The Chicago Bears have made significant strides in assembling their coaching staff under new head coach Ben Johnson. The team has secured two key coordinators, marking a pivotal step in their preparation for the upcoming NFL season.
- Dennis Allen, former head coach of the New Orleans Saints, has been appointed as the Bears’ new defensive coordinator.
- Declan Doyle, previously the tight ends coach for the Denver Broncos, will take on the role of offensive coordinator.
- Ben Johnson, the newly appointed head coach, has also retained special teams coordinator Richard Hightower.
Dennis Allen Joins as Defensive Coordinator
Dennis Allen, who was dismissed by the Saints midway through the 2024 season, brings a wealth of experience to the Bears. His tenure in New Orleans was marked by mixed results, with an 18-25 record and no playoff appearances during his time as head coach. Despite this, Allen is widely respected for his defensive expertise, having previously served as the Saints’ defensive coordinator for seven seasons before his promotion to head coach in 2022.
“Sources: The #Bears are hiring former #Saints head coach and respected guru Dennis Allen as their new defensive coordinator. The favorite to join coach Ben Johnson’s staff since Johnson’s hire, Allen adds experience and a top-notch DC to Chicago.” — Ian Rapoport
Allen’s dismissal from the Saints came after a challenging season, which included a seven-game losing streak following a promising start. His ability to rebuild defenses, however, remains a key asset, and the Bears are hopeful that his leadership will bolster their defensive unit.
Declan Doyle Steps Up as Offensive Coordinator
On the offensive side, the Bears have turned to Declan Doyle, a rising star in the coaching ranks. Doyle, who spent the past two seasons as the tight ends coach for the Denver Broncos, has a strong connection with Allen, having worked alongside him during his time with the Saints. At just 28 years old, Doyle represents a fresh perspective for the Bears’ offense.
“#Bears are hiring Declan Doyle as offensive coordinator.” — Brad Biggs
Doyle’s journey in the NFL began as an offensive assistant with the Saints, where he honed his skills under Allen’s guidance. His promotion to offensive coordinator is a testament to his potential and the Bears’ commitment to nurturing young talent within their coaching staff.
Ben Johnson’s Vision for the Bears
Ben Johnson, who was appointed as the Bears’ head coach earlier this month, has been instrumental in shaping the team’s new direction. After a successful stint as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, Johnson was brought in to replace Matt Eberflus and revitalize the Bears’ fortunes. His decision to retain Richard Hightower as special teams coordinator further underscores his commitment to continuity and stability within the organization.
With Allen and Doyle now on board, Johnson has a solid foundation to build upon as he aims to lead the Bears to their first playoff appearance in five years. The team’s fans are hopeful that this new coaching trio can bring about a much-needed turnaround.
Looking Ahead
The Bears’ decision to bring in Dennis Allen and Declan Doyle reflects a strategic approach to addressing both sides of the ball. Allen’s defensive acumen and Doyle’s innovative offensive mindset could prove to be a winning combination for the team. As the Bears prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how this new coaching staff can transform the franchise and deliver results on the field.
For more insights into the Bears’ coaching changes and their impact on the team’s future, explore our detailed analysis on Bears Coaching Staff 2025.