Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is once again expected to be a top candidate for head-coaching jobs this offseason. Rumors are already linking him to the Chicago Bears, a team looking for someone to maximize the potential of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
Johnson spoke Thursday about Williams’ abilities ahead of Sunday’s matchup between the 12-2 Lions and the 4-10 Bears in Chicago.
“It’s been difficult to sit down and study every throw, but we’ve seen plenty of crossover tape throughout the year, and there’s no doubt this guy is talented,” Johnson said of the first overall pick in this year’s draft, as reported by Audacy’s Will Burchfield. “I remember standing on the sideline during our last game against the Bears and hearing the ball whistle by. He’s got a serious fastball, creativity, the ability to extend plays, and accuracy down the field. … I haven’t done a deep dive and can’t say much more than that, but he’s been impressive from afar.”
Williams has faced a tumultuous rookie season, including the in-season firings of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and head coach Matt Eberflus. After starting the year 4-2, the Bears’ campaign unraveled following their Week 7 bye. According to ESPN stats, Williams has endured a league-high 58 sacks this season. He entered Friday ranked 26th among qualified players with a 48.2 adjusted QBR and tied for 23rd with an 87.7 passer rating. Over 14 games, he has recorded 17 touchdown passes and five interceptions.
As for Johnson, his asking price during last year’s hiring cycle may have deterred some teams, leading to his return to Detroit for another season. On Thursday, NFL insider Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported that Johnson would be looking for “a team that’ll create alignment between the head coach and general manager” and “an owner willing to honestly identify and aggressively address the team’s weaknesses” to leave the Lions in January or February.
As of Friday morning, DraftKings Sportsbook had the Lions tied for the second-best odds to win Super Bowl LIX at +475.
“I think there’s a burning desire in every man to find out what he’s made of, push his limits, and see if he has what it takes,” Johnson said when asked if he aspires to be a head coach. “So, yeah, there’s a fire there. When that time will be, I don’t know, but there’s definitely a fire.”
Johnson will get an up-close look at Williams this weekend. That experience could ultimately influence the trajectories of both men’s careers.
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