Ex-Lions OC Ben Johnson Makes Surprising Admission About Taking Bears Job
Ben Johnson, the former offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions, has been one of the hottest names in the NFL coaching ranks ever since he took over the Lions’ offense in 2021. Under his guidance, Detroit’s offense showed dramatic improvement, becoming one of the most potent in the league. Johnson’s ability to design creative and efficient schemes while developing the talent on the roster has drawn attention from teams across the league, especially those looking for a new head coach.
However, despite his rising star, Johnson shocked many when he made a surprising admission about his decision-making process regarding taking a job with the Chicago Bears. After weeks of speculation and even a reported interview with the Bears for their vacant head coaching position, Johnson spoke candidly about his decision to turn down the opportunity, a choice that left many scratching their heads considering the clear appeal of being at the helm of a struggling franchise like the Bears.
The Admission
The admission came during a recent interview where Johnson discussed the process of evaluating potential job opportunities. While most candidates would jump at the chance to become a head coach in the NFL, especially one at a franchise like the Bears, Johnson made it clear that he wasn’t ready to leave his current position as the Lions’ OC for a number of reasons.
“The timing just wasn’t right for me,” Johnson said, surprising many who believed he would inevitably accept the offer. “I’ve got unfinished business here in Detroit. The situation in Chicago, while appealing to some, didn’t feel like the right fit for me at this moment in my career.”
When pressed further about what exactly about the Bears situation made it less enticing, Johnson was open and honest. “There’s a lot of instability in terms of the front office and the direction the team is heading. I think they have a lot of talent, especially on offense, but there’s a lot of work to do, and it’s not a job where you can come in and expect immediate success. I didn’t want to walk into a situation like that without the right kind of support system in place.”
What’s Interesting About Johnson’s Decision?
What’s particularly interesting about Johnson’s decision to stay with the Lions is that it contradicts a prevailing trend in the NFL, where coaches often take advantage of an opportunity to become a head coach, even when the circumstances may not be ideal. In an era where many coaches are eager to make the leap from coordinator to head coach, Johnson’s measured approach is refreshing and speaks to his understanding of what it takes to succeed in such a demanding role.
While some coaches may view the Bears as a job with significant upside, given their rich history, large market, and potential for a turnaround, Johnson clearly felt that the Lions’ offensive development was a more worthwhile pursuit. Over the past few years, Detroit has become a more competitive team, thanks in large part to Johnson’s innovative offensive schemes, which have been instrumental in developing Jared Goff and making the most out of playmakers like Amon-Ra St. Brown, David Montgomery, and Jameson Williams.
Johnson’s decision also reveals a deep sense of loyalty to the Lions’ organization, which is rare in a coaching world where success is often seen as being tied to moving up the ladder. It seems that Johnson values the culture and foundation that the Lions are building under head coach Dan Campbell and is invested in seeing that project through, even if it means potentially turning down bigger opportunities for now.
The Bears’ Situation
The Chicago Bears, one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, have long been in search of a solution to their offensive woes. The team has struggled to develop a consistent quarterback and has never been able to find the right formula for sustained offensive success. With Justin Fields showing flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency, the Bears seem to be in the middle of a rebuilding phase that could take several more years to fully take shape.
The organization is also undergoing significant changes behind the scenes. Bears general manager Ryan Poles is still in the process of solidifying his vision for the team, and there have been multiple head coaching changes in recent years, leaving a sense of instability within the organization. With so much uncertainty around leadership and future direction, it’s easy to understand why someone like Johnson would hesitate to take on such a challenge.
Moreover, Johnson’s decision to stay with the Lions reflects a broader trend that is emerging in the league: many coaches are now prioritizing stability and organizational alignment over just landing the head coach title. More and more candidates are taking time to ensure that the team they join has a clear vision, a solid support system, and the long-term commitment to success.
The Impact of Johnson’s Decision
Johnson’s decision to stay in Detroit not only speaks to his commitment to the Lions but also reflects on the team’s growing reputation as an appealing destination for coaches and players alike. The Lions are in the middle of an impressive rebuild under Campbell, and Johnson is clearly invested in their success moving forward. His decision may also signal a shift in how coaches view opportunities with rebuilding teams, focusing less on the immediate prestige and more on the long-term potential of the team and the environment surrounding it.
For the Bears, Johnson’s refusal to take the job is a tough blow. While they ultimately hired Matt Eberflus in 2022, they continue to struggle with finding the right offensive identity. Johnson’s innovative approach would have been an intriguing fit, especially given the talent on the offensive side of the ball. However, his decision to pass on the job forces the Bears to reevaluate their search for the next big name, which could mean looking in a different direction to find someone who can bring consistency to their offense.
Conclusion
Ben Johnson’s surprising admission about turning down the Bears job reveals a side of coaching that isn’t often discussed—the importance of timing, stability, and organizational fit. While many may have expected him to jump at the opportunity to become a head coach, his decision to stay with the Lions speaks volumes about his understanding of the challenges and long-term nature of NFL coaching. It’s a decision that underscores his commitment to his current project in Detroit, and while it may have been a difficult choice, it could ultimately pay off both for Johnson and the Lions down the line.