Ben Johnson opened up the bag of tricks once again in the Detroit Lions Week 16 win over the Chicago Bears. The “stumblerooski” worked like a charm, with Jared Goff hitting Sam LaPorta for a touchdown pass after Goff and RB Jahmyr Gibbs feigned a fumbled handoff exchange.
In his weekly press briefing, the Lions offensive coordinator was quick to share credit with three of his assistants. Johnson specifically noted assistant quarterbacks coach J.T. Barrett, assistant OL coach Steve Oliver and assistant receivers coach Seth Ryan for their creative input in devising all the Lions “special” offensive plays that have become a trademark staple of Johnson’s Detroit offense.
“I think we’ve got position coaches that are future coordinators and future head coaches, and I think we’ve got some really good young coaches that are going to be ready to be position coaches sooner rather than later,” Johnson said. He then listed names that Lions fans should probably be more aware of going forward if they didn’t know them already.
“Seth Ryan, Steve Oliver and J.T. Barrett, they’ve been in charge of our specials (trick plays) for not just this year, but for the last few years, and there’s a reason why we have probably a little higher success rate for those special plays, and they’re a big reason why,” Johnson said. “They have a ton of creativity. They bring a lot of ideas to the table, so I really wanted to start off here today by giving them a shoutout. They’ve been doing a great job here for the last three years, and they’re certainly deserving of more responsibility, not only here, but maybe elsewhere as well, wherever that opportunity unfolds.”
It’s that last statement that raises eyebrows. The Lions would have to replace Johnson if he leaves, and the most likely candidates are internal ones — namely the trio Johnson listed.
Of course, Johnson could be more inclined to take Barrett, Oliver and Ryan with him as his offensive staff on another team. Barrett, especially, is seen as a rising coaching star around the league and figures to get looks as an offensive coordinator or passing game coordinator this offseason. Sticking with the Lions, or jumping with Johnson to become his offensive coordinator, appears to be a viable option for Barrett.
Ben Johnson, the new head coach of the Detroit Lions, is already making waves in the coaching world by putting a spotlight on his assistants who have the potential for higher coaching ceilings.
In a recent press conference, Johnson praised his assistant coaches for their dedication, hard work, and coaching acumen. He highlighted their individual strengths and expertise, noting that they have the potential to excel in their coaching careers and possibly even become head coaches in the future.
Johnson’s decision to highlight his assistants’ potential is a refreshing change from the typical narrative in the NFL, where head coaches often take all the credit for their team’s success. By shining a spotlight on his assistants, Johnson is not only recognizing their contributions but also setting a positive example for other head coaches to follow.
It’s clear that Johnson values the talent and potential of his coaching staff, and by giving them the recognition they deserve, he is fostering a culture of collaboration, growth, and success within the Lions organization. As the season progresses, it will be exciting to see how these assistants continue to develop and make their mark on the league.
Tags:
Ben Johnson, Detroit Lions, coaching, assistant coaches, higher coaching ceilings, NFL, football, career development, coaching staff, leadership, mentorship, professional growth, sports, team management.
#Ben #Johnson #spotlights #Lions #assistants #higher #coaching #ceilings
