Lifestyle

Chicago Bears’ Ben Johnson Named AP Coach of the Year Finalist

Published

2 months ago

22 January, 2026

Editorial

The Chicago Bears’ head coach, Ben Johnson, has been recognized as a finalist for the AP Coach of the Year award, following an impressive turnaround season for the team. The announcement was made by the National Football League (NFL) on January 22, 2026. Johnson joins fellow finalists Liam Coen of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Mike Macdonald of the Seattle Seahawks, Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers, and Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots. The winner will be revealed during the NFL Honors ceremony on February 5, 2026, at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco.

Under Johnson’s leadership, the Bears transformed from one of the league’s most struggling teams to a formidable competitor. This was particularly notable in his first season as head coach. Johnson focused on reshaping the team culture, which helped elevate the Bears’ performance significantly. Chicago’s revival included some unforgettable moments, such as seven fourth-quarter comebacks, with one occurring in the playoffs.

While leading the Bears to success, Johnson played a crucial role in the development of quarterback Caleb Williams. His guidance helped turn Chicago’s offense into one of the best in the NFL. The Bears achieved several notable milestones this season, including their first playoff appearance since 2020, capturing the NFC North title for the first time since 2018, and securing their first playoff victory in 15 years.

Johnson’s accomplishment echoes the achievement of Matt Nagy, the last Bears head coach to win the Coach of the Year award in 2018. Coen, also a first-year coach, shares the honor of being a finalist alongside Vrabel, who is in his inaugural season with the Patriots.

Johnson’s recognition as a finalist reflects not only his coaching prowess but also the resilience and determination of the Chicago Bears, marking a significant chapter in the team’s history. As the NFL Honors ceremony approaches, anticipation builds around who will be celebrated as the league’s top coach this season.