FRONT OFFICE RECKONING: Lions GM Brad Holmes Breaks Silence on Ben Johnson’s Departure to Chicago Bears in Emotional Statement
The Detroit Lions, a franchise steadily carving out a new identity in the NFL landscape, find themselves at a pivotal crossroads after the departure of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to become the head coach of the Chicago Bears. Johnson, the architect of one of the most dynamic offenses in the league, had long been coveted across the NFL for his innovative schemes, steady leadership, and rapport with players. As expected, his exit left a palpable void in Detroit’s coaching structure. But the spotlight quickly shifted from Johnson’s new journey in Chicago to the reaction in the Motor City—specifically from general manager Brad Holmes, the man largely responsible for assembling the Lions’ impressive roster and guiding the organization through a transformation built on culture, grit, and purpose. Holmes’ words were anticipated, and when he finally addressed the matter, they were nothing short of powerful.
Brad Holmes, never one to sugarcoat or dodge tough topics, began by acknowledging what Ben Johnson meant to the Lions—not only from a football standpoint but from a broader organizational perspective. Holmes credited Johnson with bringing a level of consistency, creativity, and leadership that aligned perfectly with the vision set forth by himself and head coach Dan Campbell. Johnson, known for his cerebral approach to the game, elevated Jared Goff’s career, maximized the talents of young stars like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jahmyr Gibbs, and helped turn Detroit’s offense into a juggernaut. Holmes made it clear that Johnson’s exit was not merely the loss of a play-caller but the departure of a foundational figure in Detroit’s resurgence.
Holmes’ address to the media and fanbase was marked by a balance of heartfelt respect and forward-looking resolve. He expressed pride in Johnson’s growth, stating that it was only a matter of time before a franchise with vision and courage would offer him the opportunity to lead. The Bears, one of the Lions’ oldest and fiercest rivals, ultimately made that move, setting up an intriguing dynamic for seasons to come. Holmes acknowledged the bittersweet nature of the transition, celebrating Johnson’s accomplishment while fully recognizing the competitive consequences of having such a brilliant mind now leading a division opponent. His tone wasn’t bitter; it was competitive, reflective of a front office leader who understands the ebbs and flows of the NFL coaching carousel but refuses to be caught unprepared.
What truly stood out in Holmes’ remarks was the emphasis on culture over individuals. While he lauded Johnson’s contributions, he stressed that the Lions’ ascent is not predicated on any one coach or player. Holmes repeatedly referenced the “process” and “foundation” laid over the past few years—a foundation strong enough to withstand any personnel changes. He praised Dan Campbell for building a locker room that thrives on accountability and brotherhood and affirmed his belief that whoever steps into the offensive coordinator role will inherit a system primed for continued success. Holmes even hinted that the next OC might already be in the building, a subtle nod to the internal candidates who have grown under Johnson’s leadership and who understand the team’s offensive identity better than any outsider could.
Holmes also shared insight into the internal discussions that preceded Johnson’s departure. According to the GM, Johnson was transparent about his aspirations from the beginning, never misleading the organization or creating distraction. Holmes respected that approach, noting that clarity and honesty are valued just as highly as talent within the Lions’ front office. He admitted there were hopes that Johnson might stay one more year, particularly with the team being on the cusp of a Super Bowl appearance, but Holmes never attempted to impede Johnson’s career progression. That type of open communication, Holmes said, is what sustains long-term success, even in the face of turnover.
The GM’s statement also addressed the fans. Holmes acknowledged the anxiety that comes with losing a pivotal coach, especially at a time when expectations for the Lions are as high as they’ve been in decades. He praised the fanbase for their passion and loyalty and assured them that the Lions are not taking a step back. In fact, Holmes expressed excitement about the challenge ahead. He believes the Lions are entering a new phase—one that demands even more from everyone in the organization but also presents unprecedented opportunities for growth and achievement. Holmes encouraged fans to continue trusting the vision, promising that the work behind the scenes remains as focused and ambitious as ever.
Holmes went on to detail the timeline and thought process that will guide the search for Johnson’s successor. He stated that there would be no panic or overreaction in the hiring process. Instead, the Lions will stick to their core philosophy: find the right fit culturally, not just schematically. Holmes emphasized traits like adaptability, leadership, and humility, suggesting that the team is looking for more than just a brilliant play-caller. The next offensive coordinator must be someone who connects with players, collaborates effectively with the rest of the coaching staff, and buys fully into the team-first ethos that has propelled the Lions back into national relevance.
One particularly telling moment came when Holmes addressed the possibility of promoting from within. He mentioned several current staff members by name—passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand and quarterbacks coach Mark Brunell among them—highlighting the depth of coaching talent already on the roster. Holmes praised their development and how closely they worked with Johnson, reinforcing the idea that Detroit’s offensive continuity doesn’t necessarily hinge on an outside hire. He also didn’t close the door on external candidates, stating that they would explore every possible avenue to ensure the team makes the best decision. But the message was clear: this is not a rebuild. This is not a setback. This is evolution.
Holmes’ confidence in quarterback Jared Goff also came through strongly in his statement. He made it clear that Goff is viewed as a long-term leader in Detroit and that the team believes the veteran QB has grown significantly under Johnson’s system. More importantly, Holmes noted that Goff’s improvement wasn’t just a result of Johnson’s play-calling but also due to Goff’s own resilience and work ethic. With Goff firmly entrenched as the starter and a stable offensive core returning in 2025, Holmes expressed optimism that the next coordinator will be able to hit the ground running.
Toward the end of his remarks, Holmes took a broader view, reflecting on what Johnson’s departure says about the Lions organization as a whole. He pointed out that when your coordinators are being hired as head coaches, it means you’re doing something right. It means your franchise is being respected. It means that the league is paying attention. Holmes credited the collective effort—from ownership to coaching to scouting and beyond—that has made the Lions a desirable place for talent to grow. Losing Johnson, while difficult, is also a sign of progress.
In closing, Holmes made an emotional appeal. He spoke about belief—belief in the Lions’ vision, in the people within the building, and in the city of Detroit. He recalled the dark days when hope was in short supply, when belief had to be manufactured, and when the future seemed uncertain. Those days, Holmes declared, are gone. The Lions are not chasing success anymore; they are building it, sustaining it, and now exporting it to other franchises who want a piece of their blueprint. That includes the Bears, who may have gained a bright mind in Ben Johnson but who also awakened a sleeping giant in the process.
Holmes’ statement served as both tribute and challenge—a tribute to a talented coach whose time in Detroit helped reshape a franchise, and a challenge to the rest of the NFL that the Lions aren’t going anywhere. They are no longer content with being a feel-good story or an underdog favorite. They are contenders, builders, and believers. And even in the face of change, their foundation remains unshaken. With Brad Holmes at the helm, the vision stays clear, the mission continues, and the roar out of Detroit only grows louder.
