Thousands of Fans react to Ben Johnson copying the Lions’ practice routines

Lions supporters have noticed how similar the Bears’ practice appears to that of the Lions.

Ben Johnson, the Chicago Bears’ head coach, speaks during minicamp at Halas Hall.
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson speaks during minicamp at Halas Hall. / Kamil Krzaczynski -Imaging Images

In this article, Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson had his offensive linemen catch passes on the penultimate day of minicamp, which was identical to Detroit’s Friday sessions.

“I informed those guys that we only do this once a year, and it is an evaluation (laughing). “We’ll come back in training camp and during the season to see who we can trust to catch the ball or throw the ball,” Johnson stated. “I think a couple of guys on the offensive line stood out. (QB) Case Keenum may have made the catch of the day behind the back, approximately 50 yards down the field (laughing). “I believe we have some toys to work with.”

Lions fans soon rushed to social media to express their belief that Johnson should be more original and not simply replicate everything from his previous employer.

When Johnson was hired, he said, “We’re going to build this thing.” This isn’t just dropping a previous playbook on the table and starting from there. No, we’re tearing this thing down to the studs, and we’re going to build it around him first, then around the other pieces.”

One supporter said on social media, “Jesus Ben, be at least a little bit original.”

Another said, “They want to be Detroit so bad.”

Quarterback Caleb Williams expressed excitement about the opportunity to collaborate with an offensive thinker who will customize the offense to his skills.

Williams stated in January, “”Not every player is Jared Goff, but you are yourself. That factors into it. Being able to have a coach who recognizes that and wants to build around me, as well as the other players on our squad, such as the wide receivers and special wide receivers. Specialized running backs. All of these varied parts of a squad and offense, I believe, benefit both us and him. It’s wonderful that he knows and understands this because it adds to the thrill because it’s now ours.”

Here’s a taste of the online reaction to Johnson’s request that offensive linemen catch footballs at practice this week.

Last day of Bears minicamp. Some fun drills early on in practice with OL and QBs catching passes. pic.twitter.com/XNfS8zqt8Q

— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) June 5, 2025

Last day of Bears minicamp. Some fun drills early on in practice with OL and QBs catching passes. pic.twitter.com/XNfS8zqt8Q

— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) June 5, 2025

Last day of Bears minicamp. Some fun drills early on in practice with OL and QBs catching passes. pic.twitter.com/XNfS8zqt8Q

— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) June 5, 2025

“This Is A Big Loss”: Mina Kimes Says the Detroit Lions Are Having Issues Due to Frank Ragnow’s Unexpected Retirement

The news of Frank Ragnow’s retirement went viral online, and many fans were sad to see one of the greatest offensive players leave. Many NFL fans are angry about the Detroit Lions’ massive void.

Ragnow’s NFL career was outstanding. He was unquestionably among the finest, and he has nothing more to prove. After a considerable amount of time, Ragnow made the decision to retire because his injuries had overcome him. The former celebrity stated that he wished to put his family’s future and his own health first.

Frank Ragnow stated, “I’ve tried to convince myself that I’m feeling good, but I’m not, and it’s time to prioritize my health and the future of my family.”

Last season, the Detroit Lions had the NFL’s second-best offensive. Ragnow was a key factor in their success. His departure is a severe blow to the team.

Several others, including ESPN commentator Mina Kimes, provided insight into Frank Ragnow’s retirement. Kimes stated that the Lions suffered a significant defeat and a

It’s enormous. After losing Ragnow, one of the best centers in football, and starting with the offensive line, the Lions’ success over the past two years has truly been inside out, Kimes wrote.

This is a significant loss, but Kimes added, “this new offensive line is going to be under a lot of pressure, and their new offensive coordinator has to figure all of this out. It’s going to be quite a transition in Detroit.”

Over the past two seasons, the Lions have played well. But the following season will be different.

Ben Johnson of the Chicago Bears Responds to Frank Ragnow’s Retirement
Ragnow’s retirement infuriated players other than Mina Kimes. Following his retirement, Ben Johnson, the head coach of the Chicago Bears, posted a heartfelt letter.

“I’m not sure if I’ve ever encountered a more resilient player than him. He was enjoyable to be around and to coach. He improves everyone in his vicinity. It’s quite amazing how many injuries he sustained and how he managed to play through them. Ben Johnson stated, “I believe that everyone in this league had a high, high level of respect for him, regardless of whether you were in that locker room with him or you competed against him.”

Before the Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears game at Ford Field in Detroit on Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024, head coach Dan Campbell shakes hands with center Frank Ragnow (77).

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell shakes hands with center Frank Ragnow (77) warm up before the game between Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears at Ford Field in Detroit on Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024

The news of Frank Ragnow’s retirement startled a number of NFL players, commentators, and other former players. The Lions franchise and the league have suffered a great loss. Many have thanked him for his game and wished him well despite his retirement.

This essay was syndicated with permission after initially appearing on Gridiron Heroics.