Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff has nothing but praise for his former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who is leaving to take the head coaching job with the Chicago Bears. Despite the disappointment of the Lions’ early playoff exit, Goff showed true class in his parting words for Johnson.
In an interview with SiriusXM at the Pro Bowl, Goff expressed his admiration for Johnson, who helped the Lions finish in the top-five in total yards per game in each of the last three seasons. Goff is coming off one of his career-best campaigns, with 37 touchdowns and 4,629 passing yards under Johnson’s guidance.
“He’s a hell of a coach. He’s a guy that’s made a ton of difference in my career,” Goff said. “I’m obviously a big fan of his. I was joking with him, I wish he didn’t have to be in our division so I didn’t have to try to beat him twice a year.”
Goff acknowledged that the Lions’ offense may not run as smoothly without Johnson, but he expressed confidence in the team’s new offensive coordinator, John Morton, who previously served on the Lions’ staff in 2022.
“But he’s going to do a great job. Hopefully not too good, though, with us being in the division together still. But I’ll always be a fan of his and we’ll always have a good relationship,” Goff said.
Despite the disappointment of the Lions’ early playoff exit, Goff’s classy farewell to Johnson showcases his leadership and the strong bond they have built over the past few seasons. As the Lions look to bounce back next season, Goff’s positive attitude and support for his former coordinator will be crucial in maintaining the team’s momentum.
