• Sat. Feb 15th, 2025

Within the Bears’ selection of coach Ben Johnson

ByGbemiro Timmy

Feb 3, 2025

LAKE FOREST, Ill. — On Sunday, Jan. 19, following the Detroit Lions’ unexpected playoff defeat against the Washington Commanders, the Chicago Bears contemplated sending their hiring committee to Michigan to demonstrate to Ben Johnson how much they desired him as their head coach, as per a team source.

 

Johnson, who has served as the Lions’ offensive coordinator since 2022 and has been a leading candidate for three consecutive coaching cycles, had become unresponsive after his virtual interview with the Bears on Jan. 11 during Detroit’s first-round bye. League regulations prohibited Chicago and other teams from conducting a second interview with Johnson until January 20, two days following the conclusion of Detroit’s season.

 

The Bears’ group ultimately chose not to go, deciding to allow Johnson to handle the letdown of losing as the NFC’s top seed. Johnson had rejected earlier head coaching offers as he aimed to secure a Super Bowl victory with Detroit, but now he realized he would be progressing to a new chapter.

 

While the Bears aimed to honor Johnson’s time and space, there was also a feeling of urgency. There was a sense that Las Vegas Raiders minority owner Tom Brady was advocating for Johnson, and even if the Bears didn’t think that was accurate, other opportunities existed that Johnson might explore. According to a source knowledgeable about the process, the Bears prioritized “culture and the quarterback” in the interviews, believing that Johnson would thrive in both areas, particularly in enhancing Caleb Williams’ potential.

 

“After going through the procedure and interviewing a wide range of candidates when Ben stood out as No. 1, and [general manager] Ryan [Poles] stated we must secure him, you needed to be prepared to act,” said Bears chairman George McCaskey.

However, prior to that, the Bears welcomed Tennessee State coach Eddie George on January 19. This ensured the Bears followed the Rooney Rule, mandating a minimum of two external in-person interviews with minority candidates — Ron Rivera being the other. According to two sources, George’s interview was arranged at least a week prior. This was the sole head coaching interview George had during this cycle.

 

A contact familiar with George referred to the interview as a “wonderful experience” that will open doors to additional coaching prospects for the ex-NFL running back. A member of the Bears’ interview committee considered George’s interview to be “excellent.”

 

If team president Kevin Warren had any uncertainty regarding his team’s fan base favorite, it was eased on the evening of the Lions’ defeat, when he and his wife, Greta, dined at Old Pueblo Cantina in Chicago’s Lincoln Park area.

 

While the game played on the bar’s large screen, Bears supporter Chris Stein sent two shots of tequila to the Warrens accompanied by a note from Stein’s girlfriend, Ryanne Braun.

 

 

 

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