As the NFL season transitions into its off-season, the coaching carousel is spinning rapidly, with the spotlight firmly on Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator, Ben Johnson. Regarded as a rising star, Johnson's next career move is being closely watched by teams across the league, eager to harness his strategic acumen and offensive prowess.
Johnson's Calculated Considerations
The Detroit Lions have had a remarkable season, emerging as the No. 1 seed with a commendable 15-2 record. Much of this success is attributed to Ben Johnson’s innovative approach, which has led the Lions to significant achievements in the passing game. Under his tutelage, quarterback Jared Goff has excelled with a 72.4% completion rate, aiding the team in ranking second in yards per pass attempt and passing yards, and third in passing touchdowns.
Such accomplishments have inevitably set off a buzz about Johnson's potential elevation to a head coaching position. However, as interest from teams grows, Johnson is reportedly being discerning about the opportunities he entertains. "Ben Johnson has been clear he won't interview with every team looking to fill the role," according to recent reports. This selectiveness underscores his commitment to finding a perfect fit that aligns with his professional ambitions and the team's potential.
The Quarterback Conundrum
A primary factor influencing Johnson's decisions is the quarterback situation of the teams expressing interest. An insider reveals, "He would be more interested if the Jets' quarterback situation was more solid." The Jets, who recently concluded a tumultuous season with a 5-12 record, have shown shaky consistency at the quarterback position, contributing to their struggles. This situation might weigh heavily against them in their pursuit of Johnson, despite their openness to interviewing various candidates for the vacant head coaching position.
The New York Jets recently parted ways with head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas mid-season, with Jeff Ulbrich stepping in as the interim head coach. The franchise's challenges reflect broader instability, a factor that Ben Johnson does not overlook in his deliberations. Currently, the Jets hold the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a potential opportunity to revitalize their lineup, yet this future prospect remains uncertain.
Other Contenders for a Fresh Start
The coaching turnover isn't restricted to the Jets alone. The Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New England Patriots are also in the market for new leadership at the helm. The Bears dismissed Matt Eberflus, the Jaguars released Doug Pederson, and the Patriots moved on from Jerod Mayo. These moves have further stirred the coaching landscape, presenting multiple options for potential candidates like Johnson.
Aaron Glenn, the Lions' defensive coordinator, is also on the radar for the Jets' head coaching position, highlighting the widespread recognition of Detroit's coaching staff's capabilities this season. Yet, despite these interests, the Jets have not formally extended an interview request to Johnson, possibly reflecting his moderate enthusiasm due to the aforementioned uncertainties.
Looking to the Future
With Johnson currently earning around $5 million, a head coaching position would likely come with a substantial salary increase and added responsibilities. However, Johnson appears to be making a calculated decision to ensure that his next move harmonizes with his career goals and the potential of the team he might lead.
The unfolding developments across several NFL franchises will undoubtedly impact Johnson's future. His reputation as a tactical and forward-thinking coordinator makes him a coveted candidate in the league's competitive coaching market, yet his careful deliberation highlights a professional maturity that could serve him well as a prospective head coach.
As teams like the Jets continue their search for the ideal leadership to steer their future course, Ben Johnson's decisions and preferences remain pivotal in shaping what could be a transformative period in his career. For now, he remains a key part of the Detroit Lions' success story, balancing the prospects of career advancement with a clear vision of the right opportunity.