In the ever-competitive world of the National Football League, the pursuit for top coaching talent can become a drama of its own, and Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, finds himself at the heart of this narrative. Known for his strategic acumen and successful track record, Johnson is now a sought-after candidate as teams across the NFL search for new head coaches.
Ben Johnson: A Coveted Candidate
Ben Johnson's impressive tenure with the Detroit Lions has cemented his reputation as a top-tier coordinator. Under his guidance, the Lions have excelled offensively, securing the No. 1 seed with a 15-2 record. Jared Goff, the team's quarterback, achieved an impressive 72.4% completion rate, with the team ranking second in yards per pass attempt and passing yards. Additionally, the Lions pride themselves on being third in passing touchdowns, complementing their top ten rushing attack. Such accomplishments have naturally led to other NFL teams considering Johnson for head coaching roles.
However, Johnson is discerning when it comes to the opportunities he entertains. According to insiders, he is highly selective, with reports indicating, "Ben Johnson has been clear he won't interview with every team looking to fill the role." This selectivity is not unfounded; for Johnson, the quality of an NFL team's quarterback situation plays a pivotal role in his interest. As one insider notes, "He would be more interested if the Jets' quarterback situation was more solid."
The New York Jets: A Team in Transition
The New York Jets are currently amidst significant transitions, having dismissed head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas mid-season. Jeff Ulbrich stepped in as the interim head coach, navigating the team to a final record of 5-12. With a determination to reset and rebuild, the Jets hold the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and are actively interviewing candidates for the head coaching position. Despite the Jets' keen interest in revitalizing their roster and coaching staff, they have not formally requested an interview with Ben Johnson.
Aaron Glenn, the defensive coordinator for the Lions, is among those being considered for the Jets' top coaching job. The Jets' search for a new face of their franchise reflects their commitment to turning the tide and returning to competitiveness in the league.
The Bigger Picture in the NFL
While the Jets are in pursuit of a new head coach, they are not alone. The Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New England Patriots are also on the hunt for leaders to guide their franchises into a new era. The Bears released Matt Eberflus post-Thanksgiving, the Jaguars parted ways with Doug Pederson, and the Patriots said goodbye to Jerod Mayo. Each of these teams is trying to navigate their own set of challenges and are looking for strategic minds who can instill confidence and reshape their futures.
With Johnson's current earnings reportedly around $5 million, a move to a head coaching position would likely come with a substantial increase. Yet, for Johnson, it's not merely about the paycheck. His decisions are clearly influenced by the potential for a winning culture and a sound quarterback situation, underscoring his commitment to long-term success.
The developments involving Ben Johnson and the various NFL teams highlight the dynamic nature of the league. As the offseason progresses, the decisions made in these coaching searches will undoubtedly ripple through the NFL landscape, setting the stage for the next series of battles on the gridiron. For now, all eyes remain on the ensuing moves of both the highly-regarded Johnson and the teams eager for change. The coming months promise to be a pivotal period for franchises and individuals alike in the pursuit of football excellence.