Chicago Bears superfan Bill Murray pumped up about new coaching staff: 'I endorse this completely'

The Chicago Bears are entering a new era Monday night — the Ben Johnson era. The former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator is making his NFL head coaching debut in the Week 1 home contest against the Minnesota Vikings.

Johnson was the apple of the Bears’ eye during their coaching search earlier this year, and he’s expected to bring his explosive offense with him to Chicago. Working under Dan Campbell in Detroit, Johnson learned a thing or two about being aggressive on fourth down. Bill Murray, actor and lifelong Bears superfan, is excited about the possibility of Johnson bringing that aggressiveness to the Windy City.

“I am behind it. I endorse this completely,” Murray said on the ManningCast. “Saw a story about some football coach who never, ever punts on fourth down ever. And he had great success. I think we can do it. I think if your defense is good enough, you should do it. Like, the ’85 Bears never needed to punt. They could have always gone for it.” 

Bears begin new era under Ben Johnson

Johnson’s main objective is to help the Bears win games. Beyond that, the focus is on getting the best out of 2024 No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams. The former Heisman Trophy winner had an up-and-down rookie season, in which he was sacked a league-high 68 times.

Johnson and co. have rebuilt the interior of the Bears’ offensive line this offseason, bringing in two-time All-Pro left guard Joe Thuney, center Drew Dalman and right guard Jonah Jackson. In theory, Williams should see improved protection, which will allow him to operate the offense and get the ball out to Chicago’s many playmakers.

The early returns are promising. Only one half of football into the 2025 season, and Williams looks like a completely different player than what he was in 2024. The Bears have a 10-6 lead at the half. Williams is 13-of-16 for 112 yards. When he’s been pressured, he’s found ways to avoid sacks and pick up yardage. His nine-yard rushing score in the first quarter stands as the only touchdown so far in the game.

There’s a long way to go, but Murray has to like what he’s watching. The same goes for all of Bears nation.