The Chicago Bears have solidified the offensive brain trust for head coach Ben Johnson's second season at the helm, making a series of key coaching hires official on February 17, 2026. The team announced four additions to the staff, headlined by the promotion of Press Taylor to offensive coordinator and the hiring of veteran coach Eric Studesville as the new running backs coach.
These moves represent a significant step in shaping the identity and direction of the Bears' offense as they look to build upon the foundation laid in Johnson's debut campaign. For a franchise perpetually in search of offensive consistency and explosiveness, the formalization of this staff signals a clear plan and a commitment to continuity in its developmental philosophy.
Press Taylor Ascends to Offensive Coordinator
The most prominent move is the elevation of Press Taylor, who served in a senior offensive role last season, to the official title of offensive coordinator. This promotion is less about a new voice taking over and more about formalizing a structure that showed promise. Taylor, the younger brother of Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor, has been a fast-riser in coaching circles, known for his innovative mind and collaborative approach.
His journey to this role has been deliberate. He broke into the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles, working his way up from a quality control coach to quarterbacks coach under Doug Pederson, playing a key role in the development of Carson Wentz and the team's Super Bowl LII victory. He followed Pederson to the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he served as offensive coordinator and further honed his system. His arrival in Chicago last year to work alongside Ben Johnson was seen as a major coup, blending two of the league's brighter offensive minds.
Taylor's promotion suggests the Bears are doubling down on the offensive system installed in 2025. While Head Coach Ben Johnson maintains significant influence over the game plan and play-calling--a duty he handled last season--Taylor's elevation to OC formalizes his responsibility for day-to-day installation, game planning, and position group coordination. It creates a powerful partnership at the top of the offensive staff, aiming to be multiple, adaptable, and quarterback-friendly. For a young offense, particularly at the quarterback position, this continuity in messaging and scheme is invaluable.
Eric Studesville Brings a Wealth of Experience
Perhaps the most impactful hire for player development is the addition of Eric Studesville as running backs coach. Studesville is a respected, long-tenured NFL coach with over two decades of experience, notably with the Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins. He brings a proven track record of maximizing running back talent, having coached stars like Knowshon Moreno, C.J. Anderson, and, most recently, helping guide the Dolphins' backfield committee.
His hiring is a classic case of bringing in a seasoned veteran to complement a younger, scheme-driven offensive leadership. Studesville's expertise extends beyond drills and playbooks; he is renowned for his ability to connect with players, manage workloads, and develop the complete skillset required of modern NFL backs--from pass protection to route running. For a Bears running back room looking to establish a new identity, Studesville's steady hand and extensive resume provide immediate credibility and a clear developmental path.
Rounding Out the Staff
While the Taylor and Studesville announcements capture the headlines, the Bears also made two other staff additions official: Will Lawing and Isaiah Ford.
Will Lawing has a history with Johnson, having worked alongside him on the Detroit Lions' staff prior to Johnson's move to Chicago. Lawing is known as a sharp, detail-oriented coach who has worked with tight ends and wide receivers. His familiarity with Johnson's core offensive concepts will aid in a seamless integration and ensure the coaching message remains consistent across position groups.
Isaiah Ford, a former NFL wide receiver who last played in 2023, transitions into the coaching ranks with the Bears. Ford joins as an offensive quality control coach, bringing a unique, contemporary perspective that can resonate with young players. His insight into route techniques, coverage recognition, and the daily life of a professional player will be a significant asset.
Analysis: Building a Cohesive, Modern Offense
The overarching theme of these hires is cohesion and targeted expertise. The Bears, under General Manager Ryan Poles and Head Coach Ben Johnson, are constructing a staff that blends continuity, innovation, and proven developmental skill.
By promoting Press Taylor, they maintain schematic and philosophical consistency, which is critical for the growth of any young quarterback and offensive line. There will be no "system reset" this offseason; instead, the focus will be on refinement, execution, and adding layers to an existing foundation.
The hiring of Eric Studesville addresses a specific need with high-level experience. The running game is often the heartbeat of a successful offense, providing balance and relieving pressure on the passing game. Studesville's appointment signals an intent to build a physical, reliable, and multifaceted ground attack--a hallmark of many of the league's best teams.
Finally, adding loyalists like Will Lawing and a fresh, player-centric perspective like Isaiah Ford's creates a well-rounded support system. This staff now has visionary leadership (Johnson/Taylor), a position-specific sage (Studesville), trusted lieutenants (Lawing), and a new-age communicator (Ford).
For Bears fans, these official announcements should inspire confidence. The organization is not making haphazard changes or chasing big names for headlines. They are deliberately building a staff with complementary skills, a shared vision, and a clear focus on developing the roster's talent. As the 2026 offseason kicks into gear, the Bears' offensive identity is being crafted not just by the players on the field, but by the collective mind trust now officially in place on the sidelines.