Notes: Insiders Think Ben Johnson Might 'Get It Worse' Than Matthew Stafford

Lions insider believes Ben Johnson might face more harsh reception than Stafford.

Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson. / David Banks-Imagn Images

The Detroit Lions were forced to find a new offensive coordinator after Ben Johnson departed to become the head coach of the Chicago Bears.

Johnson left after winning Assistant Coach of the Year, and was commonly known as one of the architects of Detroit's high-powered offense. However, his decision to leave to coach the division rival Bears has undoubtedly received a sour reception from a portion of the Lions fanbase.

Angered fans won't have to wait long for his first trip back to Ford Field, as Johnson and the Bears are scheduled to visit in Week 2.

Lions fans weren't shy in one of the more recent homecomings, as Matthew Stafford dealt with boos all throughout the playoff meeting between the Lions and the Rams during the 2023 season.

As a result, MLive Lions insider Kory Woods believes that the reception that Johnson receives in his return to Ford Field may be even more harsh.

"I think Ben might get it worse," Woods said during a recent episode of the 'Dungeon of Doom' podcast. "I mean, with Stafford, there is a segment of fans that were happy just so he could get himself a ring to start over. With Ben, it's not just the fact that he left, everyone knew he was leaving. (It was) how quickly he left, and the fact that he went to a division rival."

Here is a collection of Detroit Lions headlines on May 22.

1.) Sports Illustrated predicts that second-round offensive lineman Tate Ratledge will be the Lions' best rookie in 2025.

2.) The Michigan Panthers will be honoring current Lions kicker Jake Bates, who played last spring for the team before signing with Detroit. The first 2,000 fans through the gates for the team's game at Ford Field May 31 will receive a bobblehead in Bates' likeness.

3.) Detroit Football Network explored the impact that veteran Avonte Maddox could have as a backup safety behind Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch.

4.) Fantasy Sports OnSI listed Jahmyr Gibbs amongst its top-three fantasy running back selections for 'best ball' leagues.