Ben Johnson is leaving Detroit, but staying in the NFC North.
The Lions offensive coordinator is finalizing a deal to become head coach of the Bears, per multiple reports.
Johnson leaves the Lions after coordinating a top-five offense each of the past three seasons. Detroit finished first in the NFL in scoring and second in yards this season and set a franchise records in several offensive categories.
The 38-year-old Johnson, who first joined the Lions as an offensive quality control coach under Matt Patricia in 2019, was promoted by Dan Campbell to offensive coordinator and play-caller in 2022.
He takes over a Bears team that fired Matt Eberflus midway through his third straight losing season. Chicago lost 10 of its final 11 games and finished last in the NFL in total offense, but has a potential franchise quarterback in former first overall pick Caleb Williams.
Johnson spoke highly of Williams before the Lions' Week 16 win over the Bears in which the rookie threw for 334 yards and two touchdowns.
"There’s no question that this guy is talented," Johnson said. "I remember standing on the sideline last game and you can hear the ball whistle by you. He’s got quite a fastball and has some creativity to him, can extend plays, and is accurate down the field as well. He’s been impressive from afar.”