LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) – During their time together in Detroit, then-Lions guard Jonah Jackson recognized that then-offensive coordinator Ben Johnson had head coaching qualities in him.
Jackson will now once again play for a Johnson-coached team after he was traded from the Rams to the Bears. The 28-year-old Jackson was acquired to be a key cog in Johnson’s offensive line and will step in at right guard. The two were in Detroit together from 2020-'23.
“You’ve seen the offenses he’s had, the 40-plus-point capabilities he brings to the table,” Jackson said. “He’s a winner. That’s what he wants to do.
“He’ll be a great head coach here.”
The Bears agreed to trade a sixth-round pick to the Rams last week to acquire Jackson. The deal came together one day before the Bears reached a trade agreement to acquire All-Pro guard Joe Thuney from the Chiefs as Chicago overhauled its offensive line.
Jackson, who has two years left on his contract, left the Lions to join the Rams before the 2024 season. He struggled in his lone year in Los Angeles. He was slowed by a shoulder injury and shifted from guard to center while making only four starts. The Rams ultimately moved Jackson to the bench.
Jackson is now ready to move forward, and he has a believer in Johnson.
"The guy is a Pro Bowl-caliber guard, so that's what we're going to get out of him,” Johnson said.
Jackson’s familiarity with Johnson’s work played a critical part in the Bears’ decision to acquire him. For Jackson, reuniting with Johnson added comfort in his move from Los Angeles to Chicago.
“He’s like a wizard,” Jackson said. “You can’t time up his play calls. You don't what he’s going to call next. It could be third-and-10 and we’re running down the ‘A’ gap and going for a touch. So, he’s a special, special person.”
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.