'Progressive mind': Chicago Bears land Ben Johnson as new head coach
Ben Johnson helped Jared Goff establish himself as one of the NFL's top quarterbacks and now he'll try to do something similar for Caleb Williams.
The now-former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator finalised an agreement to become the new head coach of the Chicago Bears for next season.
The team confirmed the news in a statement on Wednesday (AEDT) in a deal that is worth an estimated $20.7 million AUD per season.
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Ben Johnson during his time with the Lions. Getty
“Having been on the opposing sideline, I can attest to how passionate Bears fans are about this city and their team and I am honoured to be their head coach,” Johnson said.
This will be the first head coaching job for the 38-year-old Johnson, who was widely considered the top candidate on the market after spending the past three seasons as working closely under Dan Campbell.
He joined Detroit's staff in 2019 following a seven-year run as an assistant in Miami.
During his time overseeing the offence, Goff has thrown for more than 4400 yards each of the past three seasons. He made two of his four career Pro Bowls in that stretch.
The Lions earned the top seed in the NFC at 15-2 before getting stunned by Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders in a divisional playoff game.
Jayden Daniels celebrates after leading Washington into the NFC championship game. Getty
Just days later, Johnson was already out the door.
“Throughout our search process, I was thoroughly impressed by Ben’s character, intelligence, leadership and ability to connect," Bears general manager Ryan Poles said.
"A progressive offensive mind, Ben’s plan for all three phases of our team, which is centered on creating a winning and competitive environment, became evidently clear.
"Meeting with Ben and gaining an understanding of his process and vision, the more confident we became that Ben is the right leader for our team and that he and I will be great partners in building our team and shaping our franchise for long-term success.”
Chicago fired Matt Eberflus on November 29 and replaced him on an interim basis with Thomas Brown as the team finished last in the NFC North with a poor 5-12 record.
The development of quarterback Williams will be the top priority for Johnson.
Caleb Williams had a mixed first season in the NFL. Getty
“There’s no question that this guy is talented. I remember standing on the sideline last game and you can hear the ball whistle by you," Johnson said last month.
"He’s got quite a fastball and has some creativity to him, can extend plays and is accurate down the field as well.
"I haven’t dove in and can tell you much more - but he’s been impressive from afar.”
