Ben Johnson: On the Verge of NFL Head Coaching Stardom?
In the NFL, where great minds are constantly sought, Ben Johnson has emerged as a highly coveted talent. Currently serving as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, Johnson's strategic prowess and astute play-calling have not only propelled the Lions to the top of the NFC but also positioned him as a prime candidate for head coaching roles across the league.
Lions' Offensive Juggernaut
The Detroit Lions, under the guidance of Johnson, secured the No. 1 seed with an impressive 15-2 record. Their success owes much to the dynamic playbook Johnson has crafted, evident in their exceptional passing game. Quarterback Jared Goff's stellar 72.4% completion rate and the team's standings—second in yards per pass attempt and passing yards, and third in passing touchdowns—are testaments to the offensive machine Johnson orchestrates. Additionally, a formidable rushing attack marks the Lions as one of the league's most balanced teams.
A Selective Approach
Despite the flurry of interest surrounding him, Johnson is exercising caution in selecting the right head coaching opportunity. Recent reports highlight his reluctance to "interview with every team looking to fill the role," an approach underscoring his intent to land in a situation poised for success.
One of the critical factors influencing Johnson's decision is the quarterback situation of potential suitors, as insiders have noted, "He would be more interested if the Jets' quarterback situation was more solid." This careful consideration of the foundational elements of a team reveals Johnson’s strategic mindset, seeking environments where his offensive acumen can thrive.
New York Jets: A Cautionary Tale?
The New York Jets find themselves amid a significant rebuild, having dismissed head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas mid-season. Under interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich, the Jets concluded their tumultuous season with a disappointing 5-12 record, landing them the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
While the Jets are actively seeking fresh leadership and have interviewed a host of candidates for the head coaching position, Johnson does not appear to be formally in their sights just yet. Furthermore, Aaron Glenn, another notable Lions coordinator, is reportedly in the running for the same position, complicating the picture of whether the Jets might eventually turn to Johnson.
Other Teams in Play
Beyond the Jets, several other NFL teams are undergoing significant leadership changes. The Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New England Patriots are all hunting for new head coaches. The Bears parted ways with Matt Eberflus post-Thanksgiving, the Jaguars released Doug Pederson, and the Patriots moved on from Jerod Mayo. Each of these franchises presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities, potentially intriguing to a strategist of Johnson's caliber.
Financial Considerations
While the potential to lead an NFL team is enticing, financial factors also play a role in Johnson's decision-making process. With current earnings hovering around $5 million, any new role would likely need to offer not just career advancement but also financial security that befits a head coaching position.
The Road Ahead
As Ben Johnson weighs his options, the NFL landscape continues to evolve with each franchise eager to secure the next great head coach. His methodical approach in evaluating opportunities reflects a larger trend among top coordinators, who increasingly wield significant influence in shaping their career trajectories. For now, the league waits with bated breath to see where one of football's brightest minds will choose to leave his mark next.