Ben Johnson’s move to the Chicago Bears added a new layer of tension to an already heated NFC North rivalry with Dan Campbell and the Detroit Lions. Johnson spent six seasons in Detroit from 2019 through 2024 before departing to take over as Chicago’s head coach in January 2025, making his jump to a division rival especially noteworthy.

That shared history between Johnson and Campbell only amplified the drama once Johnson landed in Chicago. During the 2025–26 regular season, the Bears and Lions squared off twice, with Detroit coming out on top both times. The Lions dominated the first matchup on September 14, 2025, cruising to a 52–21 win, then narrowly defeated Chicago again on January 4, 2026, by a 19–16 margin. Still, Detroit’s failure to reach the postseason softened those victories, as Chicago finished the year with more overall momentum.

Following the January loss, Johnson didn’t hide his frustration with his team’s offensive performance.

“I wasn’t happy with how we played offensively,” Johnson said after the game. “You can’t put yourself in a hole early and expect to climb out. That wasn’t good enough, and the players heard that from me.”

He continued by pointing out execution issues, noting that the game plan itself wasn’t overly complex. Johnson emphasized the need for better preparation and coaching moving forward.

Now, with the season behind them, attention has shifted to the offseason — and early speculation suggests Johnson and the Bears could be eyeing a move involving Detroit once again.

Interestingly, player movement between the two rivals has already begun. On Thursday, January 29, the Lions announced they had signed former Bears tight end Thomas Gordon to a reserve/future contract. Gordon originally joined Chicago in August 2025 but failed to make the active roster. He later landed on the practice squad in December before Chicago declined to offer him a futures deal.

With Detroit pulling a former Bear into the organization, the idea of Chicago returning the favor doesn’t seem far-fetched.

Could a Lions Assistant Follow Johnson to Chicago?

According to a January 30 article by Candace Pedraza of SideLion Report, Johnson may look to Detroit’s coaching staff to fill a growing need in Chicago. After offensive coordinator Declan Doyle departed for the Baltimore Ravens, the Bears are searching for a replacement — and one name stands out.

Pedraza suggests Lions assistant head coach and wide receivers coach Scottie Montgomery could be an ideal target. Having worked closely within Detroit’s offensive system, Montgomery brings experience and familiarity that could appeal to Johnson.

Montgomery’s departure would be a significant blow for Detroit, particularly in relation to the team’s efforts to retain running back David Montgomery. The veteran back reportedly expressed frustration throughout last season regarding his role in the offense, and his future with the Lions remains uncertain. If Detroit were to lose Scottie Montgomery from the coaching staff, it could further complicate efforts to keep David Montgomery in place for the 2026 season.

That scenario could leave the Lions facing a tough decision, potentially opening the door to a trade or release if the situation deteriorates.

If Chicago were to successfully lure Scottie Montgomery away from Detroit, it would represent a major win for Johnson and the Bears — and another twist in the growing rivalry between two familiar foes. Given Johnson’s competitive nature and ties to the Lions organization, it’s not a move that should surprise anyone.