The Chicago Bears have appointed Ben Johnson, the former offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, as their new head coach. The decision was made public by CBS Sports NFL insider Jonathan Jones.

In his role as the Lions’ offensive coordinator, Johnson oversaw a high-scoring offense that averaged 29.0 points per game since he took the position in 2022, the highest figure in the NFL during this timeframe, including a record-setting 33.2 points per game in 2024.

Johnson will now focus on developing the franchise’s first overall pick, Caleb Williams, and other key players on the roster such as wide receivers D.J. Moore and Keenan Allen as well as tight end Cole Kmet. Under Johnson’s leadership, the Bears aim to improve after their offense ranked fifth-worst in the league last season, averaging just 18.2 points per game.

Lions Offense Under Ben Johnson (2022-2024)	2022-2024	NFL Ranks
PPG	29.0	1st
Total YPG	394.8	1st
Yards/Play	6.0	3rd
Pass YPG	258.0	1st
Rush YPG	136.8	5th
Red Zone TD %	66.7%	1st
Passer Rating	103.1	1st

During Johnson’s tenure, standout players have emerged, including running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who led the NFL with 20 scrimmage touchdowns in 2024, and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, who received consecutive first-team All-Pro honors. Johnson is expected to carry this momentum into his new role with the Bears, where he will manage a team that allowed 68 sacks last season, tying for the third-most in NFL history.

In 2024, Caleb Williams had a passer rating of 87.8, throwing for 3,541 yards and 20 touchdowns, ranking him 31st in completion percentage at 62.5%.

As the Bears transition into this new era under Johnson’s leadership, their focus will be on cultivating an effective offense while retaining their solid defense, ranked 13th in the NFL last season.