Sam LaPorta isn’t hiding his emotions about losing offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to the Chicago Bears. The Detroit Lions’ star tight end admitted it “hurts” to see Johnson, a key figure in his development, jump ship to a division rival.
Speaking on the Up & Adams Show, LaPorta acknowledged the bittersweet nature of the move—he’s happy for Johnson’s new opportunity but knows that Sundays in the NFC North just got a little more personal. Johnson’s departure wasn’t unexpected, but the fact that he landed in Chicago adds an extra layer of intensity to an already heated rivalry.
The Lions have turned the page, hiring John Morton as their new offensive coordinator. While LaPorta hasn’t had much time with Morton yet, he’s eager to see how the “fiery” coach will shape Detroit’s offense. With OTAs set to begin in late April, the transition is about to get real for LaPorta and the rest of the team.