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Ben Johnson Hire Already Having Big Effect on Ryan Poles' Bears Job Security

HC Ben Johnson has only been with the Chicago Bears for a hot minute, and his presence is already having a positive impact on GM Ryan Poles' outlook.

By Devon Platana

Chicago Bears new head coach Ben Johnson (right) with general manager Ryan Poles pose for photos after a press conference introducing him at PNC Center.
Chicago Bears new head coach Ben Johnson (right) with general manager Ryan Poles pose for photos after a press conference introducing him at PNC Center. / David Banks-Imagn Images
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Chicago Bears fans have been singing general manager Ryan Poles' praises ever since he hired Ben Johnson as the new head coach this offseason. The 38-year-old first-year coach demonstrated plenty of potential throughout his time with the rival Detroit Lions, leaving the Bears faithful feeling optimistic that he'll have a similar impact in the Windy City.

The 2025 season isn't even close to starting, meaning it'll be a while before Johnson's on-field impact can be felt. In the meantime, his presence is already producing off-field results — including when it comes to GM Poles.

Bears Rumors: Ryan Poles to Land Major Extension Following Ben Johnson Hiring

The details of Johnson's first coaching contract were revealed by ESPN's Courtney Cronin on Monday. According to the NFL insider, the rookie HC will be making approximately $13 million annually — $7 million more than Matt Eberflus — across the next five seasons.

On top of that, it was revealed that Johnson's presence likely means Poles will be kept around the Windy City for a similar length of time.

"According to a team source with knowledge of the situation, Poles' deal runs through the 2026 season," Cronin wrote. "The expectation is he will receive an extension to align him with Johnson, who signed a five-year contract with Chicago."

Poles, 39, has been with the Bears ever since he was hired as the general manager following the 2021 season. The Canandaigua, NY native first got his start in the Kansas City Chiefs organization, ascending through the scouting rankings before being named executive director of player personnel in 2021.

Since taking over the reins, the Bears have gone 15-36 without a playoff appearance across three seasons. While the lack of postseason football has disappointed Chicago fans, the lack of results isn't entirely Poles' fault. He inherited a less-than-idea situation from the previous regime and didn't find his franchise quarterback (Caleb Williams) until last year.

Poles has done a solid job of rebuilding the Bears, especially with the work he's done on defense. It's time for the rest of the offense to catch up and there's a good chance of that happening in 2025 based on the promising coaching hires he's made this offseason.

Hopefully, Poles capitalizes on his new lease on life. He now has a talented coaching staff to go along with a promising up-and-coming roster, meaning there's zero reason for the Bears not to be in the playoff conversation next season.

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