Some Inside NFL Think Bears Stealing Ben Johnson Will Ruin Lions

The Chicago Bears knew they had to swing big for their next head coach. For too long, they were content trying to get on base with bunts like Matt Eberflus, Matt Nagy, and Marc Trestman. They never seemed willing to go after the biggest fish of every coaching cycle. Some wondered if they were too cheap to do so or were just that ignorant of who the top candidates were. Whatever the case, GM Ryan Poles knew before the 2024 season was even over that he wanted Ben Johnson.

He recognized that the Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator was special. His intelligence, creativity, and attention to detail stood out every week. Dan Campbell got much-deserved credit for turning that franchise around, but Johnson's offense led the way. Lions fans weren't happy to see him leave, especially to a division rival. However, they feel the team will remain atop the NFC North regardless. Not everybody agrees with them, including some inside the NFL. Jeff Hughes of Da Bears Blog spoke to sources. More than one thinks the Lions are due for a serious regression.

Pro Personnel Assistant: “Packers. Vikings. Bears. Lions. I think if Ben gets this team to 9-8 that will be a solid foundation for him to build on moving forward.”

Ben Johnson wouldn't be the first assistant to exit and tank a franchise.

The Bears know the feeling all too well. When Vic Fangio left in 2019, the defense was never the same as it was in 2018, when they were the best in the NFL. That pushed Chicago to a middle-of-the-road team and eventually back into a rebuild. The same happened to the Atlanta Falcons when Kyle Shanahan left. The team barely made the playoffs the next year and completely fell apart in the next few seasons. Ben Johnson is a unique specimen. Coaches with his level of acuity are rare. Replacing them is exceedingly difficult. John Morton may prove a solid heir apparent, but he has gigantic shoes to fill. If he can't, there is no way Detroit will be able to maintain its grip on the NFC North.