NFL insider names team to watch to hire Lions OC Ben Johnson

Detroit Lions (14-2) offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has been a hot commodity the last couple years in the head coaching market, and the same remains true for 2025.

Johnson might be atop the list for most teams looking to fill their vacancy, but one team appears to have the upper hand. Speaking Tuesday on “Good Morning Football,” NFL insider Tom Pelissero said that if Johnson takes a job this cycle, he would bet on it being with the Chicago Bears (4-12).

From @gmfb: Breaking down some big names in the upcoming coaching carousel with @PSchrags — and one surprise name you may hear. @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/t3dfHIiCu2

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 31, 2024

“My understanding is Ben Johnson is in a much better place in terms of thinking about what he wants in a head coaching opportunity. It doesn’t have to be the perfect job, but he does want a place where he’s got alignment and the opportunity to build something with sustainable success like they have in Detroit. The job that comes up more than any other is within the division with the Chicago Bears,” Pelissero said. “I am told that Ben Johnson is intrigued by that job and when it comes his time to interview which it depends whether or not the Lions have the [first round] bye, he is going to listen.

“He’s got a lot to like in Chicago with Caleb Williams, the raw talent there, they got a ton of cap space, they got extra draft picks, big market, they’re hoping to break ground on a new stadium in 2025. It’s not to say that’s the only job Ben Johnson would consider, but right now if you’re asking me where does Ben Johnson end up if he takes a job, right now I would say your best bet is Chicago.”

Bears eyeing Ben Johnson to pair with Caleb Williams?

The Bears are looking for the 18th head coach in their history following the dismissal of Matt Eberflus after the Thanksgiving Day loss to Johnson and the Lions. Expectations were high in Chicago this season, especially after the organization selected quarterback Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick. The Bears jumped out to a 4-2 start but have dropped 10 consecutive games. Chicago has been disastrous offensively, ranking last in the NFL in yards per game (288.4) and 29th in points per game (17.9).

That brings us to Johnson, who has orchestrated a top 5 offense in football over the last three seasons in Detroit. Johnson, 38, might be the most innovative offensive play-caller in the game and deserves credit for getting the best out of quarterback Jared Goff. The Bears need Williams to be a hit, and Johnson would certainly help make that a reality.

Johnson has been patient as teams have lined up for his services. He previously explained why he turned down offers in favor of remaining in Detroit.

“Something that really resonates with me is – OK, eight openings this past year,” Johnson said in May, via USA Today. “What would you set the over-under in three years for how many still have jobs? I would put the over/under at four and a half. I would say there’s a good chance that five of them are out of jobs in three years.

“When I look at it from that perspective, if I get the opportunity to go down that road, it’s about how do I get to that second contract? How do I set myself up that the stars need to align?”