The Bears welcomed new head coach Ben Johnson and his family to Chicago this week. Learn more about the North Carolina native, former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator and University of North Carolina football alum as he talks with ChicagoBears.com about his "welcome to the NFL" coaching moment, his favorite pregame music and more.
What comes to mind when you hear Chicago?
Da Bears.
Toughest player or coach you've ever coached against?
Coach would've been Spags (defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) in Kansas City. Player would've been Maxx Crosby in Vegas.
Players have game day rituals or superstitions. Do you have any as a coach?
No. I really don't. It's not like I eat the same thing or anything. I get in the zone by listening to music and I suppose the same songs on repeat. Right now, I'm on this Vance Joy kick. 'Like Gold' and 'Georgia.'
Favorite athlete growing up?
Joe Montana.
Favorite football memory as a coach?
Winning the NFC North in 2023.
Favorite play you've ever called?
Man, I'm a sucker for just old-school duo. Downhill double teams and drive the guys off the ball at the line of scrimmage.
Do you have a 'Welcome to the NFL' coaching moment?
When I was up at Boston College, that's where I really got learning how to be a coach. The guys are a little bit more abrasive than what I've learned to equate NFL coaching to. So going from Boston College to Miami, there was an instance where I maybe used some choice words that a veteran player didn't appreciate much, so that escalated quickly. He's threatening to meet me in the parking lot after practice. Fortunately we had a veteran coach that diffused the whole situation, but I learned a lot that one day.
Best advice you've ever received?
Be yourself.
What's a random fact no one knows about you?
I'm left-handed but throw right-handed.
Who are your kids most excited to meet in Chicago?
It was Caleb. They met him today and it was awesome. They loved every second of it.
Get an exclusive look at new Bears head coach Ben Johnson arriving in Chicago, signing his contract, touring Halas Hall for the first time, talking with the media and more.
Start, bench, cut: Chicago-style hot dog, Italian beef, deep dish pizza
Start deep dish. Bench Italian beef. Cut hot dog.
You were a state champion high school quarterback. What's the scouting report on you?
Underutilized.
What's your favorite way to disconnect from football?
I like to go for long runs. That's really my way of hitting the reset button. In the offseason, every Sunday I like to go for a five, six mile run.
What's at the top of your bucket list right now?
Win the Super Bowl.
In one sentence, who is Ben Johnson?
Ben Johnson is hardworking, selfless and poised.
