Johnson’s five-year, $65 million deal with the Bears stands out for several reasons. It makes him one of the highest-paid first-time head coaches in NFL history, surpassing what coaches like Mike McDaniel and Mike McCarthy earned in their first seasons. Chicago wasn’t hesitant to make a major financial commitment, offering Johnson a salary more than double that of his predecessor, Matt Eberflus, in 2024.

Dan Campbell’s Salary Becomes a Point of Contention

While Johnson’s contract is a big win for him, it puts Campbell in an awkward position. Despite guiding Detroit to a 15-2 record and securing the NFC’s top seed last season, Campbell currently earns only $6 million per year. His contract runs through 2027, but with his former coordinator now earning more than double his salary, Campbell has a strong case for a well-earned raise.

Shifting the NFC North Coaching Landscape

Johnson’s contract is making waves beyond Detroit. Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell recently signed a contract extension, and some believe Johnson’s deal played a role in advancing those negotiations. Just as the Lions set the market for wide receivers and offensive tackles with significant extensions for Amon-Ra St. Brown and Penei Sewell, Johnson might have unintentionally reset the expectations for coaching salaries in the division.

With Johnson now at the helm of one of Detroit’s biggest rivals and taking key Lions staff with him, the NFC North rivalry is intensifying. While Johnson likely didn’t intend to stir up tension, his departure and massive contract have certainly complicated things for the Lions. As the 2025 season draws near, all eyes will be on the upcoming matchups between Campbell’s Lions and Johnson’s Bears.