Some around the league think the Detroit Lions will be just fine after losing offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. But at least one NFL executive strongly disagrees, believing the departure of Johnson could cripple Detroit’s offense in 2025.
According to The Athletic, the exec compared Johnson’s loss to the Rams losing Sean McVay, calling him an “evil genius” when it comes to play calling. Johnson helped transform the Lions’ offense into one of the NFL’s best, with an aggressive, four-down mentality that kept defenses guessing.
While the Lions have faith in new offensive coordinator John Morton, replacing Johnson won’t be easy. Morton has experience in Detroit, but he hasn’t called plays in nearly a decade. Meanwhile, Johnson will now be coaching against the Lions twice a year as the new head coach of the Chicago Bears.
If the Lions’ offense takes a step back in 2025, the loss of Johnson will be a major talking point. But if Detroit keeps rolling, it will prove the system is bigger than one coach.
NFL Exec: Ben Johnson’s Exit Could Be Devastating for Detroit
