As the NFL world reacted to the news that the Chicago Bears hired Ben Johnson to be their head coach, the discussion naturally pivoted to who would fill out his staff. Former New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen has emerged as a leading candidate, evoking both optimism and dread from different parts of the internet.
The idea has fans and analysts debating, with many media members ready to praise Johnson for the hire.
Are the Chicago Bears Swinging Big or Striking Out With Dennis Allen?
The Bears could be swinging for the fences with Allen as their potential defensive coordinator. Johnson, the Bears’ head coach, has been busy piecing together a pivotal staff, and Allen’s consideration (per Adam Schefter) has sparked fiery reactions from fans and analysts alike.
“This would be home run hire imo,” ESPN’s Mina Kimes posted, giving a nod to Allen’s defensive credentials.
Even so, Allen’s hype is far from unanimous.
This would be home run hire imo https://t.co/cZO2eSPqlV
— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) January 20, 2025
“Gross,” another chimed in, citing New Orleans’ defensive woes under Allen in 2024. The numbers paint a troubling picture: the Saints ranked 32nd in total yards allowed (392.75 per game) and 28th in rush defense (allowing 143.63 yards per game).
The passing game was a mixed bag: they gave up 249.13 passing yards per game (28th) but still managed to crack the top 12 in efficiency metrics like EPA per play.
To their credit, the Saints ranked 19th by PFN’s Defense+ metric on the year, finding more success against the pass than the run.
One fan suggested that the Bears were already in trouble. “What will Ben Johnson be able to do that other Bears’ first-time head coaches the past 40 years haven’t been able to? It just doesn’t work out there for first-time head coaches,” they wrote.
What will Ben Johnson be able to do that other Bears’ first-time head coaches the past 40 years haven’t been able to? It just doesn’t work out there for first-time head coaches.
— Don Helbig (@DonHelbig) January 20, 2025
Criticism extended beyond Allen. Johnson, some argue, might be stretching himself thin. “He was busy assembling his staff and not coaching the Lions offense in the playoffs,” a fan quipped. Detroit lost 45-31 to the Washington Commanders in the Divisional Round.
Still, Allen’s experience as a former head coach and his defensive pedigree intrigue Bears fans looking for a spark on that side of the ball. His potential hire is polarizing, reflecting both hope and skepticism.
For Chicago, the stakes are high. If Johnson and Allen click, this could reset the franchise’s trajectory. If not, fans might be left wondering if this “home run hire” was just a foul ball.
Dennis Allen’s Path From Saints Glory to Bears Reboot
Allen might be plotting a defensive masterclass against the team he called home for over a decade.
Fired by the Saints in November (after an 18-25 run), Allen’s résumé still packs a punch. He was part of the New Orleans’ Super Bowl XLIV-winning staff, coaching the secondary that helped deliver the franchise’s crown jewel. From Payton’s right-hand man to a short stint as the Las Vegas Raiders HC, Allen’s journey has been a mix of highs and hard lessons.
The Bears could offer Allen a chance to reboot and face his former squad when the Bears host the Saints in 2025. Awkward? Maybe. Intriguing? Absolutely.
If Allen gets the nod, it’s not just a hire; it’s the setup for a revenge tour. With more exciting talent in his (potential) new home, Allen could be an ideal complement to Johnson on the coaching staff.