Detroit Lions Offensive Lineman Labels Ben Johnson As 'Uppity'

Among all the changes this offseason for the Detroit Lions, one comment from veteran offensive lineman Graham Glasgow has gotten people talking. In a recent interview, Glasgow described former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as “a little bit more uppity” compared to his replacement, noting, “He was always getting after it.”

This choice of words pulls back the curtain on Johnson’s intense energy and hands-on coaching approach. Johnson was never content to stand by and let things play out—he was vocal, passionate, and constantly pushing the pace at practice. Players saw firsthand how his enthusiasm filtered into every detail of the offense, creating an environment that buzzed with urgency.

Did Detroit Lions Graham Glasgow Mean Disrespect?

While “uppity” can sometimes sound critical, in this context, it captures Johnson’s readiness to challenge the team and drive standards higher. His brand of high-energy leadership demanded focus from players on every snap. For veterans like Glasgow, Johnson’s style wasn’t just noticeable—it was part of what made the Lions go. His presence set a tone: you had to be switched on, mentally sharp, and willing to match his intensity.

This lingering impression of Johnson’s “uppity” energy helps explain the offensive identity Detroit established during his time—dynamic, always-on, and never lacking for motivation.

Ben Johnson’s two-year tenure as the Lions’ offensive coordinator was nothing short of transformational for the franchise. Known for his aggressive playcalling, Johnson had a knack for designing plays that maximized the talents of his offensive unit. His schemes brought out the best in quarterback Jared Goff and incorporated dynamic contributions from skill players like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams.

However, Johnson’s high-energy style also placed significant pressure on players to execute a technically demanding system. For someone like Jameson Williams, who thrives with a degree of creativity in his routes, Johnson’s structured approach may have felt somewhat limiting at times. While the results spoke for themselves—Detroit boasted a top-10 offense last season—Johnson’s departure left room for a new vision to emerge.

Ben Johnson’s “Uppity” Coaching Style and Its Ripple Effect

While Ben Johnson’s success as Detroit’s offensive coordinator is undisputed, his intense and sometimes “uppity” coaching style left a memorable imprint on the locker room. Center Graham Glasgow, stepping into a larger leadership role this year, did not mince words in describing the contrast between Johnson and other coaches. In a recent radio interview, Glasgow called Johnson “a little bit more uppity,” adding that the coach’s constant high energy and drive set a demanding tone each day at practice.

For some, Johnson’s relentless push brought out their best; he demanded focus, effort, and crisp execution on every snap, and he kept the offense running at a high tempo. Players knew that any lapse could draw his quick attention. That fire fueled Detroit’s offensive surge, but it also created a culture where only the most locked-in players thrived.

The byproduct of Johnson’s approach could be seen in the way veterans and young players alike responded. Some found themselves energized by his fiery presence; others, like Glasgow, noted that the atmosphere was sometimes tenser. Yet, the results were hard to argue with—Detroit’s offense stepped up in big games and found a rhythm and toughness missing in prior years.

With Johnson now in Chicago, the memory of his intense and “uppity” presence lingers. His methods forced the Lions to sharpen mentally and physically every day. Even as the team moves forward under new leadership, Johnson’s legacy of high expectations and relentless urgency will remain a key part of Detroit’s offensive DNA.

Final Thoughts

The transition from Ben Johnson to John Morton at offensive coordinator marks a significant turning point for the Detroit Lions. While Johnson’s departure was bittersweet, Morton’s fresh ideas and confidence in his players have sparked optimism across the roster. The expanded playbook, paired with his player-first coaching style, has created an environment where stars like Jameson Williams and Jared Goff can continue to grow.

If Morton’s influence generates the results many expect, the Lions’ offense could emerge not only as one of the league’s most creative but also as its most productive. For Detroit fans, the 2025 season feels like the beginning of something special—a new era of Lions football poised to captivate the NFL.