Lions QB Jared Goff makes something clear about Ben Johnson’s departure ahead of 2025 NFL season

The Detroit Lions were one of the surprise contenders of last NFL season, with Jared Goff leading the charge on the field. This offseason, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson departed to become the head coach of the Chicago Bears. Despite the change, the QB made it clear that the team’s ambition to keep progressing remains firmly in place.

Coaching staff changes can often lead to setbacks — or spark improvement in player performance. With John Morton stepping in as Dan Campbell’s new offensive coordinator, all eyes will be on Week 1 to see whether that change truly makes an impact.

As teams begin making their first moves in preparation for the new season, Jared Goff was asked by the media whether Ben Johnson’s departure could negatively impact the team. The former Rams quarterback quickly dismissed that notion.

“No, of course not, we want to take a step forward. We’re trying to get better, learn from our mistakes last year, and try to get better off them,” the talented QB firmly stated.

“I don’t think that would have been any different if you’re returning with the same offense,” Goff also added. “You always add some wrinkles, but certainly he has some flavor on the offense and is doing a good job. . . . Some of it’s changing, some of it’s staying the same. The biggest challenge is just getting on the same page with what we like, and we’re working through that.”

Goff’s thoughts on John Morton

Ben Johnson’s departure to the Bears forced the front office to act quickly in finding a replacement, and the one who ultimately earned the opportunity was John Morton, stepping into a new chapter in his coaching career.

Having served as the pass game coordinator for the Denver Broncos during the 2023–24 season, Morton has already begun settling into his new role in Detroit. Quarterback Jared Goff has shared his initial impressions of working with the new offensive coordinator.

“It’s new stuff, it’s new communication, it’s different ways he likes to do things and learning each other, and it’s a fun challenge,” he said.