It certainly looks like Ben Johnson’s comments at the NFL Scouting Combine have stirred some strong emotions within the Detroit Lions’ locker room.
While it may not have been Johnson’s intention to throw shade at Jared Goff and the Lions’ defense, the way his words were framed definitely raised some eyebrows.
His emphasis on Caleb Williams’ “off-script” abilities and how it excites him seems to indirectly highlight a perceived limitation with Goff’s game – especially given that Goff is known for being more of a pocket passer and less dynamic when plays break down.
That’s a sensitive spot for a quarterback who’s had a lot of success with the Lions, leading them to some impressive results in recent seasons.
“The out-of-structure, the off-schedule, the creation, that’s what stands out the most because that’s really the way this league’s going right now, it seems like,” Johnson said.
“As much as you want to make it pure progression, one to two to three, there’s just too much variety: the pass rush is coming down, and to have an athlete like Caleb extend the play and potentially find an explosive down the field, that’s what gets me going a little bit.
“I get excited thinking about that because I haven’t really been around that since I’ve been in the league. But I’ve been on the other side, and I have experienced it, and it’s demoralizing when you’re on the other side, and you’re watching that happen to your defense.”
Also, his comments about how “demoralizing” it is to face quarterbacks who can extend plays likely didn’t sit well with Detroit’s defense, which has been under some criticism in recent years.
It’s understandable that Lions players, especially ones like Kerby Joseph and Amik Robertson, would take offense to a remark that seemingly criticizes both their quarterback and their defense’s ability to handle mobile quarterbacks.
Johnson also made an interesting (but half-joking) comment about Goff’s inaccuracy when discussing trick-plays utilizing players such as offensive tackle Penei Sewell.
“The best part of that was (Sewell) threw a dime every single time in practice,” Johnson told Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio and Chris Simms. “It was better than some other people, Jared Goff … He was pretty darn good throwing on the run”
As for the rivalry aspect, moving to a division rival like the Bears only adds fuel to the fire.
It’s one thing for a coach to leave for a new opportunity elsewhere, but to go to a team the Lions face twice a season? That feels like a personal betrayal to some players and fans.
It’s safe to say the 2025 matchups between the Lions and Bears will be two of the more intense games of the season.
In the end, while Johnson might not have intended to take jabs at his former team, the way his words were received will surely create some added drama when the two rivals face off next season.
What are your thoughts on Johnson’s comments???
