The Detroit Lions are dealing with a major shake-up as offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has officially left the team to become the new head coach of the Chicago Bears. This announcement comes just two days after the Lions’ record-breaking 15-2 season ended in disappointment with a loss to the Washington Commanders in the NFC Divisional Round at Ford Field.
Ben Johnson Joins a Division Rival
Johnson, regarded as one of the league’s brightest offensive minds, now takes the reins of the Bears, one of the Lions’ NFC North rivals. He steps in as the permanent replacement for Matt Eberflus, who was fired midseason after the Bears’ struggles culminated in a 5-12 record. Interim head coach Thomas Brown finished the season but did not earn the full-time job. Johnson will now work closely with quarterback Caleb Williams, the Bears’ highly touted young star, as he begins his tenure in Chicago.
Lions Fans React with Outrage
The news has not been well-received by Lions fans, who are still reeling from their team’s playoff exit and decades of Super Bowl frustration. Many have taken to social media to express their frustration, with accusations that Johnson may have been distracted by his impending move to Chicago during Detroit’s playoff preparations.
Some fans speculated that Johnson was already assembling his coaching staff while the Lions were still in the postseason. Others accused him of “checking out” before the Commanders game, suggesting his focus was on his future rather than the team’s success.
Here’s a snapshot of fan reactions:
– **@RGA_418**: “Seriously, did Dan [Campbell] and him have a fallout? To go to the Bears is messed up.”
– **@laflava_flave**: “How was he busy preparing a coaching staff when he was supposed to be focusing on playoff games?”
– **@mpsharp4**: “Don’t let the door hit you on the way out.”
– **@Blaherhagen1**: “Detroit vs. everybody. Sorry, Ben. Wishing you nothing but the worst on the field.”
– **@Mulvi3**: “Checked out before the Commanders game and joins a division rival? Good riddance.”
### A Bittersweet End to Johnson’s Detroit Tenure
Johnson’s move to Chicago marks a bitter end to what was otherwise an impressive stint in Detroit. After emerging as one of the NFL’s most promising offensive minds, he was a top candidate for multiple head coaching positions last offseason. Johnson famously turned down an offer from the Washington Commanders in order to stay with the Lions for another year, helping guide them to the most successful regular season in franchise history.
Ironically, it was the Commanders who ended Johnson’s tenure in Detroit, defeating the Lions at Ford Field to advance in the playoffs.
### Uncertain Future for Detroit
Lions fans now face the uncertainty of finding a replacement for Johnson and potential fallout if he lures other Detroit assistants to Chicago. The disappointment of a promising season falling short, coupled with a high-profile departure to a divisional rival, has left many fans feeling betrayed and concerned about the team’s trajectory.
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