By Mummy Grace 
ALLEN PARK – Injuries are part of the game, and this Detroit defense is definitely feeling the heat as they gear up for the playoffs. But hey, not all bad news—one guy stepping up has been there, done that, and even got the Super Bowl T-shirt. Enter linebacker Ben Niemann.
Niemann’s no stranger to the postseason grind. He spent four solid years with the Kansas City Chiefs, played in 11 playoff games, and even suited up for two Super Bowls. Talk about experience! Now, after a couple of quieter seasons, Niemann’s back in the playoff mix with the Lions. Let’s get to know the guy a bit better in this week’s 5 Questions series:
Q1: “Next man up” is the mantra, but what does it really take to step into a big role on short notice?
A: “Honestly, it’s all about staying ready. You can’t let the number of snaps dictate your prep. Every week, you’ve got to act like you’re gonna see the field—mentally, physically, the whole deal. If your number’s called, you’re ready. If not, no biggie, but at least you’re prepared.”
Q2: You’ve got playoff experience from your Chiefs days. How does that help as you prepare for this run with Detroit?
A: “Man, those years in Kansas City were wild. Deep playoff runs, two Super Bowls—it was incredible. Then I had a couple of quieter years and realized how special those opportunities are. You learn to appreciate it more. The stakes are huge in the playoffs, and you’ve gotta bring your A-game or it’s curtains.”
Q3: You’re an Iowa guy through and through. What’s the secret sauce in that program?
A: “Iowa’s like an NFL bootcamp. Coach Ferentz runs the program like a pro team—everything from punctuality to attention to detail. It’s all about earning your spot, no handouts. It’s blue-collar, just like the Lions. That’s why so many of us from Iowa end up carving out careers in the NFL.”
Q4: Your dad’s now on the Iowa coaching staff. What’s it like going back there?
A: “It’s awesome. I train there in the offseason, so I’m around the team, my brother (Nick, who plays for the Chargers), and the same coaches I had back in the day. It’s like one big family—so many familiar faces. It’s really cool being part of that legacy.”
Q5: Speaking of your brother, do you prefer playing against him or not?
A: “It’s a mixed bag. On one hand, it’s great sharing the field and doing the jersey swap thing. But on the flip side, there were times we’d go head-to-head on special teams, and that’s tough. You want to win your matchup, but you also want the best for him. It’s a weird dynamic, for sure.”
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Click around, stay informed, and as always, Go Lions!