Robert Feder reported on Monday that it’s looking increasingly likely that Jonathon Brandmeier will become the new afternoon drive host on WGN-AM 720 once Steve Cochran’s contract with the station runs out in March.

Feder claims, without attribution, that Brandmeier was seen recently at WGN, inspecting the studios, in full view of station staff. If true, that doesn’t, in and of itself, mean that Johnny B will be joining WGN. But multiple sources are reporting that the station has essentially cut off talks with Steve Cochrane about renewing his deal.  The rumors of Johnny B afternoon show have become more intense since Brandmeier abruptly left the Loop WLUP-FM 97.9 in November when Emmis Communications chose not to renew his deal.

In the meantime, Brandmeier released a parody video, spoofing his recent membership in the ranks of the unemployed. In the closing scene of the video, Brandmeier is shown standing outside of the Tribune Tower, holding up a sign that says, “Will Work.”

If WGN does decide to bring Brandmeier to afternoons, it will certainly demonstrate that the station is moving in a very different direction than what it’s traditionally been known for. Since the arrival of PD Kevin Metheny, the station moved out-of-towner Greg Jarrett into morning drive, replacing John Williams, who had replaced Spike O’Dell only a few months earlier. Williams then took the late morning slot previously held by Kathy & Judy. In addition, Garry Meier returned from radio exile to helm the early afternoon shift.

Many believe that Metheny is attempting to position WGN to appeal to a younger audience, to better compete for the coveted 25-54 year-0ld demographic. It’s questionable whether hiring Meier (age 60) and Jarrett (age 57) will really achieve that goal. Hiring Brandmeier (age 53) wouldn’t do much to skew the station line-up much younger. But as Johnny B has long said, “We’re all crazy in Chicago.”