Ben Johnson, the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, has emerged as one of the NFL’s most sought-after head-coaching candidates over the past two years. Despite turning down multiple opportunities, including positions with the Carolina Panthers and Washington Commanders, Johnson, now 38, might choose to stay in Detroit through the 2025 season. Johnson is currently in his third year as the Lions’ offensive coordinator, having joined the team in 2019 as an offensive quality control coach. He was retained when Dan Campbell became the head coach in 2021, and his success has fueled his growing reputation as a potential future head coach.
In 2022, Johnson quickly became a hot name in coaching circles, with many teams eyeing him for head-coaching roles. His performance has made him one of the most in-demand coordinators, earning interview requests from multiple NFL franchises. However, Johnson chose to stay in Detroit, turning down the opportunity to pursue a job with the Panthers during the 2023 hiring cycle. A year later, he once again withdrew his name from consideration when the Washington Commanders tried to meet with him about their vacant head-coach position.
Despite Johnson’s decision to pass on two significant job offers, he remains a highly regarded candidate for any head-coaching openings in the future. Even though there may be 8-10 head-coaching jobs available in the coming offseason, some believe there’s a real chance Johnson could stay with the Lions. NFL insider James Palmer, speaking to Bleacher Report, mentioned that Johnson could be selective in choosing his next move and might decide to remain in his current role.
Palmer suggested that Johnson is unlikely to be attracted to every available head-coaching position. He emphasized that Johnson is more introverted and prefers smaller markets, which may influence his decision-making. The Lions’ current environment suits Johnson, and Palmer hinted that the coach might prefer staying in a place where he is comfortable, focusing on football rather than the additional media responsibilities and scrutiny that come with being a head coach.
Reports have also indicated that Johnson’s reluctance to leave Detroit could be connected to his high salary demands from last year. He may have used these financial expectations as a way to narrow down his options, steering clear of teams that didn’t align with his personal and professional preferences. This strategy has allowed him to remain in a position where he can continue to build his reputation without taking on the stress of a head-coaching job.
As of now, it remains uncertain whether Johnson will stay or leave Detroit. However, with his love for his current role and the positive environment with the Lions, it is plausible that he could opt to stay in his offensive coordinator position for the 2025 season. The allure of head-coaching jobs may not be enough to lure him away from a role he is clearly satisfied with.
In conclusion, while Ben Johnson’s future in the NFL is a subject of speculation, it is clear that he values his current situation in Detroit. His selective approach to head-coaching opportunities, combined with a preference for smaller markets and a desire to focus on football, could lead him to make the surprising decision to remain with the Lions as their offensive coordinator in 2025.
