Bears’ Ben Johnson already considered amongst 4th quarter kings

Ben Johnson has always been lauded for his offensive play calling abilities. He proved that making the leap up to head coach with the Chicago Bears wasn’t going to throw a wrench into his plans.

Now entering year two, the NFL world is giving Johnson his flowers. In a poll of 20 executives and scouts, the head coach was named the best play caller in the league not named Sean McVay or Kyle Shanahan. Furthermore, he earned two votes – the most any single coach received was four – for best fourth quarter coach, via Jeff Howe of the Athletic.

“Johnson ignited Caleb Williams in their first year together and validated his ascension into the spotlight as Lions offensive coordinator,” Howe wrote. “The Bears ranked ninth in scoring — their first time in the top half of the league since 2018 — because Johnson fit a talented cast of pieces into place.”

The Bears overcame seven fourth quarter deficits in their run to a NFC North crown in 2025. While quarterback Caleb Williams has gotten plenty of credit, Johnson deserves his respect too.

In 2026, the Bears will try to be more consistent and not have to rely on late game heroics. But teams around the league are well aware of what Johnson’s offense can do.

Ben Johnson revitalizes Bears offense

Chicago Bears Ben Johnson — May 8, 2026; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson addresses the media at Halas Hall before Rookie Minicamp. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

In the year prior to Johnson’s arrival, Chicago ranked dead last in total offense, averaging 284.6 yards per game. The head coach had quite the mountain to climb in terms of fixing things. And yet, the Bears finished 2025 ranked sixth in offense, averaging 369.2 YPG.

Williams got closer to his No.1 pick ceiling, setting a new franchise record with 3,942 passing yards to go alongside 20 touchdowns. Furthermore, Chicago’s rushing attack was third-best in all of football, averaging 144.5 yards per game.

If the Bears want to keep their seat at the playoff table, their offense will need to remain top flight. It’ll be a bit more difficult with the NFL well aware of Johnson’s bag.

The post Bears’ Ben Johnson already considered amongst 4th quarter kings appeared first on ChiCitySports.