We Finally Learned Why Ben Johnson Is Eyeing The Bears Job

Two different NFL insiders hit Chicago Bears fans with a shock last week when they revealed Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has eyes for the head coaching job here. When Matt Eberflus wasn’t fired in January, Johnson elected to stay in Detroit rather than take another offer elsewhere. Belief is strong that if the Bears job comes open this time around, the hot coordinator will jump at it. What many are questioning is why. Given how unstable the Bears have been for years, it seems odd Johnson would have such a strong interest in coming here.

There has to be an explanation.

Now, we may have one. Bill Zimmerman of Windy City Gridiron uncovered it. Quarterback Caleb Williams has deep ties to the QB Collective organization, which has helped him develop since graduating high school. Its founder is Richmond Flowers, a prominent sports agent. Among his most notable clients? Ben Johnson.

Ben Johnson has likely been tipped off about Williams.

Flowers has watched the Bears quarterback grow up for years. He has a great idea of what Williams can become. All he needs is the right man to guide his path. Johnson has coordinated a top five offense with Detroit for three years in a row. He’s done it with Jared Goff at quarterback. Williams is more talented than Goff. No doubt Johnson can imagine limitless possibilities if he got his hands on the Bears’ #1 overall pick. Getting intel from Flowers only strengthens that decision.

The question is whether he will get the opportunity. Chicago hasn’t made any plans to change head coach. Eberflus will remain in place for the rest of the season. His fate rests on how the remaining nine games go. If the Bears stumble down the stretch, there is a strong possibility they seek a replacement who can help Williams. Flowers is perfectly positioned to bring them and Ben Johnson together.