By Blessing 
As the Detroit Lions braced themselves for another offseason following a tough playoff exit, Amon-Ra St. Brown found himself reflecting on a significant change within the team. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, an instrumental part of the Lions’ success, had recently accepted the head coaching position with the Chicago Bears. Though his departure was bittersweet, St. Brown shared a humorous and heartfelt story that captured the bond they shared.
The Playful Exchange Between St. Brown and Johnson
When Johnson took the Bears job, St. Brown didn’t hold back in teasing him. The two exchanged lighthearted jabs about their future matchups, showcasing their competitive nature.
“I told him, ‘For two times a year, Ben, we’re going to [Expletive] you up,’” St. Brown recalled, chuckling. “He goes, ‘I’ma [Expletive] you up.’ I said, ‘Okay, we’ll see.’” St. Brown, always confident, added, “I told him I know all the plays he likes to run. I know all his tendencies.”
This playful banter was all in good fun, reflecting both their respect for each other and their shared drive to compete at the highest level. St. Brown summed it up perfectly: “If I want to be the best, I’ve got to beat the best, right?”
A Heartfelt Goodbye
Despite the jokes, St. Brown was sincere in his admiration for Johnson and his happiness for the coach’s new opportunity.
“I love Ben. I’m happy for him, happy for his family, his kids. I love his kids, wife is amazing,” he shared. Yet, there was no denying the sting of seeing Johnson join a division rival.
“I didn’t know if he was going to take the Bears job, if I’m being honest,” St. Brown admitted. “But he took it.”
Looking Ahead
The Lions may have lost a key figure in Johnson, but St. Brown’s fire to succeed remains stronger than ever. He’s determined to carry that competitive edge into the upcoming season. Lions fans can count on him to bring his best effort when the team faces the Bears, just as he promised Johnson.
The bond between St. Brown and Johnson is a reminder of the camaraderie in football, even when competition puts friends on opposing sides.