Ben Johnson is confident the Detroit Lions offense won’t miss a beat in 2026 under new coordinator Drew Petzing.

Now leading the Chicago Bears, Johnson acknowledged it will be a new challenge facing Petzing twice a year within the division. The two share a close bond — Petzing even stood up in Johnson’s wedding — and Johnson believes Detroit found the right person to guide its attack.

Speaking to the Detroit Free Press, Johnson said he expects Petzing to immediately connect with players and elevate the offense through his preparation and football acumen. In his view, head coach Dan Campbell conducted a thorough search before making the hire and ultimately landed on someone whose vision aligns perfectly with the team’s direction. Johnson described the pairing as an ideal match, noting that both men’s personalities and philosophies complement one another.

Petzing’s résumé includes time working alongside respected offensive coaches such as Kevin Stefanski, Norv Turner, and Klint Kubiak, in addition to Johnson himself. Johnson emphasized that Petzing’s rise through the coaching ranks was earned through persistence and dedication rather than shortcuts. According to him, Petzing paid his dues, overcame challenges, and consistently proved himself at every stop.

With Detroit’s array of offensive playmakers, Petzing’s next task will be maximizing each player’s strengths. Johnson pointed to Petzing’s recent work in Arizona as evidence that he knows how to design schemes that highlight top talent and create opportunities for them to shine.

Although Johnson hopes the transition doesn’t make life too difficult for Chicago, he admitted he sees the hire as a strong move for Detroit and anticipates the Lions’ offense operating at a high level in the season ahead.