Lions Enjoy Watching Ben Johnson Sweat as Offseason Starts
The Detroit Lions are gearing up for an exciting 2026 NFL season, despite not playing in the Super Bowl. Recent moves in the NFC North have positioned the Lions well as they head into the offseason.
Lions Benefit from NFC North Changes
Key changes among their rivals have raised the optimism around Detroit. The Green Bay Packers experienced significant losses, including defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley moving to the Miami Dolphins, and QB coach Sean Mannion leaving for the Philadelphia Eagles. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears have seen Eric Bieniemy depart for the Kansas City Chiefs.
In an unexpected turn of events, the Minnesota Vikings dismissed their General Manager shortly after the end of their season. In contrast, the Lions have made impressive coaching hires, bringing in Mike Kafka and Drew Petzing, which has left fans feeling positive about the upcoming offseason.
New Developments for Ben Johnson and the Lions
On Friday, NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that Bears offensive coordinator Declan Doyle has accepted an OC position with the Baltimore Ravens. This situation puts pressure on Lions’ offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who now must find a suitable replacement during this critical coaching cycle.
- Declan Doyle leaves Chicago for Baltimore Ravens.
- Ben Johnson tasked with finding a new coach late in the offseason.
Despite the timing challenges, Johnson remains the primary playcaller for the Lions. His experience and leadership will be crucial as the Lions aim to strengthen their offense. Doyle’s contributions during the previous season, particularly in game planning and developing quarterbacks, are acknowledged as significant.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
Lions fans are beginning to feel hopeful. With the Bears’ struggles last season, where they achieved seven come-from-behind wins, the door is open for Detroit to potentially rise from the bottom to the top of the NFC North.
- John Morton is no longer with the team.
- New hires include offensive experts Petzing and Kafka.
The Lions possess the talent on both sides of the ball. If their offense performs to its potential and the defense remains healthy, the upcoming season could bring significant success. Fans are poised to watch Johnson’s next moves closely as the Lions build towards a promising 2026 campaign.
Conclusion
With strong offseason strategies and the competition’s shake-up, the Detroit Lions are positioning themselves as contenders for the NFC North. The focus now is on how swiftly Ben Johnson can adapt and fill the coaching gaps. The future looks brighter for the Lions and their supporters, who eagerly await the forthcoming challenges and triumphs.
