The Lions Need to Remove All Signs of Ben Johnson in Their Offense

A Necessary Shift for the Future

The Detroit Lions have reached a pivotal moment in their offensive evolution. After an impressive run under offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, the team now finds itself at a crossroads. While Johnson’s tenure brought innovation and excitement, the time has come for the Lions to make a clean break and redefine their offensive identity. To fully embrace a new era, Detroit must remove all remnants of Johnson’s system and philosophies.

A System Built for One Mind

Ben Johnson’s offensive scheme was tailor-made to fit his vision and play-calling style. His ability to create mismatches and generate explosive plays was a defining characteristic of the Lions’ recent success. However, as the team transitions to new leadership, the remnants of Johnson’s system could create confusion rather than continuity. A new offensive coordinator must be given full freedom to implement a strategy that reflects their expertise and philosophy.

Avoiding the Pitfalls of Half-Measures

One of the biggest mistakes a franchise can make during a coaching transition is trying to blend old philosophies with new ones. Keeping parts of Johnson’s playbook while introducing new concepts could lead to inconsistency, making it difficult for players to adapt and execute effectively. The Lions must take a firm stance and wipe the slate clean, allowing their new coordinator to establish a fresh foundation without any lingering elements from the past regime.

Building an Offense for the Personnel

Detroit has a talented roster filled with playmakers who can thrive under the right system. Instead of forcing these players into a modified version of Johnson’s offense, the team should design a scheme that maximizes their strengths. Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jahmyr Gibbs need a playbook tailored to their unique skill sets, not one that feels like a patchwork of outdated strategies. A full reset will enable the team to evolve in a way that suits its current roster and long-term vision.

A Psychological Reset for Players

Beyond the X’s and O’s, completely moving away from Ben Johnson’s offense provides an important psychological benefit. Players and coaches alike need to fully commit to the new direction, and holding onto remnants of the past can create uncertainty. By eliminating all signs of Johnson’s system, the Lions send a clear message that they are fully embracing a new era—one that is built for sustained success rather than clinging to past achievements.

Conclusion: A Bold Step Forward

The Detroit Lions have an opportunity to reshape their offensive identity in a way that fosters long-term growth. While Ben Johnson played a crucial role in the team’s recent success, it is imperative that Detroit moves on completely. A clean break ensures clarity, innovation, and the freedom to build a system that best fits the team’s future aspirations. By fully removing all signs of Johnson’s offense, the Lions can take a bold step toward sustained success in the NFL.