Did A Packers Legend Accidently Nudge Ben Johnson To Chicago? Why It’s Possible

Writer Erik Lambert argues that former Green Bay Packers head coach Mike Holmgren indirectly influenced Ben Johnson's coaching journey to the Chicago Bears. Citing ESPN's Courtney Cronin, the article notes that Johnson developed his passion for football around 1990 while watching the San Francisco 49ers with his father. During that era, Holmgren served as San Francisco's offensive coordinator and play-caller before moving on to Green Bay in 1992.

Lambert highlights the irony of Holmgren inspiring Johnson's early fascination with offensive scheming and play design. After later serving as offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, Johnson became the head coach of the Bears in 2025, where he has embraced the intense NFC North rivalry against the Packers.