Most Chicago Bears fans believe Ben Johnson is and should be the heavy favorite for the head coaching job. Over the past three years, he’s turned the Detroit Lions offense into the envy of the NFL, earning a reputation as a play-calling savant. It is easy to imagine what he could do for Caleb Williams and a disjointed Bears offense high in talent but low on direction. It is the logical move on paper. However, the interview process is a necessary part of this. It seems there are some people nervous about that.
However, it’s not for the reason you think.
Most would assume it’s concern that the Bears might somehow blow their chance to make a good impression. Not according to Benjamin Allbright of KOA Colorado. From his understanding, the issue lay with Johnson. While nobody disputes his prowess as a coach, he reportedly has a reputation for not being a great interviewer. That is why he hasn’t been hired by somebody else already.
The Bears can’t let the interview alone dictate their Ben Johnson decision.
This is a mistake they’ve made several times in the past. It is a big reason they went with Trestman over Arians in 2013. While Arians was the more accomplished coach, Trestman just had a better presentation in the interview. We all know what happened after that. Arians went to substantial success in Arizona and Tampa Bay. Trestman flamed out after two years. First impressions matter, sure. Yet it is unwise to let one or two meetings between unfamiliar people dictate such an important decision.
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Track record matters. There is plenty of evidence to suggest Ben Johnson has the makings of a good head coach. He’s obviously intelligent, a creative thinker, and can motivate his players. Some guys are just better football coaches than interviewers. Johnson appears to be that kind of guy. Unless he just completely bombs the meeting, this still feels like the right guy for the job. Saturday, January 11th, is when things go down. If Johnson makes it through and gets a second interview, that will be a good sign.
