Ben Johnson Reaching Out to Dennis Allen Further Frustrates Lions Fans
Ben Johnson made early contact to gauge Dennis Allen’s interest.
John Maakaron
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson speaks during a press conference / David Banks
Former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson reached out to ex-New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen late in the 2024 season, to ask if the experienced coach would consider working with a first-time NFL head coach.
“At some point as the season went on, he reached out to me to see if I would be interested,” Allen said during his introductory media session, via Sports Illustrated. “I told him I would be.”
Lions fans were upset upon learning Johnson had initiated steps toward a future opportunity, despite still focusing on preparing his current team for a Super Bowl run.
“I felt like I had connections with Ben, even though I didn’t really know him,” Allen remarked. “I think both of us leaned on our mutual connections, and we felt like it would be a great fit.”
Allen emphasized his desire for the Bears’ defense to be aggressive and play a tough, physical style of football each week.
“We want to bring the fight to the offense and not allow the offense to control the tempo,” Allen stated. “We’ll be aggressive, challenge everything, play the game the right way, and bring a tough, physical brand of football.”
