Chicago Bears Strengthen Coaching Staff with Key Additions

2025-01-25

The Chicago Bears are bolstering their coaching staff under new head coach Ben Johnson, with former NFL player and Detroit Lions wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El set to join the team as assistant head coach and wide receivers coach. Randle El, a Thornton High School graduate and former standout quarterback at Indiana University, brings a wealth of experience both as a player and coach. He played nine seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he famously threw a touchdown pass in Super Bowl XL. Randle El has been coaching since 2019, starting with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before joining the Lions in 2021, where he helped develop star receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams.

In addition to Randle El, the Bears are also expected to hire J.T. Barrett, the Lions’ assistant quarterbacks coach, as their new quarterbacks coach. Barrett, a former Ohio State standout, has been with the Lions since 2022. The team is also reportedly adding Al Harris, the Dallas Cowboys’ defensive backs coach, as their defensive passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach. Harris, a former Pro Bowl cornerback, brings over a decade of coaching experience, including stints with the Dolphins, Chiefs, and Cowboys.

These hires mark a significant step in building Johnson’s coaching staff, as he looks to bring a fresh perspective and accountability to the Bears’ locker room. Randle El, in particular, is known for his high-energy coaching style and emphasis on player development, making him a valuable addition to the team. The Bears are expected to retain special teams coordinator Richard Hightower, though no official announcements have been made regarding other staff members.

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