As the NFL regular season winds down and teams look to reshape their futures, the coaching carousel is spinning faster than ever. At the center of this whirlwind is Ben Johnson, the innovative offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, a team that has impressed with a 15-2 record, securing the No. 1 seed. With his stock on the rise, Johnson is a sought-after name in the search for head coaching talent.
Johnson's ability to transform the Lions' offense into a powerhouse, boasting a second-place ranking in both yards per pass attempt and passing yards, speaks volumes about his tactical acumen. Jared Goff, the Lions' quarterback, has thrived under Johnson’s guidance, achieving a remarkable 72.4% completion rate and propelling the team to a third-place finish in passing touchdowns. The success is not limited to aerial attacks; Detroit's rushing offense similarly ranks in the top ten across various metrics, highlighting Johnson's balanced strategic approach.
Selective Ambitions
Despite the buzz surrounding his head coaching potential, Johnson has made it clear he won't be taking just any opportunity that comes his way. "Ben Johnson has been clear he won't interview with every team looking to fill the role," according to recent reports, underscoring his selective nature. One of the critical factors influencing his decision-making process is the quarterback situation of the potential teams interested in his services. An insider reveals, "He would be more interested if the Jets' quarterback situation was more solid," echoing the sentiment that the right fit is essential for Johnson's next move.
Turbulence in New York
Meanwhile, the New York Jets find themselves in the throes of organizational upheaval. The mid-season dismissal of head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas has left the team searching for new leadership. Jeff Ulbrich stepped up as interim head coach, but the Jets concluded their tumultuous season with a disappointing 5-12 record. Equipped with the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Jets are keen to recalibrate and find a head coach who can steer them toward a brighter future.
In their search, the Jets have cast a wide net, considering a range of candidates, including Aaron Glenn, the Lions' defensive coordinator. However, as of now, the Jets have not formally requested an interview with Ben Johnson. The quarterback dilemma in New York seems to weigh heavily on his decision to potentially join their ranks.
Broadening the Horizon
The Jets are not the only franchise seeking new leadership. The Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New England Patriots are also on the hunt for head coaches after releasing Matt Eberflus, Doug Pederson, and Jerod Mayo, respectively. Each of these teams presents different challenges and opportunities, potentially attracting Johnson’s interest if their quarterback situations align with his criteria.
Currently earning around $5 million as Detroit's offensive coordinator, Johnson’s marketability and demand are poised to escalate as teams seek to bolster their coaching staff with a talent of his caliber. His track record with the Lions demonstrates an ability to elevate an offense, a quality that is ever-valuable in a league relentlessly defined by offensive performance.
As the NFL offseason begins, Ben Johnson's choices will be closely watched by franchises and fans alike. His insistence on finding the right fit speaks to a strategic mindset that aligns with his success. Where he ultimately decides to bring his expertise will not only impact his future but also the aspirations of teams eager to capitalize on his offensive vision.