The offseason is well underway for the Chicago Bears, and the coaching carousel has made it's way to Chicago yet again.
The departure of Declan Doyle is just the most recent name to be snatched from the Bears' offense, after Eric Bieniemy returned to Kansas City to serve as their offensive coordinator. Under Ben Johnson's offense, finding a new OC is likely to come from an unlikely place, and it's even more likely to be a seldom-known coach.
Tanner Engstrand, Former New York Jets Offensive Coordinator
Tanner Engstrand brings the most direct continuity to Johnson's offense. Most recently serving as the Jets OC, Engstrand spent years working alongside Johnson in Detroit, helping to install the structure and sequencing that defined the Lions' rise.
His value is not reinvention, it's preservation. Engstrand understands how Johnson wants concepts taught, how the playbook functions, and how the offense is built around the quarterback. This is a familiarity that can't be bought; it must be learned.
JT Barrett, Chicago Bears QB Coach
Barrett is another solid option, and he's a name that rests close to home. Barrett already works directly with the Bears quarterback room and has quickly earned respect as a communicator and teacher.
Promoting from within would signal confidence in the current developmental track while keeping terminology, drills, and expectations intact. Barrett would not be hired to overhaul the offense, and harmony with Johnson could be found.
Mark Brunell, Detroit Lions QB Coach
Brunell, the current Lions QB coach, could be another option. He's quite familiar with Ben Johnson's offense, having worked together in the Lions organization. Brunell has been deeply involved in Jared Goff’s resurgence, emphasizing timing and decision-making.
Brunell understands Johnson’s system intimately but brings the credibility of a former NFL quarterback who has navigated multiple offensive eras. That combination carries weight in both the locker room and the meeting room.
None of these candidates would arrive with an ego or with a competing vision. They know what it's like to work with Ben Johnson, and it's always one light at the end of the tunnel.
Read more: Kevin Byard's All-Pro season continues with perfect accolade awarded to him
Johnson does not need someone to step in and redefine the scheme. He needs someone who can stay the course and help Caleb Williams take the next step in his already splendid career.