The Detroit Lions lost a major piece of their recent success when Ben Johnson left the organization to become head coach of the Chicago Bears, joining Detroit’s NFC North rival in one of the offseason’s most talked-about moves. Despite the rivalry and fan backlash, Lions head coach Dan Campbell made it clear that his friendship with Johnson remains strong.
Johnson had multiple opportunities to leave Detroit following the 2023 season, with reported interest from the Washington Commanders and Seattle Seahawks. He ultimately chose to return for another year, helping the Lions continue their offensive rise. After the 2024 campaign, however, Johnson accepted Chicago’s offer, drawn in part by the opportunity to work with No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams at quarterback.
Lions vs. Bears: A Shift in NFC North Power
Entering the 2025 season, the Lions were widely viewed as NFC North favorites, while the Bears were considered underdogs. Detroit backed that up early, defeating Chicago convincingly in their first matchup—though Johnson was met with boos from Lions fans upon his return to Ford Field.
By season’s end, the narrative flipped. Detroit was eliminated from playoff contention, while Chicago captured the NFC North title, leaving the Lions playing only for pride in the final week of the regular season.
Dan Campbell Addresses Ben Johnson Relationship
Despite Johnson becoming a division rival and a polarizing figure in Detroit, Campbell emphasized that their personal relationship hasn’t changed.
“Every time we play, we play to win whoever is across from us,” Campbell said. “He is still my friend and I love him dearly, but we’re going to be playing him twice a year.”
Jared Goff Defends Former Offensive Coordinator
Lions quarterback Jared Goff also voiced his displeasure with fans booing Johnson earlier in the season.
“Yeah… I didn’t like that,” Goff said. “He just did a lot for us here. I don’t know if he deserved that.”
Bears Surge, Lions Struggle Without Johnson
After starting the season 0–2, the Bears won 11 of their next 14 games to secure the division crown. Johnson quickly emerged as a Coach of the Year candidate, while Detroit’s offense regressed without him.
Campbell assumed play-calling duties after John Morton struggled in the offensive coordinator role, but results were inconsistent. The Lions currently sit last in the NFC North at 8–8, fueling criticism of Campbell and raising questions about Detroit’s offseason direction.
What’s Next for Lions and Bears
Replacing Johnson is expected to be a top priority for Detroit this offseason as the team looks to rebound in 2026.
Meanwhile, the Bears enter the postseason hosting a playoff game, with a potential matchup against the Green Bay Packers, San Francisco 49ers, or Los Angeles Rams. Chicago narrowly missed out on the NFC’s No. 1 seed after a late loss to San Francisco.
