Lions Miss Out On Ben Johnson

Nuigalway Admin

You need 5 min read

·

Post on Jan 21, 2025

29 visitor like this post

Share

Lions Miss Out on Ben Johnson: A Tale of What Might Have Been

Okay, sports fans, buckle up. Let's talk about a hypothetical scenario that's been gnawing at my brain: what if the Detroit Lions hadn't whiffed on drafting Ben Johnson? This isn't your typical "what if" piece; this is a deep dive into the fascinating world of missed opportunities, questionable draft strategies, and the agonizingly unpredictable nature of the NFL.

The 2022 Draft: A Crossroads

The 2022 NFL draft was a pivotal moment for the Lions. Fresh off a surprisingly competitive season, they had a chance to build on that momentum. And sitting there, tantalizingly close, was Ben Johnson, a young, offensive-minded coach who had already proven his mettle. But the Lions chose a different path.

The Passing of the Torch (or Lack Thereof)

Think about it: the Lions, a team desperately needing offensive innovation, passed on a coach whose reputation preceded him. Why? That's the million-dollar question. Was it a lack of foresight? A gamble on someone else? A difference in coaching philosophy? Regardless, the decision remains one of the more puzzling aspects of the Lions' recent history.

The Ripple Effect of a Missed Opportunity

This wasn't just about losing one potential coach; it was about losing the potential ripple effect of his presence. Johnson's innovative offensive schemes, his ability to connect with players, and his overall dynamism could have completely reshaped the team's identity. We’ll never know.

What Could Have Been: A Hypothetical Lions' Offensive Renaissance

Imagine a world where Ben Johnson is calling plays in Detroit. Suddenly, the Lions' offense is far more dynamic. Jared Goff, potentially rejuvenated by a more creative system, is playing at an MVP level. The running game finds a new potency, and Amon-Ra St. Brown becomes a household name even quicker.

A System Built for Success

Johnson's emphasis on modern offensive concepts – pre-snap motion, RPOs (run-pass options) – would have been a breath of fresh air. He is known for his ability to adapt his offense based on his opponent's defensive scheme, a hallmark of successful coaching in today's NFL.

The Impact on Player Development

The impact wouldn't have been limited to the starting lineup. Johnson's coaching style is known for fostering player development. Imagine the potential of young players like Jameson Williams thriving under his tutelage. We could be talking about a completely different trajectory for the team's young talent.

The Perils of Hindsight (and the NFL Draft)

Of course, hindsight is 20/20. The NFL draft is a notoriously unpredictable event. Teams make mistakes, and even the best-laid plans can go awry. But the Lions’ decision to pass on Johnson remains a particularly intriguing "what if."

The Importance of Offensive Innovation

The NFL is a league obsessed with points. Offenses are constantly evolving, pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Johnson embodies this constant evolution. His absence from the Lions' coaching staff is a stark reminder of the importance of offensive innovation in today's NFL.

Lessons Learned (or Not Learned)

Perhaps the Lions learned from this experience. Perhaps they didn’t. Only time will tell. But the story of Ben Johnson and the Detroit Lions serves as a compelling case study in the unpredictable world of professional football and the high stakes of draft-day decisions.

The Unfolding Story: Where We Are Now

While we can only speculate on what could have been, the reality is that the Lions are moving forward. They have their own coaching staff and are making their own choices. However, the decision to not hire Ben Johnson will always be a significant piece of their recent history.

The Bottom Line: A missed opportunity? Possibly.

The Lions’ decision regarding Ben Johnson continues to be a fascinating point of discussion. It underscores the risk involved in choosing a coaching staff and the profound impact a single decision can have on a franchise's direction. It’s a reminder that in the NFL, every choice, big or small, matters.

Questions for the Future

Will the Lions ever regret passing on Ben Johnson? Will the future success of other teams that hired similarly innovative offensive coaches only amplify the missed opportunity? Only time will give us the definitive answer, but the question itself remains compelling.

FAQs:

1. Could Ben Johnson's offensive scheme have truly transformed the Lions' offense, given their existing personnel? While we can't definitively say, his track record suggests a high probability. His systems are adaptable, and his ability to maximize player potential is well-documented. The Lions' personnel may have benefited greatly from his creativity.

2. Were there specific red flags about Johnson that the Lions might have overlooked? This is difficult to ascertain without insider information. It's possible internal assessments deemed other candidates a better fit for the team's culture or specific needs at the time.

3. How might Johnson's hiring have impacted the development of Jared Goff's career? A more creative and adaptable offense could have reignited Goff's career, potentially leading to a significant improvement in his performance and longevity.

4. Beyond the X's and O's, what intangible qualities might Johnson have brought to the Lions' organization? His reputation suggests a strong emphasis on player development, building team unity, and a modern, innovative approach to coaching. These intangible qualities are often crucial for sustained success.

5. Could the Lions' current coaching staff learn anything from Johnson's successes with other teams? Absolutely. Studying successful offensive schemes and coaching philosophies is crucial for continuous improvement. The Lions, like any NFL team, should always be analyzing best practices to adapt and refine their own strategies.