Former Bears OC Declan Doyle Embraces Age Conversation as Ravens Play-Caller

Former Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Declan Doyle isn’t running from the conversation about his age.

He’s leaning into it.

Now the offensive coordinator of the Baltimore Ravens entering the 2026 season, Doyle addressed the topic directly during a Wednesday press conference.

“I think first of all, it starts with any of our players, it’s the relationship that you build,” Doyle said. “It actually is a little bit easier for me to connect with guys because we are the same age. We grew up in the same world… This is going to be my 11th year coaching, and I’ve pretty much been younger than every guy in the room I’ve been in. I’ve always been too young for every job I’ve ever had.”

That perspective tracks with what Bears fans saw during his time in Chicago.

Doyle’s (really Ben Johnson's) offense in 2025 evolved as the season progressed, especially as Caleb Williams grew more comfortable in Year 2. Chicago’s offensive efficiency improved late in the year, particularly in situational football, and Doyle’s hard work behind the scenes had a lot to do with it.

He said he'll emphasize the same philosophy in Baltimore.

“What I’ve noticed is that it really doesn’t matter. Knowledge is power,” Doyle said. “If they feel like you can help them and accelerate their career and our goals as a team, guys are willing to listen.”

Coaching credibility in the NFL isn’t about gray hair or time on task. It’s about clarity. It’s about whether players believe the plan gives them an edge. Doyle has built his young career on that premise, rising quickly despite constant chatter that he was “too young” for the room.

In Chicago, he earned Ben Johnson's trust. And that says a lot. In Baltimore, he inherits an offense already built on explosiveness and quarterback-centric design, making relationship-building even more critical.

For Bears fans watching from afar, the storyline feels familiar. The age question will linger, but results will silence it.