BREAKING: J.T. Barrett, a former standout quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes and most recently the assistant quarterbacks coach for the Detroit Lions, has been hired as the quarterbacks coach for the Chicago Bears…
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J.T. Barrett, a former standout quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes, has been appointed as the quarterbacks coach for the Chicago Bears. This move marks a significant advancement in Barrett’s coaching career, following his tenure with the Detroit Lions.
Early Life and College Career
Born on January 23, 1995, in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Joe Thomas Barrett IV, known as J.T. Barrett, attended S.H. Rider High School in Wichita Falls, Texas. There, he excelled as a dual-threat quarterback, showcasing his versatility and athleticism. Despite an ACL injury in his senior year, Barrett’s high school performance earned him a four-star recruit status and the seventh position among dual-threat quarterbacks in his class.
Barrett committed to Ohio State University in April 2012, where he became a pivotal figure in the Buckeyes’ offense. He earned third-team All-American honors in 2014 and was named Big Ten Most Valuable Player in 2016. His leadership and performance were instrumental in Ohio State’s national championship victory in 2014.
Professional Playing Career
After going undrafted in the 2018 NFL Draft, Barrett signed with the New Orleans Saints. He also had stints with the Seattle Seahawks, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Edmonton Elks, gaining valuable experience in various offensive systems.
Coaching Career
Transitioning from player to coach, Barrett joined the Detroit Lions in July 2022 as an offensive assistant under head coach Dan Campbell. His deep understanding of quarterback play led to his promotion to assistant quarterbacks coach in February 2023. During his tenure with the Lions, Barrett worked closely with quarterbacks Jared Goff and David Blough, contributing to the team’s offensive development.
In January 2025, Barrett was hired by the Chicago Bears as their quarterbacks coach under head coach Ben Johnson. This appointment signifies a significant step in Barrett’s coaching career, placing him at the helm of a critical position for a storied NFL franchise. His experience as a former quarterback and his recent coaching roles position him to make a substantial impact on the Bears’ quarterback development.
Personal Life and Challenges
Barrett’s career has not been without controversy. In December 2014, he was involved in a domestic incident, though no charges were filed. In October 2015, he was arrested for operating a vehicle under the influence, leading to a fine and a license suspension. Ohio State suspended Barrett for one game following the incident. These events have been part of Barrett’s personal journey, but he has continued to demonstrate resilience and commitment to his professional growth.
Impact and Future Outlook
Barrett’s transition into coaching reflects his dedication to the sport and his desire to mentor the next generation of quarterbacks. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his experience at both the collegiate and professional levels, positions him as a valuable asset to the Chicago Bears. As quarterbacks coach, Barrett will play a pivotal role in developing the team’s signal-callers, aiming to enhance their performance and contribute to the Bears’ success in the upcoming seasons.
In summary, J.T. Barrett’s journey from a celebrated college quarterback to an NFL coaching position exemplifies his passion for football and his commitment to excellence. His appointment as the Chicago Bears’ quarterbacks coach is a testament to his growth and potential in the coaching realm.