"Chicago Bears Pull Off NFL Coaching Coup: Ben Johnson, Eric Bieniemy, and Dennis Allen Lead Historic Overhaul
"With a star-studded coaching staff and the No. 1 draft pick, the Bears are poised for a franchise-altering transformation in 2025."
“Chicago Bears Pull Off NFL Coaching Coup: Ben Johnson, Eric Bieniemy, and Dennis Allen Lead Historic Overhaul
The Chicago Bears have emerged as the biggest winners of the 2025 NFL coaching cycle after making several bold moves to overhaul their coaching staff. Following a disappointing 2024 season, the Bears’ front office, led by general manager Ryan Poles, made decisive hires aimed at revitalizing the team’s offense and defense. With Ben Johnson as their new head coach and a series of key hires—including Eric Bieniemy, Dennis Allen, and Declan Doyle—the Bears appear to be positioning themselves for a dramatic turnaround.
Ben Johnson: The Right Coach for the Job
The Bears made waves by hiring Ben Johnson, the former offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions, as their new head coach. Johnson, widely regarded as one of the brightest offensive minds in the NFL, was a hot commodity in the coaching market. His work with the Lions helped turn them into one of the league’s most efficient and explosive offenses, playing a crucial role in their deep playoff run.
Johnson’s ability to develop quarterbacks, craft creative play designs, and adapt to personnel strengths made him an ideal candidate for a Bears team that struggled offensively last season. With the potential selection of a new quarterback in the upcoming NFL Draft—possibly USC’s Caleb Williams—Johnson’s influence could be pivotal in shaping the future of Chicago’s offense.
“Ben Johnson’s ability to tailor an offense to his personnel is what makes him special,” an NFC executive told The Athletic. “The Bears need a fresh approach, and he’s exactly the kind of coach who can bring that.”
Eric Bieniemy Joins as Running Backs Coach
In a surprising but strategic move, the Bears brought in Eric Bieniemy as their running backs coach. Bieniemy, best known for his tenure as offensive coordinator with the Kansas City Chiefs, played a major role in the development of Patrick Mahomes and was part of two Super Bowl-winning teams. Last season, he was the offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders, but after parting ways with Washington, he opted to take a step back to a position coach role in Chicago.
Despite the lower title, Bieniemy’s experience will be invaluable for the Bears, particularly in revitalizing a run game that struggled in 2024. His ability to develop young talent and instill a winning culture makes him a strong addition to the coaching staff.
Dennis Allen Takes Over the Defense
The Bears also made a crucial hire on the defensive side, bringing in Dennis Allen as their new defensive coordinator. Allen, the former head coach of the New Orleans Saints, has long been known for his defensive acumen, having built strong units throughout his career. His aggressive approach and ability to scheme against top offenses make him an ideal fit for a Bears defense that showed flashes of dominance last year but lacked consistency.
Allen’s defensive philosophy emphasizes pressuring the quarterback, stopping the run, and forcing turnovers—hallmarks of past successful Bears teams. His arrival should help maximize the talent of players like Montez Sweat, T.J. Edwards, and Jaylon Johnson, turning the Bears’ defense into a formidable force in the NFC.
Declan Doyle Named Offensive Coordinator
Another critical addition to the coaching staff was Declan Doyle, who will serve as the Bears’ new offensive coordinator. Doyle, a rising star in the coaching ranks, was previously the tight ends coach for the Saints. His fresh perspective and ability to collaborate with Johnson will be key in transforming the Bears’ offense.
Why the Bears Are the Biggest Winners of the 2025 Coaching Cycle
The Bears’ ability to land top coaching talent despite competition from multiple teams speaks volumes about their appeal and vision. The combination of Ben Johnson, Eric Bieniemy, Dennis Allen, and Declan Doyle creates one of the most well-rounded coaching staffs in the league.
Additionally, the Bears have the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, giving them a chance to pair their new coaching staff with a franchise quarterback. The potential selection of Caleb Williams could mark the beginning of a new era in Chicago football.
With a revamped coaching staff, a likely new quarterback, and a defense that already has key pieces in place, the Bears are poised to make a leap in 2025. While it will take time to see the full impact of these hires, one thing is clear—the Chicago Bears have won the 2025 NFL coaching cycle, and the future in the Windy City looks brighter than ever.