Ben Johnson Receives Boos from Lions Fans in Video During Return as Bears HC

Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson received a negative reception from Detroit Lions fans in his return to Ford Field on Sunday.

Johnson heard boos from the home crowd as he took the field for a Week 2 matchup between the NFC North foes.

Johnson served as the Lions' offensive coordinator from 2022-24 before he was hired by the Bears on Jan. 20.

He also operated as Detroit's offensive quality control coach and tight ends coach from 2019-21.

Johnson reflected on leaving the Lions for the Bears at a Wednesday press conference.

"Everything last year ran through my head and that was one of the unfortunate parts of making that decision was you were saying goodbye to a lot of friends in a great place," Johnson told reporters, via Jacob Richman of MLive.com. "My family, myself, we have a lot of strong relationships there in that community. Hopefully that continues to stay that way, as well."

It's worth noting that Johnson had an opportunity to depart Detroit during the 2024 offseason, but reportedly declined to pursue head coaching vacancies with the Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders in order to stay with the Lions.

Chicago was unable to secure a win in Johnson's debut as head coach, blowing an 11-point lead in the fourth quarter before suffering a 27-24 loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 1.

▶️ Full Vikings-Bears Recap

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Detroit also struggled without its former offensive coordinator, mustering just 13 points while averaging 3.8 yards per play during a season-opening defeat at the hands of the Green Bay Packers.

▶️ Full Lions-Packers Recap

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Now, Johnson's current and former team will both be looking to avoid an 0-2 start on Sunday.