In a move that’s likely to stir the pot in the NFL world, rumors are swirling that Tom Brady, the undisputed GOAT of football, could be quietly maneuvering to sabotage the Chicago Bears’ chances of landing Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as their next head coach. While this may sound like the stuff of conspiracy theories, there are a number of unsettling coincidences that suggest Brady’s influence could be shaping the future of one of the NFL’s most storied franchises in a way that benefits him—and his own interests—at the Bears’ expense.
The Johnson-Bears Connection
Ben Johnson’s reputation as a rising star in the coaching world has never been more prominent. As offensive coordinator for the Lions, he has cultivated one of the most dynamic offenses in the NFL, guiding a team to top-tier scoring efficiency while empowering quarterback Jared Goff to reach new heights. With the Bears in desperate need of a transformative figure at head coach, Johnson has been a prime target for the team’s front office.
However, the Bears’ pursuit of Johnson has been anything but smooth. Enter Tom Brady.
Brady’s Subtle Influence
For the past few months, Brady has been publicly linking himself with the potential future of the Lions, often showering praise on Johnson’s abilities and his fit within Detroit’s structure. While that might sound like simple admiration, some insiders have pointed out that Brady’s remarks seem to be sending a veiled message to Chicago—one that could have significant consequences for the Bears’ head coaching search.
Brady’s history with the Lions is interesting, as the former quarterback has forged a relationship with team owner Sheila Ford Hamp. The six-time Super Bowl winner has even been spotted attending several Lions games this season, sparking speculation that he may have a hand in shaping the direction of Detroit’s future. Could Brady be working behind the scenes to lock down Ben Johnson for the Lions, thwarting the Bears’ attempts to lure the promising coach to Chicago? It’s entirely possible, given Brady’s status as one of the most influential figures in the NFL.
The Timing and Motives
What makes this situation even more intriguing is the timing. The Bears are actively looking for a head coach to build their franchise around Justin Fields, who still has tremendous untapped potential. Bringing in a brilliant offensive mind like Johnson could help unlock Fields’ next level of development. Johnson’s innovative approach to offensive football could be exactly what the Bears need to finally move away from the embarrassing quarterback carousel that has plagued them for decades.
But the reality is that Brady’s endorsement of Johnson may have complicated the situation. By speaking highly of him, Brady might be positioning Johnson to stay with the Lions, where he could potentially lead the team for years to come—giving Brady’s post-playing career a strong ally in the NFC North. If Johnson is offered a lucrative long-term contract by Detroit, it could undermine the Bears’ efforts to bring him to Chicago, further entrenching the Lions as a contender in the NFC.
Chicago Bears’ Struggles and Brady’s Legacy
Some might argue that Brady’s influence could simply be a case of him continuing to shape the NFL landscape according to his own interests. After all, if Johnson remains with the Lions and succeeds, it would make the NFC North more competitive, and Brady, with his connections, might prefer a strong Detroit team as part of his legacy, in turn enhancing the division’s overall profile.
For the Bears, it’s another chapter in their frustrating search for a franchise-altering coach. Brady’s involvement in the equation could be seen as yet another hurdle for Chicago, which has struggled with leadership and direction for much of the past two decades. Whether or not Brady is intentionally sabotaging their chances, it certainly doesn’t make things easier for a franchise that desperately needs to get it right this time.
Conclusion
While it’s hard to definitively say whether Tom Brady is actively trying to block the Bears from hiring Ben Johnson, it’s clear that the combination of Brady’s public endorsements and the timing of the Bears’ search is more than a mere coincidence. Chicago’s front office must now contend not just with a difficult coaching market, but also with a world-class quarterback who may have a hand in shaping the future of the NFC North in a way that could leave them in the dust. The question now is whether the Bears can overcome yet another roadblock in their pursuit of a legitimate shot at glory—or if Brady will have the final say in this ongoing drama.