Ex-Lions OC Ben Johnson May Already Have Headaches in Chicago

The Detroit Lions are focused on their future, not the past, but it’s hard not to look back at least a little bit and see what’s going on with former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who is with the Chicago Bears. Johnson was credited with revamping Detroit’s offense to the point where it was unrecognizable from what it had been in the past. He also helped shape quarterback Jared Goff and made him have the best years of his career.

So, how is Johnson doing with his new team? It’s early, but there are some signs that he may have a few headaches working with the Bears crew, and we’re not mad about it. Sure, we’re wishing Johnson all of the best, but not at the expense of the Lions.

Johnson is entering his first year with the Bears, and he’s instructing second-year quarterback Caleb Williams, who is the crown and glory of the franchise. During an interview on Thursday, July 24, the Chicago Tribune’s Dan Wiederer spoke with 670 The Score about the state of the team, and his comments may make one think Williams is giving Johnson a bit of a headache.

You’re Not in Detroit Anymore, Ben Johnson

You know that famous line from “The Wizard of Oz,” where Dorothy says to Toto, “”Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.” Well, Johnson, you’re not in Detroit anymore. According to Wiederer, Johnson is dealing with some issues right now in the Windy City.

“I would say there is a push to make sure on a daily basis that he understands the commitment level that is required to reach the heights that both he and the team are trying to get to,” Wiederer said during the interview with The Score. “I think that’s a maturity process for a young quarterback, and it’s one that they are pushing Caleb to understand as quickly as possible, that you better understand when you go home from this building at night, that your first responsibility is preparing for the next day and understanding what’s coming from you the next day and being ready for what’s coming the next day and being in your playbook and getting all those little things down.”

Now, there are expected to be some growing pains with Johnson and his new staff. It’s all brand new, and it’s not going to be perfect in the beginning. But, it makes one wonder if he’s missing Detroit at least a little bit.

Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions is a ‘Pure Passer’

As for Detroit’s quarterback, Goff was named the No. 8 best signal-caller in the league by ESPN. In the July 2025 piece, Jeremy Fowler quotes a veteran NFC defensive coach, who says, “He’s developed into one of the game’s best pure passers. He doesn’t turn the ball over like he used to. He’s a reliable quarterback with a real arm. He’s not just a dropback passer who makes … happen. He’s become more than that.”

It’s great to see Goff getting the respect that he deserves going into the new season.