Chicago Bears: Adam Schefter changes narrative on Ben Johnson’s plan

ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter suggests that the Bears’ coaching search has been “all over the map,” but the narrative about one of Chicago’s top candidates might prove to be false.

In recent days, there has been a belief that Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, thought to be the prize of this year’s hiring cycle, is close to a deal with the Las Vegas Raiders. However, Schefter suggests that there is still hope for the Bears … and that a somewhat surprising team might be emerging.

“There’s a lot of Ben Johnson to the Raiders talk,” Schefter said, during a recent appearance on the Pardon My Take Podcast. “Like, a lot of talk. And, that could happen, it could.

“I don’t think the Jaguars should be dismissed. And I don’t think the Chicago Bears should be dismissed. I really believe that all of them have something of an equal opportunity. I don’t believe there’s one ahead of the other.”

Johnson has interviewed for several coaching jobs over the past two offseasons but could be primed to move on from the Lions in the coming weeks.

The opportunity to coach Caleb Williams and develop him in an offense that already boasts playmakers such as wide receivers D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and Keenan Allen must be alluring. But, so too the chance to coach Trevor Lawrence in Jacksonville, with a far more navigable path to the postseason from the AFC South.

Schefter suggests that since Johnson is so coveted, the NFL insider does not believe there is a favorite to land him, and that the best destination may reveal itself to the Lions defensive coordinator as this search unfolds.

“I think when you’re going through one of these job searches,” Schefter says. “It becomes obvious and apparent to you who wants you most. It isn’t just money. Just think back to people who have wanted you, and how that became evident to you.”

“I think Ben Johnson is going to be in one of these situations where I believe he’s going to be open to any one of these situations, and the landing spot will make itself apparent and evident to him over time, in the conversations that either he or his agent have, with that particular team. There are drawbacks and questions with each one of those openings. He’s going to have to get significant answers before he proceeds forward. There isn’t going to be a perfect spot, but there will be a good spot in the end, and it’s going to be up to him to pick the best spot for him of the spots that are after him.”