Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is scheduled for four head coaching interviews this week, as reported by NFL insider Jordan Schultz. Johnson will meet with the Raiders and Patriots on Friday, followed by interviews with the Bears and Jaguars on Saturday. However, The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reports that Johnson is only set for three interviews, excluding the Raiders.
For the third consecutive year, Johnson remains one of the most sought-after head coaching candidates, a status he has earned thanks to the Lions’ consistently elite offense. Over the past three seasons, Detroit’s offense has ranked in the top five in scoring, with this year’s unit finishing at No. 1, setting a franchise record with 564 points (33.2 points per game).
Although Johnson has previously had chances to move on to a head coaching position, he chose to stay in Detroit to continue his work. Earlier this year, he expressed a strong desire to eventually take that next step. “There’s a deep urge in every man to test his limits and see if he’s capable,” Johnson remarked. “So, yes, there’s a drive. When that opportunity comes, I’m not sure, but I definitely have that drive.”
Both Johnson and Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who also has four interviews lined up, are restricted to virtual interviews for now. These interviews will be paused next week as the Lions prepare for their Divisional Round playoff game.
