
• Johnson’s leadership, energy, and offensive philosophy will instill confidence.
• Chicago is investing in a long-term contender, not just a short-term fix.