Former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson responds to rumors of tension with Dan Campbell.
A recent rumor has emerged suggesting that Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell and now-former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who is now the head coach of the Chicago Bears, may have had some tensions prior to Johnson’s departure.
Radio host Neal Ruhl mentioned that there was “friction” between Campbell and Johnson, which could have led to Johnson leaving the Lions regardless of his head-coaching opportunities elsewhere.
“I received a call yesterday from a reliable source who covers the NFL,” Ruhl explained. “He shared some interesting insights about the coaching situation in Detroit, but what stood out was the Ben Johnson situation. He suggested there was potential friction between Johnson and Campbell that might have made Johnson’s departure inevitable this year.”
While this comes from a source outside traditional NFL insiders, Johnson himself addressed the rumor during an appearance on FS1’s “Breakfast Ball” and denied any issues.
“No, I’ve never heard anything like that. Dan is one of my best friends, a mentor, and I consider him family,” Johnson said.
It’s possible Johnson would deny any conflict even if there were one, but he has repeatedly expressed gratitude toward Campbell. At his Bears introductory press conference, Johnson spoke highly of Campbell, calling him more than just a colleague.
“Dan is a friend, a mentor, and a man who trusted me when he didn’t have to. I’ll forever be grateful to him,” Johnson said, according to ESPN’s Courtney Cronin.
Given there’s no solid backing to this rumor and no signs of tension during their time together, it’s best to treat it cautiously unless more credible reports surface. Regardless, Campbell and Johnson are both moving on in their respective careers.
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