The Chicago Bears have taken a bold step by appointing former Lions Offensive Coordinator Ben Johnson as their new head coach.
The organization hopes Johnson can guide the team to consistent success, a feat the franchise and its fans have been yearning for over the years.
Johnson emerged as one of the most sought-after coaching candidates, thanks to his creative offensive schemes and ability to build high-scoring offenses.
These qualities made him an attractive hire for the Bears, who now trust him to assemble a top-notch coaching staff to elevate the team’s performance.
As Johnson begins his tenure, one key decision he faces is hiring a defensive coordinator. However, he’ll also need to fill other crucial coaching positions.
A logical move would be to recruit familiar faces from the Detroit Lions, where he developed strong working relationships.
Here are three Lions coaches Johnson might target for his staff:
Tanner Engstrand, Lions Passing Game Coordinator
Tanner Engstrand is a promising coach who has earned widespread recognition in the league.
He has worked closely with Johnson in various capacities, including as the Lions’ tight ends coach and passing game coordinator.
His experience and connection with Johnson make him an excellent candidate for the offensive coordinator role with the Bears.
However, the Lions might promote him internally to replace Johnson, which could complicate matters for Chicago.
Hank Fraley, Lions Offensive Line Coach
Hank Fraley is an intriguing option for Johnson.
Fraley has excelled in developing one of the league’s best offensive lines and has garnered attention for his impressive coaching abilities.
He recently interviewed with the Seattle Seahawks for their offensive coordinator vacancy, indicating his rising stock in the NFL.
While he could aim for a higher role elsewhere, Johnson might convince Fraley to join the Bears, especially if he’s offered a prominent position on the staff.
Mark Brunell, Lions Quarterback Coach
Mark Brunell, a former NFL quarterback with a successful playing career, has transitioned seamlessly into coaching. Since 2021, he has worked alongside Johnson as the Lions’ quarterback coach.
Reports suggest that Johnson might want to bring Brunell with him to Chicago, either as a quarterback coach or offensive coordinator. This move would benefit the Bears’ young quarterbacks, particularly someone like Caleb Williams.
However, Brunell is also a candidate for an internal promotion with the Lions, which could keep him in Detroit.
Ben Johnson’s approach to assembling his coaching staff will play a pivotal role in shaping the Bears’ future.
Whether he brings some of his trusted colleagues from Detroit or explores other options, his focus on player development is evident.
The Lions have been a model for player growth in recent years, and Johnson seems poised to replicate that success in Chicago.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Johnson can lure these talented assistants to join him on his journey with the Bears.
Regardless of his choices, the team’s fans have every reason to be optimistic about the direction their franchise is heading.