Ben Johnson Named Chicago Bears Head Coach After Lions’ Playoff Exit

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Chicago Bears officially introduced Ben Johnson as their new head coach during a press conference on Wednesday, just days after the former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator’s season ended in a divisional-round playoff loss to the Washington Commanders.

Johnson, who had been with the Lions since 2019, emphasized the importance of alignment and structure in his decision to join the Bears. “I talked about alignment last year when I came back to Detroit — and that was really important to me, to see that the structure setup was conducive to winning,” Johnson said. “All those questions were answered throughout the interview process.”

The Bears moved quickly to secure Johnson after the Lions’ playoff exit, with Johnson noting that the organization’s leadership, including Chairman George McCaskey, President Kevin Warren, and General Manager Ryan Poles, played a key role in his decision. “I believe in them,” Johnson said. “And I really believe that we will be able to turn this place around.”

Johnson, who has a history with Poles dating back to their time at Boston College, expressed confidence in their working relationship. “Ryan did his homework, people on my end did our homework as well,” Johnson said. “I truly believe in the character and integrity of this man.”

The new head coach also praised the Bears’ facilities and roster, calling the team a “sleeping giant.” “Walking in this building yesterday gave me goosebumps,” Johnson said. “I don’t think many people understand how set up for success this place already is.”

Meanwhile, Johnson’s departure from Detroit has sparked some friendly rivalry with former players, including star receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. On his podcast, St. Brown joked about facing Johnson twice a year. “I told him, I said, ‘Two times a year, Ben, we’re going to f–k you up,'” St. Brown said, laughing. Johnson reportedly responded in kind, saying, “I’m going to f–k you up.”

Despite the banter, St. Brown acknowledged Johnson’s dedication during the Lions’ playoff run. “I know he was as locked in as he could be for that game,” St. Brown said. Johnson’s move to Chicago marks the first of several expected coaching changes for the Lions, with defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn also rumored to be departing.

Johnson’s arrival in Chicago comes as the Bears aim to rebuild in a competitive NFC North division, where the Lions, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings all made the playoffs in 2024. Johnson expressed optimism about the team’s future, stating, “I look forward to meeting all the people in this facility and getting to work.”