Ben Johnson: Navigating His Path in NFL Coaching Opportunities
Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, has found himself in the spotlight of the NFL coaching carousel. A key architect behind the Lions' high-octane offense, Johnson is drawing attention from several teams looking for a new head coach. However, in a landscape where NFL coaching vacancies invariably align with struggling franchises, Johnson remains discerning about such opportunities.
His discernment isn't rooted in a lack of ambition but rather in strategic career planning. "Ben Johnson has been clear he won't interview with every team looking to fill the role," as recently reported. His criteria for a potential head coaching role include a stable quarterback situation—a crucial factor that heavily influences his interest. An insider emphasized this point, noting, "He would be more interested if the Jets' quarterback situation was more solid."
The Detroit Lions' Offensive Resurgence
Under Johnson's guidance, the Detroit Lions have flourished offensively. The Lions clinched the No. 1 seed with an impressive 15-2 record, showcasing a powerful balance in their offensive scheme. Quarterback Jared Goff achieved a remarkable 72.4% completion rate, steering a unit that ranks second in both yards per pass attempt and passing yards, alongside a third-place rank in passing touchdowns. The running game is no slouch either, positioned within the top ten across various metrics, further illustrating the diversity and efficiency of Detroit's attack.
This success undoubtedly bolsters Johnson’s resume, making him a hot commodity among teams in search of fresh leadership and innovative offensive strategies. Yet, his selective approach means he isn't quick to jump at every offer. Instead, Johnson is keen to find an organization where his offensive vision can align with strong leadership and a promising on-field product, particularly at quarterback.
The New York Jets' Coaching Search
One such team reportedly interested in Johnson is the New York Jets, who face a pivotal offseason following the mid-season dismissal of head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich managed the team to a 5-12 record, a performance that leaves substantial room for improvement. As the Jets prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft with the seventh overall pick, they are interviewing a variety of candidates to spearhead their future—including Detroit's defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.
Despite their interest, the Jets have not formally requested an interview with Johnson, potentially due to their unsettled quarterback situation, which Johnson holds as a deciding factor in his next move.
Other Franchises in the Market
The Jets are not alone in their search for new leadership. The Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New England Patriots are also pursuing new head coaches. The Bears moved on from Matt Eberflus after Thanksgiving, while the Jaguars let go of Doug Pederson. Meanwhile, the Patriots parted ways with Jerod Mayo in what appears to be a significant organizational shift.
These changes underscore a prevalent theme in this year's NFL offseason—teams acknowledging the need for fresh perspectives to rejuvenate their fortunes. As these teams navigate their rebuilds, they face the challenge of assembling coaching staffs that can install effective systems and foster player development, particularly at the quarterback position, a priority Johnson shares in any potential role.
Balancing Ambition and Opportunity
Johnson's current position with the Lions, which commands a salary around $5 million, provides him with a solid foundation and the allure of a robust offensive unit. This security enables him to be judicious about career advancements, ensuring any transition to head coach aligns with his professional aspirations and the prospect of contending at a high level.
In an era where coaching stability can be fleeting, Johnson appears to be playing a long game, weighing various factors before committing to lead a team. His calculated approach is not just a testament to his professional discipline but also indicative of his desire to leave a lasting impact wherever he lands. For now, the NFL waits as Ben Johnson contemplates the next step in his coaching journey—a decision that could shape the fortunes of both the man and the franchise he chooses to invest his talents in.