Tier 3
4. Mike McCarthy
I shocked myself by putting Mike McCarthy this high on the list. Just like Pete Carroll, I would not hate the idea of either being the next head coach of the Chicago Bears. However, I fear neither will win any Super Bowls despite both having won one in their career. McCarthy gets the nod over Pete Carroll for me since he is an offensive-minded coach. He helped guide the Cowboys to a 7-win season despite having Cooper Rush under center for most of the year. Dak Prescott has looked great when healthy and McCarthy helped develop Aaron Rodgers. Who else plays like Rodgers? Caleb Williams.
If I am being honest with myself, McCarthy could be third on my list and Carroll fifth, but something about older coaches puts a bad taste in my mouth. I want the genius play-caller type. Note that McCarthy might be staying in Dallas, but I left him on the list anyway. The Cowboys blocked the Bears' attempt to interview him but also haven't given McCarthy an extension and his contract expires next week.
3. Todd Monken
There seem to be those who love the idea of Todd Monken and those who don't. The ones who don't usually start off by saying Monken is successful because Lamar Jackson is an amazing quarterback. Jackson is amazing, but that shouldn't take away from Monken's success as a playcaller. Lamar Jackson has had his two best passing seasons under Monken and broke 4,000 passing yards for the first time in his career this year. His TD:INT ratio is off the charts this year and was solid last year too. He was MVP last year and is in the running for it again this year too.
Monken also had success in Tampa Bay as an offensive coordinator. The Bucs were top nine in total yards in two of the three years he was calling the plays. They were 12th in scoring in his last season before the Bucs fired Dirk Koetter and cleaned house. He's a bit older but I like what I've seen from him.
Tier 2
2. Mike Vrabel
I could be falling into the hype here with Mike Vrabel. His coaching success isn't anywhere near Mike McCarthy or Pete Carroll, yet I have him higher on the list. He is also defensive-minded which is crazy that I view him this high. There is just something about his presence and ability to get the most out of lesser talent. The fear here is who he brings with him. There are certain offensive connections I want nothing to do with, and if any of them are going to be his offensive coordinator, no thank you!
That said, I think he instantly changes the locker room culture and holds everyone accountable. He seems like a less crazy version of Dan Campbell with the Lions, and well, if he hits on the offensive side of the ball, then watch out. That said, I do hope he ends up in New England so the Patriots don't hire my top candidate.
Note: Liam Coen and Bobby Slowik would be in this tier if the Bears extend interview requests.
Tier 1
1. Ben Johnson
This one seems obvious, and I'm not going to go into great detail. The Chicago Bears must find a way to hire Ben Johnson. He is an elite play-caller and has built the Lions' offense into his own vision. The only fear here is whether he can handle running a complete team while also remaining detailed in his play calls and play designs. I'm not overly concerned. Hire this man now!