The Detroit Lions knew they’d lose some top talent after their breakout 2024 season—but one departure is drawing more attention than most. Ben Johnson, the offensive mastermind who helped elevate Detroit’s offense to elite status, is now head coach of the Chicago Bears. And according to at least one NFL executive, the Lions might have let go of a coach with Sean McVay-level potential.
In comments shared with The Athletic, the exec called Johnson an “evil genius” when it came to play-calling and praised his mastery of game-management situations, saying his departure is as significant for Detroit as it would’ve been for the Rams to lose McVay in his prime. That’s high praise—and big pressure. At just 33, Johnson steps into his first head coaching role with the Bears, much like McVay did at 31 with the Rams.
Lions fans may find it bittersweet. Johnson’s fingerprints are all over the team’s recent success, and now they’ll see him twice a year in NFC North battles. While it’s too early to declare him the next McVay, if Johnson lights it up in Chicago, Detroit could be left wondering what might have been.
From Detroit to Destiny? Ex-Lions Coach Compared to Super Bowl Winner
