Following an 0-8-1 start to the 2021 NFL season in Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell‘s first year as the team’s leader, offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn was relieved of his duties. Campbell took over the play-calling chores the rest of the way, but he found help in tight ends coach Ben Johnson receiving an expanded role that included being the passing game coordinator.
After Week 18, Campbell officially parted ways with Lynn and ultimately promoted Johnson to offensive coordinator. The 35-year-old Johnson worked closely with Campbell in the second half of last season, which helped make this a natural transition, especially considering Campbell’s background as an NFL tight end and positional coach. The duo also worked together in Miami from 2012-15.
