Ben Johnson's Selective Path to NFL Head Coaching
Ben Johnson, the sharp offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, has found himself at the center of a swirling NFL coaching carousel. With his current team riding high on a remarkable 15-2 season, securing the No. 1 seed, Johnson’s stock has understandably risen. Yet, despite the obvious allure of head coaching roles within the league, Johnson is treading carefully, proving to be highly selective in considering his next professional move.
Navigating Coaching Opportunities
Johnson’s future was already a hot topic among NFL insiders, even before multiple teams found themselves in the market for new leadership. The New York Jets, for instance, have been part of this coaching drama, having parted ways with head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas after a disappointing 5-12 season. As the Jets sift through potential candidates, Johnson's name inevitably surfaced. However, if you’re eagerly anticipating news of an interview, you might need to temper your excitement. Reports suggest that “Ben Johnson has been clear he won’t interview with every team looking to fill the role.” His selectiveness is not just about which team calls first but hinges significantly on more specific criteria.
Quarterback Considerations
A roundtable of NFL insider chatter illuminates the core of Johnson’s concerns: quarterback stability. As one insider noted, "He would be more interested if the Jets' quarterback situation was more solid." It’s an understandable stance in today’s quarterback-driven game. A coach’s fate is often tied to their signal-caller’s effectiveness, and Johnson seems unwilling to gamble on a shaky partnership. With the Jets holding the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, perhaps there’s potential for a fresh start, but it's clear they’ll need more to entice Johnson.
Potential Openings Across the League
While the Jets may not be pressing the right buttons yet, plenty of suitors are exploring Johnson’s potential. The Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New England Patriots are all hunting for new head coaches. Each franchise brings its unique challenges and opportunities. The Bears dismissed Matt Eberflus post-Thanksgiving, the Jaguars moved on from Doug Pederson, and the Patriots let Jerod Mayo go—all signaling that the NFL shuffle is far from over.
Amidst this, Johnson’s current situation with the Lions remains lucrative. Current reports place his earnings around $5 million, a testament to both his value and Detroit’s commitment to keeping him on board. Still, every ambitious coordinator keeps one eye on the future.
The Lions’ Offensive Prowess
Under Johnson's guidance, the Lions' offense has flourished. Jared Goff, their quarterback, is boasting impressive stats, clocking in a 72.4% completion rate this season. Moreover, the Lions stand second in yards per pass attempt and passing yards, and they’re also third in passing touchdowns. It’s not just through the air that they excel; their rushing attack ranks within the top ten across various metrics, showcasing a well-rounded offensive unit.
As NFL teams embark on their head coaching search, a coordinated blend of Johnson’s proven track record and an ideal team quarterback situation may just set the stage for a new chapter in his career. Meanwhile, one thing remains certain—Ben Johnson won’t be rushed into making a decision that could shape his coaching legacy. The wait, undoubtedly, will be worth it for the right opportunity.