Head coach Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears have been active in this NFL free agency. The 39-year-old is coming off his first year as an NFL head coach. Johnson led the Bears to an 11-6 finish in the 2025 season. They won the NFC North title, their first since 2018. It was also their best record in seven years.
In his first postseason as head coach, Johnson and the Bears defeated their bitter rivals, the Green Bay Packers, in the Wild Card round. Unfortunately, they failed to defeat the 2021 Super Bowl Champions, the Los Angeles Rams, in the Divisional Round.
Ben Johnson looking to improve the Chicago Bears’ roster this NFL offseason
Despite bowing out of the postseason early, 2025 was still considered a successful season for Chicago.
In this NFL free agency, Johnson and the Bears are looking to upgrade their roster. Chicago has already signed key pieces such as Coby Bryant and Devin Bush. They also traded for center Garrett Bradbury and re-signed Case Keenum.
Johnson is also keeping an eye on one player on the free agency list, former Detroit Lions offensive tackle Taylor Decker. Recently, Decker shared on his official Instagram account that he is parting ways with the Lions.
Johnson worked with Decker during their time together in Detroit, where the former was part of the coaching staff from 2019 to 2025. As the Lions’ offensive coordinator in 2024, he helped Decker improve his game and earn a Pro Bowl selection.
After Decker parted ways with the Lions, reports emerged that Johnson “reached out” to the 10-year veteran. Johnson reportedly checked up on Decker as a friend, as he is going through a rough patch in his career.
It was also reported that Decker didn’t hear from Lions head coach Dan Campbell or general manager Brad Holmes after his release.
Johnson’s call was more friendly in nature. There is no indication that he attempted to recruit Decker to Chicago. However, this is not out of the question.
After all, Johnson and Decker have history together, which they could potentially rekindle in Chicago this coming season.
Chicago Bears HC Ben Johnson: Starter’s future is in doubt
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