The Coaching Carousel Spins: Ben Johnson in the Spotlight
As the NFL coaching carousel spins at a frenetic pace, Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, finds himself at the epicenter of speculation. With several head coaching positions opening across the league, Johnson, renowned for orchestrating one of the NFL's most potent offenses, is a name on many teams' wish lists. Yet, his approach to potential opportunities appears to be as strategic as his play-calling.
Johnson, whose innovative schemes have powered the Lions to the No. 1 seed with a remarkable 15-2 record, is reportedly selective about the roles he might consider filling. "Ben Johnson has been clear he won't interview with every team looking to fill the role," according to recent reports. His focus on finding the right fit underscores his careful consideration of the long-term implications each potential move might have on his career trajectory.
Central to Johnson’s decision-making process is the quarterback situation of prospective teams. It's a factor influenced by his success with Jared Goff, the Lions' quarterback. Goff, under Johnson's watchful eye, has flourished, achieving an impressive 72.4% completion rate, contributing to the Lions ranking second in yards per pass attempt and passing yards. They also boast a third-place rank in passing touchdowns, with their rushing attack securely in the top ten across various metrics. "He would be more interested if the Jets' quarterback situation was more solid," an insider notes, highlighting a critical component of his evaluation criteria.
Jets in Transition
The New York Jets, in particular, have been the subject of whispers regarding their interest in Johnson. After dismissing head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas mid-season following a disappointing 5-12 season, the Jets are amid a comprehensive search for a new leader. Jeff Ulbrich stepped in as interim head coach, but the team’s long-term vision is still under development as they weigh their options, armed with the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Although Aaron Glenn, the Lions' defensive coordinator, is reported to be in consideration for the Jets' vacancy, there has been no formal request to interview Johnson. His reluctance to engage with the Jets is perhaps understandable given their notable instability at the quarterback position.
Broader Coaching Landscape
Beyond the Jets, other NFL franchises are also seeking fresh leadership this offseason. The Chicago Bears made headlines by releasing Matt Eberflus post-Thanksgiving. Similarly, the Jacksonville Jaguars parted ways with Doug Pederson, and the New England Patriots decided not to continue with Jerod Mayo at the helm. These changes reflect a broader trend across the league, where teams are quick to seek new strategies and fresh perspectives in the face of disappointing campaigns.
For Johnson, who is currently earning around $5 million, the considerations extend beyond financial incentives. His decision to engage with any of these organizations hinges on a complex interplay of leadership philosophy, team prospects, and, notably, the state of the quarterback roster.
A Patient Path Forward
As the dust settles and teams begin to make their selections, Johnson’s future remains a topic of significant interest. His prudent approach in evaluating opportunities could serve as a blueprint for aspiring coaches navigating the often turbulent waters of the NFL coaching landscape. By valuing the right fit over immediate advancement, Johnson exemplifies a forward-thinking mindset that could sustain his success as he shapes the next chapter of his career. Meanwhile, the carousel continues to spin, with franchises across the league vying for their next strategic leader, hoping to emulate the Lions’ blueprint of triumph.