Ben Johnson's Strategic Calculations: A Deep Dive into the NFL's Coaching Carousel
As the NFL season progresses towards its conclusion, eyes are set on key managerial shifts that might redefine certain franchises. At the center of this attention is Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, who stands out not just for his strategic acumen on the field but for his selective approach to career advancement.
Over the past season, Johnson has garnered significant attention, not least because of the Lions’ impressive 15-2 record, securing them the No. 1 seed. Johnson's offensive schemes have propelled the Lions to rank second in yards per pass attempt and passing yards, and third in passing touchdowns. Under his guidance, quarterback Jared Goff has achieved an enviable 72.4% completion rate. This is no small feat, considering the competitive landscape of the NFL.
The success in Detroit has catapulted Johnson into the spotlight, where he's now being eyed for head coaching positions across the league. However, Johnson has made it clear that he won't entertain every offer that comes his way. "Ben Johnson has been clear he won't interview with every team looking to fill the role," reports indicate. This measured approach is particularly significant given the high-stakes nature of these roles and the unique demands placed on NFL head coaches.
Johnson's methodical approach to career moves is further underscored by his keen interest in the quarterback situation of potential suitors. As an insider notes, "He would be more interested if the Jets' quarterback situation was more solid." This sentiment reveals Johnson’s strategic thinking, emphasizing the importance of a strong quarterback to his offensive philosophy.
The New York Jets, for instance, are in a state of flux. After parting ways with head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas mid-season, the Jets entrusted interim head coaching duties to Jeff Ulbrich. Despite the leadership shake-up, the Jets closed the season with a 5-12 record, and hold the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Still, they face significant challenges, notably their unsettled quarterback situation.
The Jets have been actively interviewing candidates for their head coaching position, with Aaron Glenn, the Detroit Lions' defensive coordinator, reportedly under consideration. However, they have not formally requested an interview with Johnson, a decision perhaps influenced by Johnson's specified criteria for serious engagement.
Beyond the Jets, other NFL teams are also on the hunt for new leadership. The Chicago Bears released Matt Eberflus post-Thanksgiving, while the Jacksonville Jaguars and New England Patriots parted ways with Doug Pederson and Jerod Mayo, respectively. These openings present additional opportunities for Johnson, should he opt to pursue them.
Financial incentives also play a role in such decisions, and with Johnson currently earning around $5 million, any potential move would likely come with a significant pay increase. Yet, for a strategist like Johnson, salary is just one element of a more comprehensive evaluation of opportunity.
As teams look to fill their head coaching vacancies, the market for talent remains competitive. Johnson’s track record with the Lions has undoubtedly made him a coveted candidate, but his approach underscores a broader trend among top-tier coordinators: the desire to commit to situations that not only offer professional challenges but align with their strategic philosophies and offer a viable roadmap to success.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Johnson takes a leap into head coaching or remains with the Lions to further solidify his legacy. Either way, his impact on the field and the broader coaching landscape will be closely observed by analysts and fans alike. In a league where every decision is magnified, Johnson’s approach provides a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of NFL career progression.