Detroit Lions enthusiasts are grappling with the recent departure of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who accepted the head coaching position with the Chicago Bears. This move, coming on the heels of a disappointing playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, has been a significant blow to the team and its fanbase.

Former Lions offensive tackle Lomas Brown, speaking on OutKick's "Don't @ Me with Dan Dakich," described the sentiment among fans as a combination of disappointment and anger, particularly due to Johnson joining a division rival. Brown stated, "It's another body blow… All of them on talk radio, that was the subject yesterday, Ben Johnson leaving."

He emphasized the rivalry between the Lions and Bears, highlighting the difficulty of facing Johnson twice a year. The fact that Johnson accepted the position despite the existing close relationship with Lions head coach Dan Campbell added to the fans' frustration. Brown noted, "A lot of sentiment before he took the job was that Ben wouldn’t take that job because he knew he would have to go up against his good friend Dan Campbell twice a year."

The loss of Johnson is compounded by the potential departure of other key assistants, including defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who has interviewed with the New York Jets, and offensive line coach Hank Fraley, who is being considered for the Seattle Seahawks' offensive coordinator role. Brown lamented, "It’s other assistants that we’re going to lose off this team. That’s why this was the year for us to get it done."

Brown, a seven-time Pro Bowler who spent 11 seasons with the Lions, believes the timing of these departures exacerbates the sting of the playoff loss. He expressed concern that the loss of key coaching staff could hinder the team's progress in the upcoming season.

This period of uncertainty and transition poses a significant challenge for the Lions as they look to build on the promise shown during the past season.