The Detroit Lions nearly lost offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, but both coaches will return in 2024.
After interviewing for NFL head coaching opportunities, Johnson and Johnson will remain on Detroit’s staff in 2024. General manager Brad Holmes told reporters Monday that the organization is “fortunate” to keep their coordinators.
“It’s everything. Continuity is everything,” Holmes said . “They’re great coaches. They’re very smart. They’re great leaders. They’re teachers and they fit here. … I’m glad that they’re back. I know we’re a better team with that continuity.”
Brad Holmes on the #Lions ‘ coordinators returning pic.twitter.com/9RcSkYncZk
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Johnson was again a popular coaching candidate after leading the Lions to another top-five offense. The 37-year-old removed himself from consideration on the day the Washington Commanders flew to Detroit for a second interview.
Washington also pursued Glenn, who helped the Lions improve from last to No. 19 in total defense. Holmes believes it’s a testament to his team’s culture that they’re able to retain talented staffers.
“The one thing I’ll say about those guys being back is, I think it says a lot about our organization,” Holmes said. “And I think that’s a part that wasn’t really talked about as much. Yes, you got two talented coordinators, jobs open up. They have to take those jobs, right? Well, they got d*mn good jobs here.”
Rumors have spread about Johnson’s choice and handling of the situation, but Holmes declared that he has “a great deal” working in Detroit.
“I’m not speaking for Ben,” he said. “I don’t know his thoughts. And that’s the other thing, you’ve got to just give people respect of the unknown.”