Ben Johnson is an ideal choice for Caleb Williams, as the Chicago Bears have made a significant move by hiring the former Lions offensive coordinator as their new head coach. This decision comes just as the conference championship games are set to unfold in Kansas City and Philadelphia, marking a pivotal moment for the Bears franchise.
Chicago’s decision to bring in a new head coach was anticipated after the team parted ways with Matt Eberflus the day after Thanksgiving. However, the surprise lies in the fact that they secured the most sought-after coaching candidate available this season.
While the true impact of this hire will unfold over time, it certainly feels like a landmark day for the Bears and their passionate fanbase.
The Bears, known for their storied history in the NFL, operate in a city that is deeply passionate about football. The pairing of last year’s No. 1 overall draft pick, Caleb Williams, with the mastermind behind one of the league’s most effective offenses over the last few years is a prospect that has fans buzzing with excitement about what lies ahead.
To further explore the implications of this coaching change, Carmen Vitali and David Helman have shared their insights on the Johnson hire.
1. Is Ben Johnson a good fit for Caleb Williams? What adjustments will they need to make for each other?
Vitali: Ben Johnson’s hiring is expected to be a home run. He has significantly improved Jared Goff’s performance during his tenure in Detroit. Goff, who struggled with a 45.5 QBR in his first year under Johnson, has since seen his numbers soar, culminating in a career-high 68.4 QBR this season, which helped lead the Lions to a franchise-record 15 victories. Johnson’s influence on Goff’s career trajectory cannot be overstated.
The Bears are optimistic that Johnson can replicate this success with Williams, who, unlike Goff, is entering the league with less experience. This raises the question of whether the process will be expedited or prolonged under Johnson’s guidance. Notably, Johnson’s offenses have consistently ranked among the top in the league, finishing no lower than fourth in yards per game and fifth in points per game during his three years as a coordinator.
The challenge for Johnson will be balancing his intense focus on offense with the broader responsibilities of head coaching. He will need to oversee not only the game strategy but also team logistics, communication with staff, and public relations, all while developing a young quarterback in a major media market. This will undoubtedly involve a learning curve, and it remains to be seen if Williams and the Bears’ fanbase will exhibit the necessary patience during this transition.
Helman: While Johnson’s previous success has been tied to Goff, there is optimism that he can adapt his approach to fit Williams’ unique skill set. Adjusting to a new primary coach and play caller will be a significant change for Williams, who had a more streamlined experience last season. Johnson’s ability to build a strong supporting staff will be crucial in this adjustment process.
2. What should Johnson seek in a defensive coordinator, and who fits that profile?
Helman:Johnson’s top priority should be hiring a defensive coordinator with substantial experience, ideally someone who has previously held a head coaching position. This experience will be invaluable as Johnson navigates the complexities of leading a team. It’s essential that this individual possesses a collaborative spirit and does not threaten Johnson’s authority.
The current roster’s composition will also influence the choice of defensive scheme. Johnson and his new coordinator must evaluate whether the existing players align with a 4-3 or if a shift to a 3-4 scheme is feasible. Balancing these needs with offensive demands will be critical for the team’s overall success.
If Allen is not the choice, alternatives like Steve Wilks or Robert Saleh could be strong candidates, given their similar qualifications.
Helman: The Bears made headlines by securing the most sought-after coaching candidate, which indicates a commitment to improvement. However, true progress will require ongoing collaboration between Johnson and the general manager, ensuring their visions align for the future.
Successful organizations in the NFL thrive on unity of purpose. Bears fans should hope that both Johnson and Poles can work together to build a foundation that will lead to sustained success.
The current landscape shows that other teams in the NFC North are poised for success, making it crucial for the Bears to demonstrate progress before setting lofty expectations. As fans, it’s essential to manage expectations while hoping for a turnaround in the coming seasons.
5. Will Johnson be the best Bears coach since ___?
Vitali: It’s wise to remain cautious. Bears fans have experienced highs and lows, and the organization has not consistently performed at a high level. Johnson’s potential is promising, but it remains to be seen how quickly he can effect change.
Helman: Fortunately, the bar for success is not set particularly high. Lovie Smith is the only Bears head coach since Mike Ditka to leave with a winning record. The team’s recent history has been marked by struggles, with only one division title in the last 12 years and no playoff victories since 2010.
If Johnson can deliver a winning record, he will surpass the performance of recent coaches. Achieving a division title or a playoff win would solidify his place as one of the best Bears coaches in recent memory.
Carmen Vitali serves as an NFL Reporter for FOX Sports, bringing her experience from previous roles with The Draft Network and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. During her time with the Buccaneers, she celebrated a Super Bowl victory, adding to her impressive credentials. Follow Carmen on Twitter at @CarmieV.
