Ben Johnson’s first season as head coach of the Chicago Bears didn’t just revive a franchise-it helped reshape its identity.
From the start, Johnson built a foundation on accountability and belief, and the players responded by bringing a level of physicality and focus that hadn’t been seen in Chicago for years. The result?
An 11-win season, an NFC North title, and a playoff victory over the rival Packers. The Bears’ run ended in heartbreak-an overtime loss to the Rams in the Divisional Round-but there’s no mistaking it: this season was a statement.
And now, the rest of the league is taking notice.
Bears’ Staff Drawing League-Wide Attention
When a team turns the corner the way Chicago did in 2025, it’s only a matter of time before other franchises come calling for the architects behind the scenes. That’s exactly what’s happening in Chicago, where Johnson’s staff is getting raided-one opportunity at a time.
Leading the way is running backs coach Eric Bieniemy, who’s reportedly agreed to terms with the Kansas City Chiefs to become their new offensive coordinator. It’s a homecoming of sorts for Bieniemy, but it’s also a reflection of the work he did in Chicago.
Under his guidance, the Bears’ backfield-led by D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai-became one of the most productive in the league, finishing as the NFL’s No. 3 rushing attack. That kind of ground game doesn’t just happen.
It’s built on detail, discipline, and smart coaching-three things Bieniemy brought in spades.
And he might just be the first domino to fall.
Defensive pass game coordinator and secondary coach Al Harris is already drawing interest elsewhere. He’s interviewed with the Packers for their defensive coordinator role and has another interview lined up with the Commanders for the same position. Harris helped shape a Bears secondary that played with confidence and aggression all season long-traits that don’t go unnoticed in today’s pass-heavy NFL.
On the offensive side, coordinator Declan Doyle is also in demand. The Philadelphia Eagles have requested to interview him for their offensive coordinator opening.
Doyle played a key role in game-planning each week, working closely with Johnson to tailor the offense to each opponent. His preparation and ability to adjust in-game were major factors in the Bears’ offensive growth throughout the year.
Even the front office is getting attention. Assistant general manager Ian Cunningham is on the radar for a general manager role, with the Atlanta Falcons requesting to interview him. Cunningham has been instrumental in building out the roster alongside GM Ryan Poles, and his eye for talent has clearly caught the attention of teams looking to reset their own foundations.
Johnson's Vision-and His Staff-Are the Real Deal
For Johnson, the buzz around his staff isn’t a surprise-it’s a confirmation of what he’s believed all along.
“I told the players this just a week or two ago: it’s rare that in year one, you feel like you’ve got a five-star staff,” Johnson said. “But that’s what I believe.”
He’s not just talking them up-he’s seen it firsthand. From the time commitment to the sacrifice, from the energy to the experience, Johnson knows this group was a major part of why the Bears were able to turn things around so quickly. And he’s not standing in their way.
“I want these guys to continue to ascend,” he said. “Anything I can do to help them out, I’m more than willing.”
That kind of leadership-empowering coaches to grow, even if it means losing them-is part of what’s made Johnson such a strong fit in Chicago. He’s built a culture that people want to be part of. And when you have that, success tends to follow.
Of course, turnover is part of the deal in the NFL. When you win, other teams want a piece of the formula.
But Johnson isn’t worried. He’s focused on building something sustainable-something that can withstand the inevitable losses that come with success.
What’s clear is this: the Bears didn’t just win games in 2025-they built something bigger. And the rest of the league is watching.