The Chicago Bears had a plethora of offensive weapons last season. However, Matt Eberflus may not have been the best coach to elevate their play on that side of the field. Also, the offensive line's struggles didn't do much to help their case, with Caleb Williams constantly running for his life and failing to establish himself in the pocket.
Now, things might be different with Ben Johnson around. The former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator was the most sought-after assistant coach in this year's hiring cycle, and plenty of that had to do with his creativity.
Ben Johnson Hints at Having Special Plays For The Detroit Lions
That's why, in a recent appearance on FOX Sports' "First Things First," the first-year head coach teased about having some aces up his sleeve:
"They can trademark that play and it's all good; they can have that one," Johnson said when asked about the Philadelphia Eagles' Tush Push. "There's a couple of plays that I feel strongly about that I'd like to trademark for us, so it's fine."
When asked about his Week 2 date with Dan Campbell and the Lions and whether he had something special saved up for them, Johnson didn't want to tip his hand:
"Maybe," Johnson responded. "But, the play that I loved last year was the laterals that we were doing. We did it four, five teams, and there were all big plays."
Bears HC Ben Johnson when asked if he has any special plays hidden for his matchups against the Detroit Lions this season:
— Bearsszn (@bearssznn) August 25, 2025
“Maybe…” 👀
🎥: @FTFonFS1 pic.twitter.com/ephaUqCnxF
Johnson made a name for himself with his creative scheming and play design. He turned down head coaching opportunities after the 2023 season because he felt like he still had unfinished business with the Lions.
Getting him to coach and develop an uber-talented group of playmakers like the ones the Bears have was a massive win for Ryan Poles, and while we've seen former top assistant coaches struggle as head coaches, he will have more than enough resources to work with.
The Bears went to great lengths to bolster their offensive line, and a receiver corps of D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and Luther Burden III could spell trouble for everybody else in the league.
He already revealed that Moore will be involved in the running game in a role similar to what Deebo Samuel had with the San Francisco 49ers, which could translate to a career year.
Whatever the case, one thing's for sure: there will be plenty of trickery and deception in the Windy City in 2025.