Ben Johnson's Cautious Journey Toward an NFL Head Coaching Role
In the dynamic and often unpredictable world of the NFL, the Detroit Lions have emerged as a formidable force this season, largely due to the strategic acumen of their offensive coordinator, Ben Johnson. As the Lions stride confidently into the playoffs with a commanding 15-2 season record, the buzz around Johnson's potential elevation to a head coaching role grows ever louder. Yet, as teams clamor for leadership that could enhance their fortunes, Johnson remains discerning about the opportunities he is willing to explore.
Johnson's noteworthy leadership on the field is highlighted by the Lions’ impressive offensive statistics. Jared Goff, the team’s quarterback, boasts a stellar 72.4% completion rate, contributing significantly to Detroit's ranking as second in yards per pass attempt and passing yards, while also securing third place in passing touchdowns. The team’s rushing attack stands prominently within the top ten in various metrics, underscoring the balanced and potent performance orchestrated under Johnson’s guidance.
As the season concludes for some teams, the coaching carousel intensifies, particularly for franchises in dire need of rejuvenation and strategic direction. The New York Jets, having dismissed their head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas mid-season, are actively seeking a change in leadership after ending the season with a 5-12 record. Jeff Ulbrich recently served as the interim head coach, but with the seventh overall pick in the approaching 2025 NFL Draft, the Jets are keen to secure a head coach who can steer them towards success.
Amidst a pool of candidates being considered for the Jets' coaching position, including Aaron Glenn, the Lions' defensive coordinator, one name conspicuously not at the forefront is Ben Johnson. While some might find this surprising given his current earning of around $5 million, Johnson has maintained, “Ben Johnson has been clear he won't interview with every team looking to fill the role.” His calculative approach is a testament to his focus on aligning his career decisions with opportunities that promise a robust foundation for success.
One critical element influencing Johnson’s consideration of a head coaching role is the quarterback situation of potential teams. An insider notes, “He would be more interested if the Jets' quarterback situation was more solid.” Such selectivity reflects not only Johnson’s understanding of the importance of a stable and capable quarterback but also his ambition to build a winning team from day one.
The league currently sees other teams, such as the Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New England Patriots, also embarking on head coach hunts. The Bears moved on from Matt Eberflus after Thanksgiving, while the Jaguars and Patriots released Doug Pederson and Jerod Mayo, respectively. This frenzy creates a competitive environment where teams vie for proven talent like Johnson, but his methodical evaluation of available roles underscores his commitment to finding an optimal fit.
As the Lions prepare for their playoff journey as the No. 1 seed, Ben Johnson's trajectory within the NFL coaching landscape remains a focal point of intrigue. His cautious examination of potential head coaching positions underscores a strategic foresight, prioritizing alignment between team readiness and personal career objectives. For Johnson, it isn't merely about ascending the ranks; it’s about ensuring that when he does step into a head coaching role, it’s with a team primed for success, where his vision can truly take flight.