It seems as if Ben Johnson has ideas for how he wants the offensive side of his coaching staff to look. One would think a first-time head coach would want to surround himself with more experienced guys who have been in the trenches before. Not Johnson. The Chicago Bears’ leader has taken an approach similar to Sean McVay in Los Angeles, targeting young unknowns who are ascending in the league ranks and hungry to make names for themselves. Johnson already landed Declan Doyle, the 28-year-old Denver Broncos tight ends coach who already has a reputation for being a whiz kid, according to many in the league.
Now, the Bears are trying to do it again. This time, the target is Washington Commanders assistant quarterbacks coach David Blough. Fans probably remember him best as a backup for the Detroit Lions from 2019 through 2021, which explains the Johnson connection. He famously almost upset the Bears on Thanksgiving as a rookie, throwing for 280 yards and two touchdowns. Now, he’s played a role in Jayden Daniels’ remarkable rookie season. Chicago is hoping to land him as their passing game coordinator.
The Chicago Bears’ interest in Blough is understandable.
After all, he too is a former quarterback like J.T. Barrett, the team’s new quarterbacks coach. It makes sense to surround Caleb Williams with as many guys who have played the position before as possible. Barrett and Blough both had to fight their way into the NFL despite productive college careers. They understand the value of relentless hard work. If Blough ends up on the staff, he could help instill that same way of thinking in Williams. He already has the talent. If he takes on an obsessive work ethic, there will be no stopping him. The Chicago Bears have competition for him, though. Johnson’s former colleague, Aaron Glenn, is also trying to bring him to New York. It will be interesting to see which avenue he considers better for his burgeoning career as a coach.
