The Detroit Lions have faced a wave of negative developments recently, including the departure of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to the Chicago Bears and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn to the New York Jets. However, not all is lost, as the franchise has received some positive news amidst these setbacks following their loss to the Washington Commanders.
For Detroit Lions fans, there’s still reason to remain optimistic. Despite the losses of Johnson and Glenn, the team’s future has promising elements.
Detroit Lions Benefit Following Glenn’s Departure
Thanks to the NFL’s Rooney Rule, implemented in November 2020, teams losing minority assistant coaches to head-coaching roles with other organizations are awarded two compensatory draft picks. These selections, given at the end of the third round after other compensatory picks, are awarded in consecutive years.
As a result of Glenn’s move, the Lions will receive extra third-round picks in 2025 and 2026. The exact pick numbers will be confirmed later this spring. Currently, OverTheCap.com projects that teams like the Minnesota Vikings (for Kirk Cousins) and Miami Dolphins (for Robert Hunt) will also earn third-round compensatory picks for losing free agents. Similarly, the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams are expected to secure compensatory selections for prior minority coaching hires.
Before Glenn’s departure, the Lions’ projected 2025 NFL Draft picks included the 28th pick in the first round, the 60th pick in the second round, single picks in Rounds 4 and 6, and two selections in Round 7. The Lions had traded their original third-round pick to the New York Jets during the 2024 draft to move up and select offensive tackle Gio Manu in the fourth round.
Glenn served as Detroit’s defensive coordinator for four seasons and was part of head coach Dan Campbell’s original staff, making him a key figure in the Lions’ coaching rebuild.
Johnson on Staying in the NFC North
As for the departing coordinators, Ben Johnson has already embraced his new role with the Chicago Bears and spoken about his decision to join their organization. When asked why he chose the Bears, Johnson emphasized his desire to remain in the NFC North.
“I wanted to stay in this division. I know this is the toughest division in football right now,” Johnson explained. “Three teams made the playoffs this year. I have tremendous respect for the coaches and players in this league, having competed against them for the last six years. Dan Campbell and Kevin O’Connell [Vikings head coach] are two guys who deserve consideration for Coach of the Year.”
Johnson added a playful jab, saying, “And to be quite frank with you, I kind of enjoyed beating [Packers coach] Matt LaFleur twice a year.”
The Bears’ offense needs significant improvement, having ranked last in yards per game (284.6) and tied for fourth-lowest in points per game (18.2) this past season. They are now looking to develop rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, the top overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Williams completed 62.5% of his passes for 3,541 yards, 20 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. He also rushed for 489 yards but endured 68 sacks—the most in the league.
