Breaking news: Report Suggests Ben Johnson Was ‘Mentally Disengaged’ During………

A recent report has sparked concerns about Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, suggesting that he may have been mentally disengaged during the 2023 NFL season. The revelation has raised questions about Johnson’s commitment to the team and whether his focus was elsewhere as the Lions made a deep playoff run.

Distraction from Coaching Opportunities?

Johnson has been one of the most sought-after assistant coaches in the league over the past two seasons. His success in leading the Lions’ offense, particularly with quarterback Jared Goff and a dynamic running game, made him a top candidate for multiple head coaching positions. However, after significant interest from teams like the Washington Commanders and Seattle Seahawks, Johnson ultimately chose to stay in Detroit for another season.

The report suggests that despite his decision to return, Johnson may have been distracted by the possibility of becoming a head coach. Some insiders claim that his level of engagement with the team appeared to wane as the season progressed, leading to speculation that he was mentally preparing for his next opportunity rather than being fully invested in Detroit’s playoff push.

Lions’ Offensive Struggles Late in the Season

While the Lions boasted one of the league’s top offenses for most of the year, there were moments in the postseason where questionable play-calling and execution led to their downfall. In the NFC Championship Game against the San Francisco 49ers, Detroit built a commanding 24-7 halftime lead but failed to adjust in the second half, ultimately losing 34-31. Some critics have pointed to Johnson’s conservative play-calling and lack of creativity in the second half as factors in the collapse.

If Johnson was indeed mentally disengaged, it could explain why the offense sputtered in crucial moments. The Lions relied heavily on their running game and play-action passing attack throughout the season, but when faced with adversity, the unit struggled to find a rhythm. Whether Johnson’s mindset played a role in this stagnation remains speculative, but the report has fueled discussions about how committed he truly was.

What’s Next for Johnson and the Lions?

Despite the criticism, Johnson remains one of the most respected offensive minds in the NFL. His decision to stay in Detroit for the 2024 season came as a surprise to many, as he turned down multiple head coaching interviews to remain with the Lions. Head coach Dan Campbell has publicly expressed confidence in Johnson, believing he is still the right person to lead the offense.

However, if there is any truth to the report that Johnson was not fully engaged, the Lions will need to ensure that his focus remains on maximizing the team’s potential. With Detroit entering the 2024 season as a legitimate Super Bowl contender, any hint of disengagement could be costly.

For now, Johnson has an opportunity to silence any doubts by leading another strong offensive campaign. But if similar concerns arise in the upcoming season, his long-term future in Detroit may come into question once again.