Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, has become one of the most talked-about figures in the NFL coaching landscape. Despite numerous head coaching offers, Johnson has chosen to remain with the Lions, a decision that has intrigued fans and analysts alike. This article delves into the reasons behind his commitment, his career trajectory, and what this means for the future of the Detroit Lions.
The Rise of Ben Johnson
Ben Johnson’s journey with the Detroit Lions began in 2019 when he was hired as an offensive quality control coach. His talent and dedication quickly became evident, leading to his promotion to tight ends coach in 2020. When Dan Campbell took over as head coach in 2021, Johnson was promoted to pass game coordinator, a role in which he excelled, helping to transform the Lions’ offense.
Johnson’s Impact on the Lions’ Offense
Under Johnson’s leadership, the Lions’ offense has flourished. In the 2022 season, he was promoted to offensive coordinator, and the results were immediate. The Lions finished the season with one of the top offenses in the league, setting a franchise record with eight games scoring over 30 points. Johnson’s innovative play-calling and ability to maximize the talents of players like quarterback Jared Goff have been key factors in this success.
Statistical Achievements
Since Johnson took over as offensive coordinator, the Lions have consistently ranked among the top teams in various offensive metrics. In the 2023 season, they finished third in total offense and second in passing yards. These achievements have not gone unnoticed, with Johnson being named a finalist for the Associated Press Assistant Coach of the Year award.
Why Johnson Chose to Stay
Despite his success and the numerous head coaching offers he received, Johnson decided to stay with the Lions. This decision was influenced by several factors, including his strong relationship with head coach Dan Campbell and his belief in the direction of the organization. Johnson has often spoken about the positive atmosphere within the team and his desire to be part of building a winning culture in Detroit.
Family and Personal Considerations
Johnson’s decision was also influenced by personal considerations. After discussing the opportunities with his family, he felt that staying in Detroit was the best choice for both his career and personal life. He didn’t want to disrupt the positive environment he had helped create and believed that there was still unfinished business with the Lions.
“I love Dan Campbell, I’ve known him for a long time. I believe in the direction of this organization. And so that truly was the biggest drawing point for me to come back, was what we have here, what we’re building here, is something I want to be a part of.”
Ben Johnson
The Future of the Detroit Lions
With Johnson at the helm of the offense, the future looks bright for the Detroit Lions. The team has made significant strides under his leadership, and there is a strong sense of optimism about what they can achieve in the coming seasons. Johnson’s commitment to the team has also had a positive impact on the players, who appreciate his dedication and vision.
Building a Winning Culture
One of Johnson’s primary goals is to build a winning culture in Detroit. This involves not only improving the team’s performance on the field but also fostering a positive and supportive environment off the field. Johnson’s approach has resonated with the players, who have bought into his vision and are committed to working together to achieve their goals.
Conclusion
Ben Johnson’s decision to stay with the Detroit Lions is a testament to his belief in the team’s potential and his commitment to building something special in Detroit. His innovative play-calling and ability to maximize the talents of his players have already had a significant impact, and there is no doubt that he will continue to play a crucial role in the team’s future success. For Lions fans, Johnson’s commitment is a reason to be optimistic about what lies ahead.
