Ben Johnson, the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, was one of the most sought-after names in this year’s NFL head coaching market.

On Monday, he accepted the Chicago Bears’ offer to become their new head coach.

To secure Johnson, the Bears had to outbid competing teams, ultimately offering a massive contract. Johnson’s deal is so substantial that he will earn more annually than the NFL’s top free-agent signing of 2024.

At 38 years old, Johnson has established himself as one of the league’s brightest offensive minds.

During his three years as the Lions’ offensive coordinator, he transformed them into the NFL’s top offensive unit. His creative strategies, combined with attention to detail, made the Lions’ offense highly effective, whether passing or running the ball.

Now, Johnson is tasked with revitalizing a Bears franchise plagued by decades of offensive struggles, including never having produced a 4,000-yard passer.

However, the Bears have promising pieces in place, most notably franchise quarterback Caleb Williams. On paper, this pairing seems like a great match.

The Bears spared no expense to bring Johnson to Chicago.

According to Pro Football Talk, his unprecedented $13 million per year salary is staggering for a first-time head coach.

In fact, his annual pay is slightly higher than Saquon Barkley’s earnings from a 3-year, $37 million contract with the Eagles.

Considering Barkley’s status as one of the NFL’s top players this past season, the Bears’ investment in Johnson is extraordinary.

With such a lucrative deal comes great expectations. Now, the pressure is on Johnson to prove he’s worth the price tag by delivering results and turning the Bears into a winning team.

The next chapter of his coaching career begins in Chicago.