Less than a week after their playoff elimination, the Lions have already lost their offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator, and defensive line coach from the 2024 season.
The offensive coordinator’s departure was especially difficult for the Lions and their fans as Ben Johnson left to become the new head coach of the Chicago Bears.
Now fans are likely to be even more frustrated by Johnson’s decision, as he has worsened the situation by taking one of the Lions’ coaches to join his staff in Chicago.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Lions wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El will be leaving to become the Bears’ assistant head coach/wide receivers coach.
Randle El had spent four seasons in his role with the Lions and achieved significant success during that time.
He helped Amon-Ra St. Brown go from a fourth-round pick to a certified superstar. This past season, he played a key role in Jameson Williams’ rare third-year breakout after two underwhelming seasons.
Now he will join a Bears team that also boasts a talented group of wide receivers.
D.J. Moore has been a steady performer throughout his career, surpassing 1,000 yards in four of seven seasons despite inconsistent quarterback play.
The Bears also feature Rome Odunze, a highly-regarded prospect from the 2024 NFL Draft who was selected ninth overall after two dominant seasons at Washington.
The Lions will face Randle El’s new receivers twice next season in an NFC North rivalry that will surely leave Detroit fired up after losing their coaches to the Bears.