Ben Johnson Reaching Out to Dennis Allen Frustrates Lions Fans

Ben Johnson made early contact with Dennis Allen to gauge his interest.

Former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson reached out to former New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen late in the 2024 season, asking if he would consider working with a first-time NFL head coach.

Towards the end of the season, he contacted me to see if I would be interested,” Allen said during his introductory media session, according to Sports Illustrated. “I told him that I would be.”

Lions fans were upset to learn that Johnson was already laying the groundwork for a potential future role, despite still focusing on his current team’s Super Bowl aspirations.

I felt connected to Ben, even though I didn’t really know him,” said Allen. “I think with him leaning on certain people for advice about me, and me doing the same about him, we both felt it was a great fit.”

Allen stated his desire for the Bears’ defense to play aggressively and maintain a tough, physical style each week.

We want to bring the fight to the offense, not let them control the tempo. We’ll be aggressive,” Allen said. “We’ll challenge everything. We’ll play the game the right way, with toughness and physicality.