Just a few days after the Chicago Bears officially hired Dennis Allen as their defensive coordinator, they brought veteran defensive line coach Bill Johnson onto the staff, according to Aaron Wilson. Johnson boasts extensive experience coaching in both the NFL and college ranks, including a Super Bowl ring and two National Championships at the college level.
Johnson most recently served as the defensive line coach for the Birmingham Stallions in the United Football League (UFL). He began his coaching career in 1980 and brings about 45 years of football experience to Halas Hall. Throughout these 45 years, he has primarily focused on coaching the defensive line. Players who have played under his guidance include:
- John Abraham (133.5 career sacks)
- Cameron Jordan (121.5 career sacks)
- Aaron Donald (111 career sacks)
- Elvis Dumervil (105.5 career sacks)
- Robert Quinn (102 career sacks)
- Patrick Kerney (82.5 career sacks)
- Ndamukong Suh (71.5 career sacks)
- Roderick Coleman (58.5 career sacks)
- Dante Fowler (55.5 career sacks)
- Ellis Johnson (51 career sacks)
- Will Smith (67.5 career sacks)
- Akiem Hicks (41.5 career sacks)
It has not been announced whether Johnson will become the Bears' defensive line coach or take on another role within the defensive staff. Either way, it's a positive to have such an experienced and accomplished defensive mind on board to work with Montez Sweat, Gervon Dexter, and Austin Booker.
