Even in a new role and a new city, Ben Johnson still sounds a lot like a Detroit Lion.
As the Chicago Bears prepare for their matchup against the Los Angeles Rams, Johnson made headlines by invoking former Lions star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown while discussing offensive preparation. The comment immediately caught attention across the NFC North, serving as a reminder of just how influential Johnson’s time in Detroit remains on his coaching approach.
During his rise with the Lions, Johnson helped unlock Amon-Ra’s full potential, turning him into one of the NFL’s most reliable and physical receivers. St. Brown became the blueprint for toughness, precision, and effort within Detroit’s offense — traits Johnson clearly still values as he shapes his vision in Chicago.
The reference wasn’t accidental. Johnson has long emphasized receivers who block with intent, win in tight spaces, and bring a relentless edge every snap. Mentioning Amon-Ra while preparing for the Rams signals the standard Johnson expects — and it’s a standard forged during Detroit’s ascent.
For Lions fans, the moment hits close to home. While Johnson now wears Bears colors, Detroit’s fingerprints are still all over his football philosophy. And for the rest of the NFC North, it’s another reminder that the culture built in Detroit didn’t disappear when Johnson left — it followed him.
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