Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, will face the Chicago Bears’ quarterback for the second time this season on Sunday. Johnson, whose offensive schemes have made the Lions one of the most dynamic teams in the NFL, is widely expected to be the top coaching candidate in the upcoming offseason. His remarkable work with Detroit’s offense, which currently leads the league in scoring, has earned him recognition as a potential future “offensive guru.”
In 2023, Johnson was one of the most sought-after coaching talents, but instead of leaving for a head coaching role, he chose to return to the Lions for another season. His decision was driven by a desire to complete “unfinished business” with the Lions after a season in which they narrowly missed the Super Bowl. While he has turned down head coaching offers over the past two years, Johnson has made it clear that he is still driven by a deep ambition to eventually become a head coach.
This offseason, Johnson could finally seize that opportunity. The Chicago Bears, a team that recently parted ways with head coach Matt Eberflus, are seen as one of the league’s most promising teams. With a roster brimming with talent, the Bears’ most significant asset is their potential franchise quarterback, Caleb Williams. Johnson, with his expertise in developing quarterbacks and designing high-scoring offenses, would be an ideal candidate to guide Williams and elevate the team’s offensive performance.
When asked about Williams during a recent interview on 97.1 The Ticket, Johnson acknowledged the impressive potential of the Bears’ rookie quarterback. “It has been challenging to sit down and analyze each throw, but there is no doubt that this individual is talented,” Johnson said. “I recall standing on the sideline during the most recent game against the Bears and hearing the ball whistle as it came through the air. He is very accurate down the field, has a strong arm, is creative, and can extend plays.”
Despite this praise, Johnson clarified that he had not yet conducted an in-depth analysis of Williams’ play. However, his admiration for the quarterback’s skill set was evident. Johnson noted that while he has been closely watching the Bears and Williams from a distance, his focus remains firmly on his current responsibilities with the Lions. His priority is leading the team through their playoff push, and he remains committed to staying focused on the present.
“I am obligated to the people within the building to remain in the exact location where my feet are,” Johnson remarked. “When I walk into the facility and see the coaches working tirelessly late into the night, and the players attacking the practice field and meeting rooms every day, it is difficult for my mind to wander too far into the future.”
Johnson’s commitment to his role with the Lions is clear, and he is fully invested in their playoff run. He has made it a point to stay grounded, knowing that the success of the Lions this season could set the stage for even greater accomplishments down the line. Although many teams, including the Bears, are likely to interview him for head coaching positions after the regular season, he has stated that he will not consider any offers until the Lions’ season concludes.
The Bears’ interest in Johnson could intensify if they are able to finalize their plans for the future. With the team’s recent struggles under Eberflus and their desire to build a new foundation around a promising young quarterback, hiring an offensive mastermind like Johnson could be the right move. His ability to design and implement high-powered offenses, as seen in Detroit, would help maximize Williams’ talents and provide the Bears with the offensive identity they have been lacking in recent years.
The situation surrounding Johnson’s future is complicated by his current success with the Lions, which could make him hesitant to leave. While the allure of a head coaching job may eventually become too tempting to resist, his loyalty to Detroit and his ambition to bring the team to new heights may keep him in place for at least one more season. For Johnson, the timing of a potential head coaching opportunity must align with his long-term vision for success.
In the meantime, Johnson remains deeply engaged in the Lions’ efforts as they aim for a deep postseason run. The Lions have been one of the most exciting teams in the NFL this season, thanks in large part to the offensive explosion engineered by Johnson. Under his leadership, Detroit has flourished, with quarterback Jared Goff enjoying a career renaissance and the offense ranking at the top of the league in scoring. Johnson’s ability to harness the talents of his players, combined with his innovative approach to offense, has positioned him as one of the most coveted coaching minds in the NFL.
For now, though, Johnson’s attention is solely focused on the Lions’ quest for a championship. He has emphasized the importance of staying present, appreciating the hard work and dedication of his coaching staff and players, and keeping his eye on the ultimate goal: a Super Bowl title. Once the season concludes, Johnson will likely face a wave of interviews from teams eager to bring him on board as their head coach, but he has made it clear that any decision regarding his future will come after the Lions’ season is over.
As for the Bears, their future is closely tied to the development of Caleb Williams and the eventual hiring of a head coach who can unlock his full potential. Johnson, with his track record of offensive success, could be the ideal candidate to help Chicago take the next step toward becoming a contender. Whether or not Johnson chooses to leave Detroit for the Bears or another opportunity remains to be seen, but his rise as one of the most promising coaching talents in the NFL is undeniable.
For now, Johnson’s focus is on the Lions, and he will continue to pour his energy into making their playoff run a success. But as the offseason approaches, it’s clear that Johnson’s name will be at the top of many teams’ wish lists, including the Bears. His decision on whether to stay or go will have significant implications for the future of both the Lions and the teams that covet his talents.
