Ben Johnson will once again be one of the most popular names on the coaching market this offseason. However, unlike past hiring cycles, the Lions offensive coordinator will be a bit more methodical with the process.
According to Albert Breer of TheMMQB
, Johnson is taking a “different approach” this offseason. Specifically, the OC doesn’t intend to “chase interviews,” and he’ll only talk with teams that he’s genuinely interested in joining. We heard a similar sentiment last month, with ESPN’s Adam Schefter noting that Johnson intends to be “highly selective”
with his next gig.
Further, Johnson is seeking “organizational alignment” between the head coach and general manager. Considering HC-needy teams will mostly be seated towards the bottom of the standings, the coach is also seeking “recognition” from organizations about their shortcomings. This would require interested teams to explain where things have gone wrong and how they intend to fix the issues.
As the Lions have climbed into a Super Bowl-contending position, Johnson has become a hot name on the coaching market for each of the past two offseasons. He was viewed as the leader for the Panthers’ HC job in 2023 , and he was in pole position to replace Ron Rivera in Washington this past offseason. Both times, Johnson decided to stick in Detroit, and after receiving a raise several years ago, his current Lions deal runs through 2025 . The Lions would surely pony up if Johnson wants to stay with the organization, but it seems like the coach is finally set to lead his own staff. The Bears have already been mentioned as a potential suitor , and other teams will surely emerge as the season comes to an end.
On the other side of the ball, Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn is also expected to be a popular name as the coaching market heats up. Breer points to two squads that already have a connection to the coach: the Jets (where Glenn spent the first eight seasons of his playing career) and the Saints (where Glenn coached for five years prior to his stint in Detroit).