In early preseason action, new Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson handled calling the offense. This doesn't come as a surprise, as it is the exact skill that earned the coach the role in the first place. However, it isn't a hot take to state there are a few coaches who are able to ascend to the next level and still have the same level of success. The leap in responsibility cannot be overlooked, and not every leader is able to delegate well at the next level.
Still, Bears fans want Johnson calling the plays and doing exactly what got him the job to begin with. With the starters in the game against the Bills, the coach showed off what the offense could be if it is able to live up to expectations. Things went well enough that Johnson handed off play-calling at the end of the first half.
Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle called plays in the second half and gained some much-needed experience. Doyle has worked under Sean Payton for years, but lacks any real experience calling plays. This is why the coach was willing to jump ship in Denver and join Ben Johnson's staff in the first place.
Ben Johnson:
— CHGO Bears (@CHGO_Bears) August 18, 2025
OC Declan Doyle called the offensive plays in the second half.
DBs coach Al Harris called the defense in the second half.
Bears Head Coach Delegates Play-Calling After Dominating First Half
Doyle started his NFL coaching career with the New Orleans Saints in 2019 as an offensive assistant before following Payton to the Broncos in 2023. It is the experience with the respected head coach that made Doyle such an attractive hire. However, if there was an obvious weakness or area of concern, it is the lack of experience calling plays.
Johnson understanding of this and working to remedy it in the preseason is a great sign. One that shows a high level of awareness and a desire to improve his staff. If calling plays while filling the head coaching role proves to be too much, Doyle now has experience.
With this in mind, the preseason experience is important and gives Doyle the ability to settle in a bit more. The biggest takeaway from this game is how incredibly dominating the Bears were, even in preseason action. It leaves room to wonder if the franchise might actually take the elusive leap that was expected a season ago.
The right coaching staff and needed pieces are in place. The last missing piece is Caleb Williams taking a step forward and helping push Chicago back to relevance.