Ben Johnson was widely considered one of the two best candidates in the 2025 head coaching cycle. Everybody knew Mike Vrabel was destined to return home to New England, replacing the overmatched Jerod Mayo. That meant Johnson pretty much had the field to himself. He could've interviewed for every job and had teams get into a bidding war for his services. However, the 38-year-old wanted to ensure he went somewhere right for him and his family. After careful research and a round of interviews, he went with the Chicago Bears.
It was the first time that it felt like a top guy chose this organization. Think of the prom queen dancing with the nerd nobody talks to. His presence suddenly elevates the expectations for Chicago moving forward. Now fans got their first glimpse of how he was introduced to Halas Hall on the latest episode of 1920 Football Drive. Continuing a new tradition, George McCaskey was first to greet him at the airport via a private jet. Then came the enthusiastic welcome from the building, which he did not expect. Then came the customary hat for every head coach and his new office.
Johnson admitted that everything was first class, another sign that the Bears have upgraded their entire process.
Ben Johnson understands the challenges ahead of him.
That speech he made upon arrival was poignant. If the Bears are going to overcome their recent history of losing, it will take the efforts of every single person in that building. They must do everything in their power to help get the players comfortable, confident, and prepared for the challenges ahead. He's already seen the blueprint. Ben Johnson was in the trenches during the massive efforts to pull the Detroit Lions out of the mud a few years ago. Now they're a top contender in the NFC. He feels the Bears are close. Ryan Poles has built a strong foundation to win. All it should take is one more good push. It starts with Johnson and the coaching staff cleaning up the little things. He promised players would be put in a state of competitive angst. We will soon find out who can handle it and who can't.
