Chicago Bears fans are abuzz with hopes of Ben Johnson stepping in as their next head coach. With the Bears’ youthful and dynamic roster, it’s easy to see why fans are dreaming big. Yet, those dreams may require a reality check as other NFL teams are also eyeing Johnson, alongside the possibility that he might remain with the Detroit Lions. Should Johnson slip from their grasp, the Bears will need to pivot to other options.
One name that’s gaining traction in the rumor mill is Brian Flores. NFL insider Albert Breer points out that Flores is more than just a contender—he’s a ‘real possibility’ for the Bears’ head coaching position. This connection isn’t without its history; Ryan Poles and Flores share a past as teammates at Boston College. Given the shortage of other strong candidates, it’s not far-fetched to imagine Poles opting for a familiar ally who might reinforce a defensive approach in Chicago.
Yet, there’s an ongoing debate about whether that’s the path the Bears should take. Chicago has traditionally been a team founded on defensive prowess, and while Flores—known for his defensive chops—might fit that mold, the team has assets like Caleb Williams that scream for offensive innovation. The Bears need someone who can cultivate their offensive talent, a need that previous coach Matt Eberflus, another defensive mind, couldn’t meet.
Concerns hover over Flores’ compatibility, especially considering the turbulence he had with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who publicly criticized Flores. Tua’s performance surged post-Flores, which could be a warning sign if the Bears are eyeing him to nurture their former first-overall pick.
On the defensive side, Flores has proven his capability, turning the Vikings’ defense around from 31st to 16th overall in just one year. If he were to take the helm in Chicago, the defense would likely continue to be its cornerstone, given its current ranking as the 12th in points allowed per game (21.8). But here’s the kicker—a stout defense paired with a floundering offense might not elevate the Bears the way fans and the organization hope.
The Bears’ decision-making in recent years indicates a trend, and going with Flores would align with their historical patterns. However, if they truly want to leverage their young offensive talent and transform into a playoff contender, they might need to change course. Whether Flores will indeed steer the Bears into prosperous seas remains to be seen, but if history is any guide, it might not be the long-awaited turnaround moment the Bears faithful are hoping for.
