Report: Lions OC Ben Johnson deal ‘being finalized’ by Bears as next head coach
On September 24, 2023, in Detroit, Michigan, Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, watches a game versus the Atlanta Falcons at Ford Field. (Image courtesy of Getty Images/Mike Mulholland)
It looks like Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the FOX 2-Lions, is leaving Detroit but remaining in the division. According to an ESPN story, the Chicago Bears are anticipated to be finalizing a deal for him.
According to NFL source Adam Shefter, the Bears are completing an agreement to appoint 38-year-old Johnson as their next head coach. Prior to last season, when he turned down offers from other teams to stay for “unfinished business” this year, Johnson was a highly sought-after coaching possibility.
In a follow-up story, Shefter said that Johnson is putting together a “star-studded coaching staff” as his defensive coordinator, which includes former New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen.
In a press conference on Monday, Lions coach Dan Campbell stated that he expected to lose defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and Johnson to head coaching positions.
“I will be forever be grateful for those guys and our team,” he stated. “Is there a loss? Of course. However, we proceed, guy. I’ll locate the next best guys for us as this train continues. If that shift occurs, we want it to go smoothly.
“That’s my job is to replenish and find the next man up, and the guy who’s who’s going to give us the best chance to have success on both sides of the ball.”
According to Campbell, the organization will take its time filling the available roles in order to locate the best applicant who aligns with the franchise’s values and ethos.
“You know, I’m not in a mad dash – no matter what happens,” replied the man. “”I want to act in a way that is acceptable to our team. (Someone who) can command respect, get everyone moving in the same direction, and stand in front of that room.”
As additional details become available, stay tuned to FOX 2.
Dan Campbell spoke to the media Monday to discuss the defeat to Washington and his feelings about perhaps losing his coordinators. Dan Miller reports from Allen Park.