Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is garnering attention for a potential NFL honor as the team holds a 3-1 record. Currently in second place in the NFC North, the Bears trail only the Minnesota Vikings, who have also exceeded expectations this season.
Last season, the Bears finished atop the NFC North and advanced to the playoffs, although they were eliminated by the Los Angeles Rams. Johnson’s leadership has continued to show that their success was not just a one-time occurrence but may signal ongoing improvement.
Ben Johnson ranks No. 2 in ESPN’s early Coach of the Year rankings
In ESPN’s recent quarter-season awards feature, Bill Barnwell ranked Johnson as the second-best candidate for the Coach of the Year honor, trailing Klint Kubiak of the Las Vegas Raiders. This recognition comes despite the absence of the Bears’ franchise quarterback, Caleb Williams, due to injury.
According to Barnwell, Johnson has effectively led the Bears to victories with three different quarterbacks in the opening month of the season. The team has leaned heavily on their running game, boasting the fourth-highest rushing rate in the league, with a designed rush rate of 47.6%. Additionally, they rank ninth in expected points added per play for their rushing attempts.
Barnwell also praised Johnson’s impact, highlighting the Bears’ dominant performance against the Carolina Panthers in Week 1, which showcased the potential of their offense with a top-tier quarterback. The only setback thus far has been a loss to the Vikings.
As the Bears continue their season, Johnson’s candidacy for the Coach of the Year award remains a topic of discussion among analysts and fans alike.
