As the Lions’ season comes to a crushing end with a disappointing loss to the Washington Commanders, despite having previously claimed first seed in the division, the winds of change are sweeping through Detroit. This was always billed as a make-or-break year for the team’s Super Bowl hopes, and now, with the window seemingly closing, the coaching staff is undergoing major shifts.
The biggest blow? Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, the architect behind one of the league’s most dynamic offenses, is heading out the door. His departure wasn’t unexpected—rumors swirled all season about his desire for a head coaching job—but what stings most is his destination. With the Bears parting ways with former head coach Matt Eberflus in late November of last year, Chicago wasted no time locking in Johnson with a massive five-year $65 million contract just days after the Lions’ season ended.
For Detroit, this is a gut punch. Losing Johnson was always a possibility, but seeing him land within the division makes it downright infuriating. Now, the Lions face their biggest challenge yet—finding a way to keep their offensive identity intact while ensuring this season’s disappointment doesn’t signal the end of their championship aspirations.
As if the Lions’ coaching losses weren’t bad enough, several other staff members are moving on. Former defensive line coach Terrell Williams has joined the New England Patriots as defensive coordinator, assistant quarterbacks coach J.T. Barrett is now the quarterbacks coach for the Chicago Bears and wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El is also heading to Chicago as both the Bears’ wide receivers coach and assistant head coach, joining Ben Johnson in making the move to Chicago.
In addition to the major coaching changes, defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn is now the New York Jets’ head coach—and he’s taking reinforcements. Former Tight ends coach Steve Heiden will join him as the offensive line coach while ex-passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand steps in as offensive coordinator.
However, stay optimistic. The Lions have brought in former Denver Broncos pass game coordinator John Morton as their new offensive coordinator, a hire that could pay off in a big way. Morton played a key role in the development of rookie quarterback Bo Nix, who helped lead Denver to a playoff appearance in the AFC.
With almost 30 years of coaching experience and having worked alongside big-time coaches like Sean Payton, Jim Harbaugh, and Bill Callahan, Morton will bring both knowledge and leadership to Detroit. I’m excited to see what he brings to the table in the upcoming season.
Now, for the defense: After Aaron Glenn’s departure, the Lions have promoted former linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard to defensive coordinator. Though he’s relatively new to coaching in the NFL, I’m staying optimistic about what he can bring to the defense.
Although he doesn’t have much experience coaching, Sheppard has been groomed for this role ever since he joined the Lions. I believe he has the potential to be exactly what the Lions need: aggressive, accountable, and a strong leader who won’t play favorites and will keep things grounded.
While many may argue that the Lions will continue their decades-long rebuilding streak next year, I believe they have the potential to exceed expectations. With a healthy defense and an offense packed with all pro-talent, plus Jahmyr Gibbs having had an outstanding season, they’re set up for success. We’ll likely know early on in the season next year if the Lions will live up to the hype. Still, I’m proud of them this year, as it was their first real Super Bowl run.
