Full Breakdown
Ben Johnson’s Mobility Quip Leads to Light-hearted Back-and-Forth with Jared Goff
By Drooid · · How we work
The Exchange Over Goff’s Mobility
After the Bears beat the Eagles with third-string quarterback Case Keenum, head coach Ben Johnson was asked how he plans for a quarterback with a different skill set. Johnson replied, “Well I've got a little history with that, of calling plays for someone not so mobile. Now I don't have a history with someone that is not a No. 1 pick though. That was apparently a big deal.” The comment was read as a jab at Lions quarterback Jared Goff, whose mobility has often been discussed.
Prior Remarks and Context
Johnson has faced similar scrutiny before. In 2025 he compared Goff’s mobility to rookie Caleb Williams, later insisting the remark was not directed at Goff. Goff has responded that Johnson’s observations were accurate but not intended as an insult, and both have treated the exchange as good-natured banter.
Official Statements & Responses
Johnson clarified that his recent remark was aimed at the contrast between the Bears’ quarterback situation and the Lions’ No. 1-overall pick, not at Goff personally. Goff said Johnson called him the morning after the interview and “it means nothing.” He added the two might trade light-hearted barbs in the future, emphasizing the lack of ill intent.
Data & Statistics
Through the first three games of the 2026 season, Goff has logged 802 passing yards, eight touchdowns and zero interceptions. Detroit sits at 2-1, its sole loss coming against the Bills in Week 2. The Lions are slated to meet the Carolina Panthers on Sunday Night Football later this month.
What’s Next
The Lions’ primetime matchup against the Panthers will be the first test of the offense after the media exchange. Observers will watch to see whether the banter influences on-field dynamics or remains a peripheral storyline.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Well I've got a little history with that, of calling plays for someone not so mobile. Now I don't have a history with someone that is not a No. 1 pick though. That was apparently a big deal,” — Ben Johnson, Bears head coach
- “It was not a shot at Jared,” — Ben Johnson, Bears head coach
- “He called me this morning and was like, ‘Dude, you know that means nothing,’” — Jared Goff