J.T. Barrett Hired as Chicago Bears Quarterbacks Coach: A New Era for the Windy City
February 14, 2025
Introduction: A Rising Star in Coaching Lands in Chicago
In a move that has sent ripples through the NFL coaching ranks, the Chicago Bears have officially hired J.T. Barrett as their new quarterbacks coach. Barrett, a former Ohio State Buckeyes legend and most recently the assistant quarterbacks coach for the Detroit Lions, now takes on a critical role in the development of Chicago’s quarterback situation.
The hiring comes at a pivotal time for the Bears, who are at a crossroads with their signal-caller position. As speculation swirls about the future of their starting quarterback—whether they stick with Justin Fields, draft a new prospect, or explore free agency—Barrett’s appointment signals a commitment to quarterback development and offensive progress.
Let’s take an in-depth look at what Barrett brings to the table, how his experience has shaped his coaching philosophy, and what this move means for the Bears’ future.
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J.T. Barrett’s Journey: From Buckeye Great to NFL Coach
A Storied College Career
J.T. Barrett is no stranger to high expectations. As a quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes from 2014 to 2017, Barrett solidified his name in college football history with record-breaking performances. He finished his collegiate career as Ohio State’s all-time leader in passing yards (9,434), passing touchdowns (104), and total touchdowns (147), leading the Buckeyes to multiple Big Ten Championships and a College Football Playoff National Championship in 2014.
Barrett was known for his leadership, football IQ, and ability to make plays in clutch situations. Though he was not drafted into the NFL in 2018, he spent time on practice squads with the New Orleans Saints, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Seattle Seahawks before pivoting to coaching.
Transition to Coaching
Barrett’s leadership skills made him a natural fit for coaching. He started his coaching career in 2022, joining the Detroit Lions as an offensive assistant. By 2023, he had earned a promotion to assistant quarterbacks coach, working closely with Lions QB Jared Goff and helping shape one of the league’s most potent offenses.
Under Barrett’s guidance, Goff had one of his most efficient seasons, leading the Lions to the playoffs with a high-powered passing attack. Barrett’s role in Detroit’s offensive resurgence caught the attention of teams around the league, and it was only a matter of time before he was given a larger role elsewhere.
What J.T. Barrett Brings to the Bears
1. A Modern Approach to Quarterback Development
The modern NFL demands quarterbacks who can process information quickly, extend plays, and command the offense efficiently. Barrett, having played in a spread offense at Ohio State and coached in a dynamic passing attack with Detroit, is well-versed in these principles.
His ability to relate to young quarterbacks and teach the nuances of the position will be invaluable for Chicago, especially if they decide to draft a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft.
2. Mentorship and Leadership
Barrett has always been known for his leadership—whether as Ohio State’s captain for three seasons or as a coach helping mold quarterbacks in Detroit. The Bears will benefit from his ability to connect with players on and off the field, fostering a culture of discipline and accountability.
His experience as a player gives him credibility in the locker room, something that will be essential in guiding Chicago’s quarterback room.
3. A Fresh Perspective on the Bears’ Offense
The Bears have struggled with offensive consistency in recent years. With a new coaching staff in place, Barrett will bring fresh ideas and a modern approach to quarterback play. His experience working under Ben Johnson, the Lions’ highly regarded offensive coordinator, will likely influence his coaching style in Chicago.
If the Bears are looking to maximize their quarterback’s potential, Barrett’s emphasis on decision-making, footwork, and pre-snap recognition could provide an immediate boost.
The Bears’ Quarterback Conundrum: What’s Next?
Barrett’s hiring raises a bigger question: Who will be the Bears’ quarterback in 2025?
Option 1: Stick with Justin Fields
Justin Fields, the Bears’ 2021 first-round pick, has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency. Fields’ athleticism and playmaking ability make him a dangerous dual-threat quarterback, but his development as a passer has been uneven.
Could Barrett be the key to unlocking Fields’ full potential? Given his success developing quarterbacks, Barrett might be exactly what Fields needs to take the next step in his career.
Option 2: Draft a Quarterback
The Bears hold a top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and many experts believe they could select a quarterback. Prospects like USC’s Caleb Williams, North Carolina’s Drake Maye, or Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy have been linked to Chicago.
If the Bears draft a young quarterback, Barrett’s role becomes even more critical. Developing a rookie quarterback is a challenging task, but Barrett’s track record suggests he is up to the challenge.
Option 3: Sign a Veteran Quarterback
If the Bears decide that neither Fields nor a rookie is the answer, they could explore free agency. A veteran quarterback like Kirk Cousins or Russell Wilson could provide stability, and Barrett’s job would be to get the most out of whoever takes the reins.
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Reactions from Around the League
Bears’ Head Coach Matt Eberflus on Barrett’s Hiring
“We’re excited to bring J.T. Barrett into our coaching staff. He’s a natural leader with a great understanding of the quarterback position. His experience in Detroit, combined with his playing career, makes him the perfect fit to develop our quarterbacks.”
Lions Quarterback Jared Goff on Barrett’s Coaching Style
“J.T. is one of the smartest guys I’ve worked with. He understands how to break down defenses and put quarterbacks in the best position to succeed. Chicago got a good one.”
Ohio State Head Coach Ryan Day on His Former Quarterback
“I always knew J.T. would be a great coach. He was like having another coach on the field when he played at Ohio State. The Bears made a great hire.”
Expectations for 2025 and Beyond
The Bears’ decision to bring in J.T. Barrett as quarterbacks coach is a clear investment in the future of their offense. With the right development plan, Barrett could play a significant role in shaping Chicago’s next great quarterback.
As the Bears prepare for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on how Barrett helps mold the quarterback position. Whether it’s refining Fields, developing a rookie, or maximizing a veteran’s potential, Barrett’s impact could be the key to turning the Bears into a legitimate contender.
One thing is certain: The Windy City just gained one of the NFL’s brightest young coaching minds. The J.T. Barrett era in Chicago has begun.
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