Mary Sheffield Responds To Stephen A. Smith
On Monday ESPN First Take analysist Stephen A. Smith spoke to the possibility of the Detroit Lions going to the Super Bowl. During the show, his co-host Molly Qerim asked,…
On Monday ESPN First Take analysist Stephen A. Smith spoke to the possibility of the Detroit Lions going to the Super Bowl. During the show, his co-host Molly Qerim asked, what is the bigger story line, Lamar Jackson going to the Super Bowl or the Detroit Lions. Stephen A. Smith said the Detroit Lions, but not for reason you think.
Smith began his reasoning by saying "Detroit – phenomenal fanbase. Great city. Been through a lot, the downtown area? Big time. The stadium? Big time. But you go to other outskirts of the Detroit area, and it looks like a damn desert town. I mean, I'm sitting here wondering how the hell people are making money. It looks like a desert town. Smith then goes on to say, "What the hell is going on in this city?' And then you see the Detroit Lions and sort of reviving – they were on a respirator for crying out loud, just as a city. And what this franchise has done for that city and state?" These statements obviously rubbed Detroiters the wrong way including City Council President Mary Sheffield.
Mary Sheffield Responds To Stephen A. Smith
Sheffield took to social media to address Smith word by saying "Stephen Smith what we need you to do is not tell our story because clearly you don't understand the true store of Detroit. Number one, the growth and development that has been happening in our city did not just start this year when the Lions made it to the playoffs. This redevelopment and regrowth has been taking place for almost ten years now."
Sheffield then explain that the negative perception of Detroit by people with platforms is what is keeping a dark cloud of the city, but true Detroiters and true Detroit based business are keeping the city afloat and that this the story of Detroit that needs to be spread. The true definition of grit and grind comes from the people in this city and that is what the Lions are representing.
Smith did apologize on air, during First Take that same day and he did clarify his statements saying his intent was not to insult the people of Detroit and that he has nothing but love for the city.
7 Teams That Could Steal Away Detroit Lions OC Ben Johnson
Please don't leave us, Ben Johnson. Sure, you're going to get incredible offers from probably more than one NFL team. You're going to have teams begging at your feet to head up their programs. But, we love you here at the Detroit Lions, and that has to count for something. It does count for something, but I also can't image how difficult it would be for Johnson to turn down the opportunity of a lifetime to stay offensive coordinator for another season. But, stranger things have happened. I mean, maybe being head coach is just a bit too much pressure right now. That said, there are currently a whopping seven teams that could steal away Detroit Lions OC Ben Johnson.
Before we get into the list, let's talk about the fact that Johnson is really one of the most sought-after coaches right now. In fact, Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network recently wrote an article naming some up-and-coming coaching candidates, and not only did he including Johnson, but he said that Johnson was possibly the "most coveted candidate in this hiring cycle." It's kind of heartbreaking, because the Lions haven't been good since, well, ever. Now, Johnson and our defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn could reportedly both be finding head coaching jobs elsewhere. I'm terrified of what this could mean to the franchise. Regarding Johnson and his time in Detroit, Pelissero stated, "Johnson coached quarterbacks, receivers and tight ends before becoming Detroit’s offensive coordinator in 2022, giving him a good feel for the whole picture. And he should be even more prepared to run his own show after another year as OC. Many league sources consider Johnson the most coveted candidate in this hiring cycle."
So, where will Johnson go? Read on for a list of seven teams that have all reportedly expressed major interest in him. Six of these teams have already requested interviews. Also below, listen to the latest episode of my podcast, "The Squad with Anne Erickson," where we preview what's ahead in the playoffs for the Lions. Reach out to me to talk football here.
7 Teams That Could Steal Away Detroit Lions OC Ben Johnson:
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders have reportedly already scheduled an interview with Ben Johnson. This is where a lot of experts think he'll end up. But, six other teams are interested, so you never know. Read on for the other suiters.
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers have made no secret of the fact that Ben Johnson is their No. 1 pick. But, is the feeling mutual? It's like dating someone. Both parties have to be smitten. Time will tell if Johnson is as in love with the Panthers as they are with him. The Panthers have already schedule an interview with him, too.
Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons are looking hard for a new coach, and they're supposedly very interested in Ben Johnson. Like the other teams on this list, they're interviewing a lot of people, including Bill Belichick and Jim Harbaugh. But, they've put in an interview request.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers would be a good fit with Ben Johnson. Many experts think he'll end up here or with the Commanders. That said, the Chargers also seem very, very interested in Jim Harbaugh. They've put in an interview request.
Seattle Seahawks
According to the NFL Network, the Seattle Seahawks finally put in their formal interview request for Ben Johnson, joining the many other teams who have already done this. The Pete Carroll split seemed a bit spontaneous, so it's perhaps taking them longer to look at coaching candidates. Just a guess from your girl here.
Tennessee Titans
As with all the teams on this list, the Tennessee Titans need some help. They've put in a request to interview Ben Johnson, and a lot of experts think this would also be an appealing gig for him.
Las Vegas Raiders
So far, the Las Vegas Raiders are the only team on this list that hasn't put in a formal request to interview Ben Johnson. But, they probably will. So, will he be interested? Maybe. Who wouldn't want to work in Vegas?
