The Chicago Bears’ recent hiring of former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as their new head coach has taken an unexpected turn. Johnson, who was announced as the Bears’ head coach on January 20, has been accused of quitting on the Lions during their playoff run.
The controversy stems from a revelation by new Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, who stated that Johnson had contacted him late in the season to gauge his interest in joining the Bears’ staff. This has led many Lions fans to express their outrage and disappointment on social media.
“Lions had no chance of reaching the SB. Ben was checked out weeks before,” one fan commented. Another added, “Ben Johnson had already quit on his team. How pathetic.”
Despite the backlash, it’s worth noting that the Lions’ offense performed impressively in their playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, accounting for 521 total yards and four touchdowns.