By admin 
Despite leading the Lions’ offensive resurgence, Detroit’s offensive coordinator Ben Johnson finds himself targeted by renewed criticism from Washington insiders ahead of a critical playoff clash.
A Familiar Narrative Resurfaces
As the Detroit Lions gear up for a high-stakes Divisional Round playoff game against the Washington Commanders, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson finds himself once again at the center of controversy. Commanders insider Lake Lewis Jr. has reignited old rumors questioning Johnson’s leadership qualities, echoing a narrative from last year that painted him as an unsuitable head coaching candidate.
This renewed scrutiny seems conveniently timed, raising questions about the intent behind revisiting Johnson’s decision to withdraw from Washington’s head coaching search last offseason.
The Origin of the Smear: Johnson’s Withdrawal from Washington’s Search
In the 2023 coaching cycle, Ben Johnson was widely regarded as a top contender for the Washington Commanders’ head coaching job. Johnson, celebrated for transforming Detroit’s offense into one of the NFL’s most dynamic units, appeared to be the innovative leader Washington desperately needed.
However, Johnson abruptly withdrew from the interview process just as the Commanders’ front office was preparing to meet him in Detroit. His decision was unexpected and left many speculating about the reasons behind it.
Rather than moving on, the Commanders’ leadership seemed to pivot toward damage control. Reports emerged suggesting Johnson lacked the leadership qualities necessary for a head coaching role. An anonymous source even described him as someone who preferred to “hole up in his office” with “mad scientist vibes” rather than leading a team. This narrative appeared more like retaliation than a fair assessment.
Lake Lewis Jr. Rekindles the Controversy
On a recent episode of the Ramblin With Rio Robinson podcast, Lake Lewis Jr. revisited the Commanders’ version of events. He claimed that during discussions en route to Detroit, Johnson expressed a preference for working with quarterback Sam Howell—Washington’s young signal-caller at the time.
According to Lewis, this preference clashed with the Commanders’ front office plans to draft a different quarterback, reportedly Jayden Daniels. “It was brought up that Ben Johnson still wanted Sam Howell. That’s who he wanted to be the quarterback for this offense,” Lewis stated. He further suggested that Washington’s new general manager, Adam Peters, immediately shut down the idea and canceled the meeting: “It was Adam Peters that said turn that plane around.”
This version of events casts Johnson as inflexible and unwilling to align with Washington’s long-term vision. However, critics argue this story conveniently shifts blame onto Johnson for Washington’s coaching struggles, rather than reflecting on the organization’s internal missteps.
The Timing Raises Eyebrows
The revival of this narrative right before a crucial playoff game seems more than coincidental. With the Lions thriving under Johnson’s offensive leadership and the Commanders watching from the sidelines, the smear campaign feels like a desperate attempt to save face.
Johnson’s decision to remain in Detroit has proven wise. The Lions captured the NFC North title and secured the No. 1 seed in the playoffs—milestones the franchise hasn’t reached in decades. His offensive schemes have been pivotal, transforming Detroit into one of the NFL’s most dangerous teams.
Johnson Lets Results Speak for Themselves
Despite the renewed criticism, Johnson has remained focused on what matters most—winning. His offense continues to thrive, and the Lions are on the brink of a potential Super Bowl run. His leadership, once questioned, is now praised within Detroit and across the league.
Players and coaches alike have rallied behind Johnson. His commitment to the team, adaptability, and innovative offensive strategies have been central to Detroit’s resurgence.
Veteran Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone summed it up perfectly: “He’s a hell of a coach, hell of a teacher, hell of a person.”
The Commanders’ Smear Tactics Backfire
By resurfacing this narrative, the Commanders have unintentionally highlighted their own struggles to secure elite coaching talent. Rather than reflecting on why top candidates like Johnson walked away, they’ve chosen to recycle old criticisms.
This strategy not only undermines their credibility but also fails to tarnish Johnson’s growing reputation. If anything, it underscores the impact of his decision to stay in Detroit—a move that has paid off handsomely.
Moving Forward: Johnson’s Legacy Is in His Results
As the Lions prepare to face the Commanders, Johnson’s focus remains on the field, not the noise. His body of work speaks louder than any anonymous criticism.
Regardless of how this playoff run ends, Ben Johnson has solidified his status as one of the NFL’s top coaching minds. His leadership has turned Detroit into a powerhouse, proving that his decision to prioritize the Lions over other opportunities was far from a mistake.
In the end, it’s clear: actions define a coach, not rumors.