NFL insider says Bears 'best bet' to land Ben Johnson

The rumors connecting Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to the Chicago Bears' head coaching vacancy continue to get warmer as the regular season nears an end for Chicago.

Johnson, who has been an overwhelming favorite for the Chicago job from oddsmakers, fans, and NFL media pundits alike, has been a hot candidate in coaching circles for quite some time now, and a new report on Tuesday brings the two sides even closer together.

Making an appearance on "Good Morning Football" on Tuesday morning, NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero was asked about the latest on Johnson, who appears to be be closer than ever to his first head coaching job. With all signs continuing to point him towards the Bears, Pelissero said the current best bet for Johnson is to be the next head coach in Chicago.

"My understanding is Ben Johnson is in a much better place in terms of thinking about what he wants in a head coaching opportunity," Pelissero said. "It doesn't have to be the perfect job, but he does want a place where he's got alignment and the opportunity to build something with sustainable success, like they have in Detroit. The job that comes up more than any other is within the division, it is with the Chicago Bears. I am told Ben Johnson is intrigued by that job and when it comes his time to interview, he is going to listen."

Citing the arrival of quarterback Caleb Williams, as well as the big market of Chicago, along with the team's upcoming cap space and draft capital, there is plenty for Johnson to work with and turnaround the franchise. After a disappointing 2024 season, there's more ignited hope of a coaching arrival that could make an immediate impact.

As Pelissero stated on Tuesday, "Right now if you're asking me where does Ben Johnson end up if he takes a job, right now I'd say your best bet is Chicago." That should come as reassuring news to those pounding the table for Johnson, hoping that the two sides can be a match for success for the foreseeable future.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: NFL insider says Bears are 'best bet' to land Ben Johnson