The Chicago Bears made a significant move by hiring former Lions Offensive Coordinator Ben Johnson as their new head coach. The Bears are optimistic that he is the right person to lead the team back to sustained success, something that fans have been longing for for a long time.
Ben Johnson was one of the most sought-after head coaching candidates in the football market. His innovative play designs and high-scoring offense has captured the attention of fans everywhere. It's likely that this is what attracted the Chicago Bears. Given Johnson's high reputation, he is well-positioned to assemble an excellent coaching staff as well.
With Ben Johnson already focused on hiring a defensive coordinator, it raises the question of how he will fill the rest of his coaching staff. One option he might consider is bringing along a few assistants from the Lions.
A few coaches he could target to bring with him are...
Tanner Engstrand , Lions Passing Game Coordinator
Tanner has received high praise throughout the league and has a strong connection with Ben Johnson. Over the past few seasons, he has held various roles with the Lions, most notably serving as the tight ends coach and passing game coordinator. His experience in these positions could bolster his candidacy for the offensive coordinator role with the Chicago Bears. While he would be a good fit in Chicago, there is a strong possibility that he may remain with the Lions as their next offensive coordinator.
Hank Fraley , Lions Offensive Line Coach
Fraley is a very intriguing coach in the NFL. Fraley has done a fantastic job with the Lions offensive line and he is getting attention around the league for his good work. He recently interviewed with the Seattle Seahawks for their offensive coordinator opening. It's very possible he could still have his eyes set on Seattle, but with Ben Johnson needing an offensive coordinator and now the Lions needing a play-caller as well, he has some options.
Mark Brunell, Lions Quarterback Coach
Mark had a very solid career in the NFL and is already making an impact as a coach in the NFL as well. Brunell and Johnson have worked closely together since 2021 when Brunell was brought in to be the quarterback coach for the Lions. It has been rumored that Johnson would want to bring Brunell with him if he took a job. This hire would be great for Caleb Williams. As a former quarterback himself having him on the coaching staff would be a big win for the Bears. If Johnson were to bring Brunell over to Chicago, it would likely be as either a quarterback coach or even potentially as an offensive coordinator. Similarly to Tanner, Brunell could also possibly see a promotion within the Lions organization.
No doubt Johnson has plans to create a staff that can help develop players at every level. Whether he brings coaches with him or not is to be determined but if you are looking for development, not many teams have done as well as the Lions in recent years.