The Detroit Lions entered the postseason with high expectations to be Super Bowl contenders. That went up in flames during the Divisional Round loss to the Washington Commanders.
Shortly after that loss, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson left town to become the head coach of the Chicago Bears. He's sticking around the NFC North and will see the Lions twice a year.
Johnson wasted no time building out his coaching staff. One person brought onto his staff was Dennis Allen, who will serve as their defensive coordinator. Johnson wanted some experience on his staff, which made Allen intriguing. He's been a head coach twice in his career with the Oakland Raiders (2012-2014) and New Orleans Saints (2022-2024).
With that experience in his back pocket, Allen plans on being a "sounding board" for Johnson per Scott Bair.
Dennis Allen has been an HC twice said he'll be a "sounding board" for Ben Johnson as a first-time head coach, but believes Johnson is ready for the opportunity.
— Scott Bair (@ScottBairNFL) January 30, 2025
Dennis Allen Wants to Be an Extra Voice for Ben Johnson
While that sounds good in theory, Johnson should be wise when taking advice from Allen. During his stops with the Raiders and Saints, the 52-year-old was 26-53 as the head coach. He had one winning season (9-8 in 2023 with Saints) but had five losing campaigns. Both teams also fired him midseason
He had eight years in between those jobs to learn and change things up. Regardless of that time, Allen didn't improve as a coach.
The Georgia native appeared to have trouble connecting with players and even stabilizing the unit he specialized in. This past season, New Orleans finished the year 30th in total defense (379.9). Even though he was fired in November, the damage was already done.
Being a "sounding board" for Johnson could spell bad news for the first-time head coach. It's a risky choice since Allen has the most experience on the Bears coaching staff currently.
Johnson is known for being a bright and innovative offensive mind, but being a head coach is a different beast. He'll need help from different voices. Allen is one of the guys and Johnson should proceed with caution.