Why Ben Johnson Chose Press Taylor as His New OC
The Bears are promoting passing game coordinator Press Taylor to offensive coordinator. Taylor replaces Declan Doyle, who left for Baltimore. Ben Johnson now has a new top assistant on offense.
This is a straight in-house move. Taylor worked with Johnson last season and already knows the system. He also has prior experience as an offensive coordinator with Jacksonville before 2024. The Bears are choosing familiarity and continuity rather than starting over.
Another clear effect of this move is stability on the staff. Antwaan Randle El remains in place as wide receivers coach and assistant head coach. The Bears did not reshuffle major roles around Caleb Williams. That matters for a young quarterback entering another year of development.
Taylor is the offensive coordinator. But Ben Johnson will call the plays. The offensive structure stays intact.
What Press Taylor Brings and Where He Falls Short
Taylor has value as a teacher and communicator. He is known for his work with quarterbacks and his role in weekly game prep. He understands route concepts, timing, and how to explain the offense to players. That is not nothing. For a young offense, that part matters.
Where concerns show up is on game day. Taylor has not built a strong reputation for in-game feel or adjusting once the original plan breaks down. His past work suggests he is better suited as a second offensive voice rather than another primary architect. That does not mean he is bad at his job. It means there is a ceiling to what he should be asked to handle.
This is where it is important to separate opinion from reality. The Bears are not handing Taylor full control of the offense. Ben Johnson will still call the plays. Johnson’s system, sequencing, and feel will drive the offense. Taylor’s role is to support that vision, not replace it.
Taylor is also the younger brother of Bengals head coach Zac Taylor.
Why This Makes Sense for the Bears
From a Bears point of view, this move is logical. Caleb Williams keeps the same language and structure. Johnson keeps a trusted voice in the room. The staff avoids too much disruption in a season where progress matters more than reinvention.
If Ben Johnson is calling the plays, the offensive coordinator title is secondary. Johnson earned trust with his work. If this is the assistant he wants, he deserves the benefit of the doubt. Taylor does not need to be elite at everything. He needs to support Johnson and help the offense function week to week.
For the Bears, this is a steady decision. Not flashy. Not risky. Just stable.