“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” That’s how the Chicago Bears seem to feel as they welcome Ben Johnson to Halas Hall. The same Johnson who transformed the Lions‘ offense as its former coordinator. But not everyone’s convinced this move guarantees a brighter tomorrow. Chicago reporters are already dissecting the hire with a mix of hope and skepticism. Especially when it comes to Johnson’s adaptability to the intense Bears media market.

Johnson is set to become the Bears’ 19th head coach. And he leaves behind a high-powered Lions offense that averaged 33.2 points per game. But, during a CHSN broadcast, Joshua Perry pointed out the deeper issues within the Bears’ structure. Perry asked, “I think we’re all kind of in the back of our mind asking what changes outside of the football part? Because there is the coaching decision… There’s also this cloud organizationally of what’s gonna be different about the Bears now.” Co-panelist David Haugh echoed similar sentiments and expressed concerns about Johnson’s readiness for the spotlight. “This is the ordinary market. This is a Bears market in Chicago. With the amount of attention, everything that he says just magnified and multiplied,” Haugh said. And he continued…

“I think that’s the part of the job you wonder if he’s equipped for. 38 years old, the first time he gets into a situation that is a little dicey. How will he handle that? His crisis management skills. And I think that over all, his composure will be tested,” Haugh added. Well, the hire comes after a grueling search where the Bears interviewed at least 17 candidates. Johnson’s offensive creativity has been his hallmark. But questions linger about his readiness to handle the organizational turbulence in Chicago.

The Bears finished 5-12. And they are gambling on Johnson’s offensive pedigree to reverse their fortunes. But his lack of head coaching experience raises valid doubts. This isn’t just about X’s and O’s—it’s about leadership under pressure. How will he handle the first stormy press conference or a losing streak? On an optimistic note, Haugh remarked, “This is a guy that gets you excited if you’re a Bears fan.” However, Johnson’s success will ultimately hinge on Caleb Williams.

Williams broke the NFL rookie record for most pass attempts without an interception (212). But he has struggled behind a porous offensive line. Johnson acknowledged Williams’ talent in December. He called him “impressive from afar” and praised his creativity. And Johnson’s track record with Jared Goff gives hope. Goff achieved career highs in touchdowns (37) and passer rating (111.8) under Johnson. The opportunity to rebuild is there. But so is the pressure to deliver quickly.

That’s where Johnson’s plans for his staff come into play. Reports suggest he’s eyeing experienced names like Dennis Allen for defensive coordinator and a fomer colleague, among other coaching talents. Assembling a seasoned staff could provide the support Johnson needs to thrive in a tough environment.

How would Johnson’s bet on Dennis Allen and a former colleague pan out?

Johnson wasted no time targeting top-tier coaching talent. Reports indicate Johnson is pursuing the former Saints HC Allen. Allen’s defensive expertise is well known. He had built units ranked consistently in the Top-10 for scoring and total defense during his tenure with the Saints. His head coaching stint was less successful. But Allen’s got two decades of NFL experience. And that can be a critical asset for Johnson, a first-time HC.

Chicago radio host Gabe Ramirez shared his thoughts on Ben Johnson’s early days with the Bears on CHSN. “I know the fact that he’s talking to a guy like Dennis Allen, the defensive coordinator, who was a head coach, understands how to run his organization,” Ramirez said. But Allen isn’t the only coach Johnson is eyeing. He has intentions to onboard a former colleague.

Darren Rizzi (another former Saints coach) is a leading candidate for special teams coordinator. Rizzi and Johnson worked together back when Ben was the assistant quarterback and wide receivers coach at Miami. That would perhaps make it a bit easier for the two to gel if the deal is struck. The recruitment push highlights Johnson’s commitment to assembling a high-caliber staff for his debut season. This signals a modern approach to NFL coaching combined with Johnson’s offensive acumen.

Johnson’s hiring has sparked optimism in a city eager for change. But questions remain about his readiness to lead. Fans would hope this marks the beginning of a successful era for the franchise. But Johnson’s ability to handle pressure will be tested. His ability to rebuild the offensive line and unlock Caleb Williams’ potential will determine whether this gamble pays off—or becomes another chapter in the Bears’ cycle of disappointment.