Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has declined head coaching opportunities in the past two hiring cycles, but his stock for 2024 remains high. He is once again considered one of the top candidates for a head coach position, though he is expected to be highly selective about where he chooses to go.
The Chicago Bears, with significant salary cap space, talented skill players, and rookie quarterback Caleb Williams on a cost-efficient contract, believe their head coach position will be one of the most desirable in the 2025 hiring cycle. Even Bill Belichick reportedly saw the role as attractive before making the unexpected decision to move to the college ranks. However, concerns about the Bears’ organizational dysfunction were raised in a November report, suggesting Johnson might avoid the role. Subsequent reports, however, indicated that Johnson may be open to the Chicago job. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero recently reported that Johnson is “intrigued” by the position and willing to hear the Bears’ pitch. Given Johnson’s selective approach, any meeting with Bears leadership would likely signal serious interest in accepting the role if offered.
While the Bears reportedly prioritize a “leader of men” for their next head coach, Johnson’s reputation as an offensive mastermind aligns with modern hiring trends. His expertise would be especially valuable in maximizing the potential of a promising talent like Caleb Williams.
Despite turning down a similarly attractive head coaching opportunity with the Commanders during the 2024 hiring cycle, Johnson has made it clear he intends to pursue a top job eventually. “There’s a burning desire in every man to find what he’s made out of and push the limits,” Johnson said, per Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. “So yeah, there’s a fire there. Now, when that time is? I don’t know, but there’s certainly a fire.”
When asked specifically about Caleb Williams, Johnson praised the rookie but admitted he hadn’t studied his tape extensively. “I haven’t had the chance to study every throw, but from the crossover tape I’ve seen, there’s no question he’s talented,” Johnson said. “He’s got a fastball, creativity, play extension ability, and accuracy downfield. He’s been impressive from afar.”
Whether Johnson chooses to leave Detroit in 2025 will likely be one of the most significant storylines of the coaching carousel. If he does, the Bears are expected to be strong contenders for his services.
Interestingly, Johnson, a UNC alumnus, was not contacted by the school regarding its head coaching vacancy, which ultimately went to Belichick, who will now continue his legendary career as the Tar Heels’head coach.
