The Detroit Lions are preparing for the loss of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who is set to leave Detroit to take on a head coaching role. Johnson has narrowed his choices down to the Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Las Vegas Raiders, with an announcement expected soon. His exit represents a significant shift for the Lions, especially following their season-ending playoff loss to the Washington Commanders.
Johnson’s coaching expertise has been widely praised, but concerns arose about his preparation leading into Detroit’s most crucial game of the season. His decision to interview for head coaching positions in the days before the Lions’ divisional-round game has drawn criticism, especially after the offense struggled in a 45-31 defeat. With Johnson departing, the question remains: Was his focus divided during such a critical week?
Playoff Struggles Spark Questions on Preparation
The Lions entered the playoff game as the clear favorites at home. Despite having one of the NFL’s most potent offenses this season, they faltered in the divisional round. Turnovers, stalled drives, questionable play calling, and missed chances defined a game many expected Detroit to win. The loss has fueled speculation that Johnson’s attention was split between preparing for the game and securing his next opportunity.
A Pioneer of Offensive Brilliance
Even with the disappointing playoff exit, Johnson’s influence on the Lions is undeniable. Since becoming offensive coordinator, he transformed Detroit into one of the NFL’s top offensive teams. Under his guidance, quarterback Jared Goff revived his career, and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown emerged as one of the league’s top pass catchers, earning two consecutive All-Pro selections.
Johnson’s inventive play designs and his ability to adapt to player strengths brought him widespread acclaim, positioning him as a top contender for various head coaching roles. Teams such as the Bears, Jaguars, and Raiders are eager to bring him in, viewing him as a leader capable of reshaping a franchise. With Johnson leaving, the Lions will face a tough challenge in replacing him with a dynamic play-caller who can align with Dan Campbell’s coaching style.
What’s Next for Detroit?
As Johnson departs, the focus shifts to the Lions’ future. Head coach Dan Campbell faces a pivotal task in finding a successor who can maintain the offensive success Johnson established. The stakes are high, as Goff and St. Brown thrived in Johnson’s system, and any disruption could hinder the Lions’ progress.
Campbell must also address concerns regarding the team’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations. While the Lions showed great improvement this season, their failure to capitalize on their playoff opportunity has raised doubts about their mental toughness and preparation.
With Johnson’s imminent departure, the Lions find themselves at a crossroads. As he moves on to pursue his head coaching ambitions, Detroit must prove that its recent success wasn’t solely the result of one individual’s vision.
