**How A Major Mistake Allowed Bears To Steal Dan Roushar**
Ben Johnson has assembled a dynamic coaching staff, sparking debates over who stands out as the best addition. Some argue it’s defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, known for his track record of top-10 defenses in New Orleans. Others point to Eric Bieniemy, a running backs guru with a Super Bowl-winning background. Yet, the real victory could be convincing 64-year-old offensive line coach Dan Roushar to leave college and join the Chicago Bears. This is the same coach who developed five future Pro Bowlers with the Saints from 2013 to 2022.
**Ben Johnson to Boost Bears’ Offense for Caleb Williams**
This was a major coup for Johnson as he seeks to revitalize the Bears’ offense, though it almost didn’t happen. Sources revealed to SM that the Roushar hire took longer than others due to a tense stand-off at Tulane. Roushar initially hoped to secure a pay raise from the university, having lived in Louisiana for over a decade. However, Tulane offered him an unsatisfactory contract. The uncertainty surrounding head coach Jon Sumrall’s potential departure for a bigger job soon also led Roushar to view Chicago as the better option.
Dan Roushar’s decision was well-founded. For one, the Bears presented a much stronger financial offer, something Tulane couldn’t match. Additionally, Sumrall has a history of moving on quickly, having left Troy after just two successful years for Tulane. Rumors suggested he might be eyeing the Kentucky job, especially with Mark Stoops potentially retiring soon. Having already witnessed Willie Fritz, who hired him in 2023, leave for Houston, Roushar was not eager to remain in a constantly shifting coaching environment.
**Chicago Benefits from Tulane’s Loss**
Tulane’s loss is Chicago’s gain. Roushar is widely regarded as one of the top offensive line coaches in both college and professional football. Tulane fans expressed their disappointment after his departure, given the impact he had on their program. Now, Roushar will have the chance to address many of the issues that have plagued the Bears in recent seasons. The next step will be acquiring the right talent to work with. GM Ryan Poles is expected to be aggressive in both free agency and the draft to bolster the team’s offensive line.
