Ben Johnson is poised to take the helm as the head coach for the Chicago Bears, and he is actively forming his coaching staff. Notably, he is in talks to recruit Dennis Allen, the former head coach of the New Orleans Saints, as his defensive coordinator. Additionally, Johnson aims to bring Darren Rizzi, who previously served as the interim head coach for the Saints, on board as the special teams coordinator. Johnson has a history with Rizzi from their time together on the Miami Dolphins staff, further enhancing their collaborative potential.
Allen boasts a strong defensive background, having previously led the Saints to two top-10 finishes in yards allowed during his tenure as defensive coordinator. His experience as a play caller spans nearly a decade, contributing to a defensive unit that excelled under his direction. Meanwhile, Rizzi's experience as a special teams coordinator adds valuable depth to Johnson's plans. Together, these coaching moves signal a strategic shift for the Bears as they seek to revitalize their performance.