As the NFL season progresses, the coaching carousel begins to spin with increasing fervor. At the center of this whirlwind stands Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, who is currently becoming one of the most desired commodities in the head coaching market. Johnson's name is prominently circulating among NFL franchises seeking to reinvigorate their on-field strategies, yet he remains judicious about which opportunities he may pursue.
Ben Johnson's Cautious Approach
Johnson, although being considered for several head coaching vacancies, is clear about his criteria. According to recent reports, he “won't interview with every team looking to fill the role.” His selective approach is reflective of a broader strategy that prioritizes stability and potential success over the mere prestige of a head coaching position.
A key factor influencing Johnson’s decision is the quarterback situation of potential teams. An insider notes, “He would be more interested if the Jets' quarterback situation was more solid.” This comes as no surprise given the pivotal role quarterbacks play in determining a team's trajectory and success. For Johnson, whose Lions have posted outstanding offensive statistics, the quarterback constitutes a fundamental piece of the puzzle.
The New York Jets' Turmoil
The New York Jets are a prime example of a team currently facing head coaching uncertainties. The mid-season dismissal of head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas has left the franchise scrambling for leadership. Jeff Ulbrich stepped in as the interim head coach, but the team’s 5-12 record tells a tale of strategies gone awry and unmet expectations.
As they hold the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Jets are actively interviewing candidates, including Aaron Glenn, the Lions’ defensive coordinator. Despite their desperation for rejuvenation, they have yet to formally request an interview with Johnson, perhaps hindered by their quarterback situation, which seems far from appealing to him.
The Lions' Offensive Success
Meanwhile, Detroit Lions have thrived under Johnson's offensive leadership, securing the No. 1 seed with a stellar 15-2 record. With Jared Goff at the helm, the Lions have achieved remarkable offensive statistics, boasting a 72.4% completion rate and ranking second in both yards per pass attempt and passing yards. Their potent offense, complemented by a top ten rushing attack, makes Johnson's stock in the coaching market even more appealing.
The report of his current earnings at around $5 million further cements his status as a critical component of the Lions’ success. As teams like the Jets evaluate their coaching futures, Johnson represents a high-caliber candidate who can potentially turn fortunes in their favor.
Wider Coaching Changes in the NFL
Beyond the Lions and Jets, the coaching carousel spins widely. The Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New England Patriots are also seeking new leadership. The Bears parted ways with Matt Eberflus post-Thanksgiving, the Jaguars dismissed Doug Pederson, and the Patriots released Jerod Mayo. Each of these teams, like the Jets, is in search of a visionary leader who can rewrite their storied franchises while dealing with their unique challenges.
For Johnson, this landscape presents a plethora of options. However, his discerning approach suggests he will opt for a team where foundational elements, specifically the quarterback, provide the best canvas for showcasing his offensive prowess.
As the season unfolds and franchises race to fill their coaching void, the decisions made in boardrooms and interviews will chart the course of the NFL's future. The anticipation around Johnson's next move underscores the weight of these decisions in the balance of power within the league. Whether he remains in Detroit or takes the helm of a new team, Johnson is poised to make a significant impact on the field in the coming seasons.