As news broke that Ben Johnson had left the Detroit Lions, ex-Lions offensive tackle Lomas Brown couldn’t help but think back to his own time in Honolulu blue and silver.
Brown, a 11th-year veteran of the NFL, spent four seasons with the Lions from 1994 to 1997 and served as a leader on the O-line during some of the most tumultuous times in franchise history. He knows what it’s like to deal with the constant changes and regime shifts that come with being an NFL player.
In an exclusive interview with Pro Football Talk, Brown shared his thoughts on Johnson’s sudden departure and what it means for the team going forward.
“I’m not surprised,” Brown said bluntly, reflecting on the news. “Coaches get fired all the time in this league. It’s just the nature of the beast. It’s a business, and sometimes people gotta go.”
As for what led to Johnson’s ousting, Brown pointed to a mix of factors. “I think you saw some inconsistencies on the field,” he said. “I think the team struggled to find its identity. You need a sense of cohesion, a sense of purpose. When you’re constantly switching schemes and making changes, it’s hard to get that.”
Brown also believes that the constant pressure to win, combined with the intense scrutiny of the media and the fans, can take a toll on coaches. “When you’re under that much heat, it’s hard to keep everyone motivated. You gotta have that buy-in, that sense of unity. If you don’t have that, it’s tough to get the job done.”
As for what’s next for the Lions, Brown emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation, both on and off the field. “You gotta focus on the little things, like building a solid O-line, getting players that fit the system. You gotta create a winning culture, where everyone’s buying in. That’s what it’s all about.”
Brown also stressed the need for a more stable front office, someone who can provide consistency and stability during these times of change. “You gotta have a sense of continuity, someone who can make the tough decisions and stick to ’em. That’s what’s missing around here right now, in my opinion.”
Despite the challenges ahead, Brown’s message to Lions fans is one of optimism. “It’s a new era, a fresh start. You never know what can happen. Just be patient, and let the coaches and players do their thing.”