MAJOR-UPDATE: Former UNC Quarterback, Carolina Native Hired As Chicago Bears Head Coach

Ben Johnson, a former Tar Heels quarterback and Carolina native, has been named the new head coach of the Chicago Bears. The announcement came on January 21, 2025, following his successful stint as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, where he helped build one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses over the past three seasons. Johnson’s impressive coaching resume quickly made him a top candidate for several head coaching positions.

At just 38 years old, Johnson is now the second-youngest head coach in the NFL, behind only Seattle Seahawks’ Mike Macdonald. Before making his mark in the NFL, Johnson grew up in western North Carolina, attending A.C. Reynolds High School in Asheville, where he led his team to a state championship in his junior year. He later joined the University of North Carolina football team as a walk-on, although he didn’t see any game action as a quarterback during his time there.

Johnson’s decision to take on the head coach role with the Bears comes after he declined multiple head coaching opportunities in previous offseasons. While the Bears struggled with a less-than-impressive record in 2024, they’re hopeful that the addition of Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 draft, will turn the franchise’s fortunes around. Though Williams had some rookie struggles, he showcased undeniable potential, and Johnson’s past success in developing quarterbacks like Jared Goff gives hope that he can elevate Williams to new heights.

In addition to Williams, Chicago boasts a talented roster, including former Panthers star D.J. Moore, wide receiver Rome Odunze, and running back D’Andre Swift. On the defensive side, the Bears have one of the league’s top cornerback duos in Jaylon Johnson and Tyrique Stevenson. With the 10th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and the fourth-most cap space in the league, Johnson has the resources needed to improve the team further.

Despite being a first-time head coach, Johnson is already showing his commitment to building a winning culture in Chicago. In a video posted to the Bears’ social media, he emphasized his focus on creating high standards, accountability, and integrity. Johnson’s goal is clear: to win now and turn around a franchise that has not made the playoffs since 2020 and has not won a playoff game since 2011. With his experience coaching in the NFL since 2012, Johnson is eager to help the Bears break their cycle of coaching changes and build a successful, long-term team.