The Chicago Bears began the offseason facing not insignificant circumstances regarding their coaching staff under Ben Johnson.
Johnson is firmly in place after guiding the Bears to their best season in years in his first campaign and helping second-year quarterback Caleb Williams take noteworthy steps forward in meaningful areas.
For now, Johnson will continue to receive valuable support for all that falls within his purview.
Ben Johnson, Bears Get Good News Amid Offseason Planning
Bears Maintaining Plenty of Consistency So Far
Johnson and the Bears faced the daunting prospects of losing multiple assistants from his staff, and running backs coach Eric Bieniemy vacating his post to return to his role as offensive coordinator of the Kansas City Chiefs was the first domino to fall.
After a quiet start to the process, Bears offensive coordinator Declan Doyle began drawing attention, too.
On Monday, Doyle took an encouraging step for the Bears.
“Bears OC Declan Doyle has withdrawn his name from consideration for the Eagles’ offensive coordinator vacancy, per sources,” The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reported in a post on X on January 26. “Doyle opts to remain in Chicago, working with Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams.”
Doyle has yet to call plays in his career. However, in addition to Johnson, he has worked under Sean Payton with the Denver Broncos and New Orleans Saints and could draw attention again.
“Was told Declan Doyle’s interview with Philly was highly impressive,” ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported on X on January 26. “He’s on track for HC interviews next cycle, so staying put makes sense in that regard. Wouldn’t surprise if Eagles prioritize playcalling experience at this stage. @DMRussini 1st on Doyle staying in CHI.”
Doyle’s opportunity could still come this offseason.
The Chicago Tribune’s Brad Biggs reported in a post on X on January 26 that “The #Ravens have put in a slip to talk to #Bears offensive coordinator Declan Doyle.”
Rest of Bears’ Coaching Staff Remains in Place For Now
In addition to Doyle, the Bears got more good news when reports emerged that the Washington Commanders had agreed to hire Minnesota Vikings defensive passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach Daronte Jones to be their next defensive coordinator.
Bears secondary coach and defensive passing game coordinator Al Harris was under consideration for that position and even interviewed with the Commanders last week.
Harris was also under consideration in Green Bay.
However, the Packers hired former Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon for their vacancy. That would seem to leave the Pittsburgh Steelers and Mike McCarthy as the biggest threat to boast one of the Bears’ not-so-secret weapons from this past season.
Moreover, Bears wide receivers coach and assistant head coach Antwaan Randle El seemed to indicate he expects to be in Chicago next season, too.
It could take landing a role as a play-caller or head coach to pry him loose.
The Bears are just one season into the Johnson-Williams pairing. Maintaining as much consistency as possible, particularly in areas that proved to be so key during the season, could prove paramount to success for the Bears next season.