DETROIT (Michigan News Source) – Two days after the NFC Divisional loss to Washington, Detroit’s offensive coordinator Ben Johnson accepted the head coaching position at Chicago. Johnson has led the Lions’ offense the past three years to one of the best in the NFL.

Johnson said in a released statement, “The Chicago Bears are a world-class franchise with a phenomenal history and incredible fanbase. Having been on the opposing sideline, I can attest to how passionate Bears fans are about this city and their team, and I am honored to be their head coach.”

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The Lions led the NFL in points scored this season, going 15-2, and the offense averaged 28.2 points per game from 2022 to 2024. He has developed Jared Goff to become a premiere quarterback in the NFL, improving his QBR by almost 20 from 46 in 2022, when he took over, to 63 in his first season with him.

Chicago’s season ended with five wins, and they fired Matt Nagy in the middle of the season. Johnson has a challenging task ahead of him, but he has Caleb Williams, the no. 10 draft pick, and four selections in the top 72 this year. The Bears hope that Johnson can help develop Williams and bring Chicago back to the top of the NFC.

Bears General Manager Ryan Poles said of Johnson, Throughout our search process, I was thoroughly impressed by Ben’s character, intelligence, leadership, and ability to connect. 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.”

Johnson had a virtual interview on Jan. 11 during the first-round bye week. Johnson also interviewed with Jacksonville, Las Vegas, and New England.