Amon-Ra St. Brown Denies Distraction Rumors as Ben Johnson Discloses Private Exchange
In the world of professional football, where every move on and off the field is scrutinized, Detroit Lions star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown has addressed speculation regarding his focus and the team’s dynamic in the wake of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s departure to the Chicago Bears. As the Lions’ playoff run ended earlier than anticipated, whispers of distractions and internal turmoil began to surface, but St. Brown has put those rumors to rest with candid revelations about his relationship with Johnson and their lighthearted banter.
A Strong Bond Built in Detroit
Amon-Ra St. Brown, drafted by the Detroit Lions in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, has rapidly become one of the most consistent and dynamic wide receivers in the league. Under the guidance of Ben Johnson—who initially served as the Lions’ passing game coordinator before being promoted to offensive coordinator in 2022—St. Brown’s talents were maximized. His precision in route running, ability to create separation, and tenacity on contested catches transformed him into a cornerstone of the Lions’ offense.
The numbers speak volumes about their partnership. After a solid rookie campaign in which St. Brown recorded 912 receiving yards, he exploded in the following seasons, becoming a consistent 1,000-yard receiver with double-digit touchdowns. Johnson’s offensive schemes emphasized St. Brown’s versatility, deploying him both in the slot and as an outside threat. Their collaboration turned the Lions into one of the league’s most exciting offenses, drawing praise from analysts and opponents alike.
Johnson’s Move to the Chicago Bears
When Ben Johnson accepted the head coaching position with the Chicago Bears in January 2025, it marked a pivotal moment for both him and the Lions. Johnson’s promotion was well-earned after his innovative play-calling revitalized Detroit’s offense, but it also meant that he would now be leading a division rival. The shift inevitably introduced a new layer of intrigue to the Lions-Bears rivalry, as Johnson’s intimate knowledge of Detroit’s offensive strengths and weaknesses would undoubtedly come into play.
For St. Brown, Johnson’s departure was bittersweet. On one hand, it marked the end of a fruitful partnership; on the other, it was a celebration of Johnson’s growth as a coach. St. Brown’s perspective on the matter became clearer during an episode of his podcast, co-hosted with his brother, Equanimeous St. Brown, where he shared details of their private conversations.
The Playful Exchange Between Mentor and Protégé
St. Brown recounted the moment he congratulated Johnson on his new role, injecting some competitive banter into the exchange. “I told him, ‘Two times a year, Ben, we’re going to f— you up,’” St. Brown said, laughing. Johnson, not one to back down, replied in kind: “I’m going to f— you up.”
The exchange, while humorous, speaks to the mutual respect and camaraderie between the two. “I know all the plays he likes to run,” St. Brown added, teasingly. “I know all his tendencies, and we were going back and forth messing around.”
Their lighthearted interaction underscores the unique dynamics in the NFL, where professional rivalries coexist with personal friendships. For fans, the prospect of seeing St. Brown and Johnson face off twice a year adds another layer of excitement to an already fierce division rivalry.
Addressing the Rumors of Distraction
In the weeks following the Lions’ playoff exit, criticism arose from some fans and pundits who questioned whether Ben Johnson’s focus had been compromised by his interviews for head coaching positions during Detroit’s bye week. These murmurs suggested that the Lions’ early playoff exit may have been a result of distracted preparation by key figures.
St. Brown firmly rejected these claims. “Everyone on Twitter—the Lions fans—f—ing hating him, talking about, ‘He didn’t prepare for this playoff game. He was taking interviews on the bye week.’ Trust me. I know Ben. He was as locked in as can be for that game,” St. Brown said. His defense of Johnson reflects the trust and admiration he has for his former coach, emphasizing that professionalism and preparation were never in question.
Lions’ Expectations Without Johnson
The departure of Ben Johnson undoubtedly leaves a void in Detroit’s coaching staff. His successor will face the challenge of maintaining the offensive momentum that Johnson established while also forging a new identity for the team. St. Brown’s confidence and leadership will be critical during this transition period.
St. Brown’s comments on the podcast also revealed his mindset heading into the 2025 season. Despite the changes, his focus remains unwavering. “I’m happy for him. I love Ben, his family, his kids, his wife—they’re amazing people,” he said. “But when we’re on the field, it’s war. That’s just how it is.”
Rivalry Renewed
The Lions and Bears will meet twice during the regular season, and these matchups will be closely watched, not only because of their playoff implications but also due to the personal stakes involved. For Johnson, the games will be an opportunity to prove himself as a head coach while outmaneuvering his former team. For St. Brown, it will be a chance to demonstrate that the Lions’ success wasn’t solely dependent on Johnson’s play-calling.
These games also carry broader significance for the NFC North. With teams like the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings undergoing their own transitions, the Lions and Bears find themselves in prime positions to vie for the division crown. The added narrative of Johnson versus Detroit—with St. Brown leading the charge—only heightens the drama.
St. Brown’s Leadership Role
As one of the Lions’ key leaders, Amon-Ra St. Brown recognizes the importance of setting the tone for the team. His performance on the field and his vocal presence in the locker room will be vital as Detroit navigates this new chapter. St. Brown’s ability to maintain focus amidst external distractions—whether it’s coaching changes, media speculation, or heightened expectations—is a testament to his maturity and professionalism.
“We’ve got a great group of guys here,” St. Brown said. “I believe in our team, in our coaches, and in what we’re building. We’re not letting anything slow us down.” His words reflect a determination to keep the Lions’ momentum alive and ensure that the team remains a contender in the NFC.
Conclusion
The story of Amon-Ra St. Brown and Ben Johnson offers a glimpse into the complex and deeply human relationships that underpin professional sports. While their paths have diverged, their mutual respect and competitive spirit remain evident. As the 2025 NFL season approaches, their playful banter and shared history will add intrigue to every Lions-Bears matchup, captivating fans and analysts alike.
For St. Brown, the focus remains on the future. His denial of distraction rumors, coupled with his unwavering belief in his team, sets the stage for a season defined by resilience and determination. Whether facing off against Johnson’s Bears or leading the Lions in pursuit of postseason success, St. Brown’s commitment to excellence ensures that Detroit’s star receiver will continue to shine.