The Decision Ahead
Ben Johnson: A Rising Star in the Coaching Ranks and His Potential Hunt for a New Head Coaching Job
As the NFL coaching carousel spins faster each year, one name that’s been consistently rising in prominence is Ben Johnson. The Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator has quickly gained recognition for his innovative play-calling, sharp football mind, and ability to maximize his players’ potential. After leading one of the league’s most explosive offenses in 2024, Johnson’s name has been mentioned as a top candidate for several head coaching vacancies, including high-profile openings with the Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets.
As teams look to turn their fortunes around, many are eyeing Johnson as the type of young, dynamic leader who could spearhead a new era. But with multiple options on the table, the big question is: Will Ben Johnson leave the Lions to take on the challenge of leading a new team in need of a change?
Before looking ahead, it’s important to reflect on Ben Johnson’s impressive rise to the forefront of NFL coaching. In just his second year as offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, Johnson helped transform a once-struggling offense into one of the most potent units in the league. Under his guidance, quarterback Jared Goff had a career resurgence, and the Lions’ offense finished among the league's top performers.
Johnson's offensive schemes are known for being diverse and adaptable. Whether it’s dialing up creative passing plays, using motion to outsmart defenses, or getting the most out of his playmakers like Amon-Ra St. Brown and David Montgomery, Johnson has proven he’s not afraid to push the envelope. His ability to balance a strong passing game with an effective running attack has made him a sought-after name among NFL owners and general managers looking for a fresh approach.
His success has not only been about X’s and O’s—Johnson has also earned praise for his leadership and ability to connect with players. His calm demeanor and collaborative approach have helped him build strong relationships within the Lions’ locker room, creating a culture of trust and accountability. These traits make him an appealing head coaching candidate, especially for teams looking to build a new foundation.
As we look to Ben Johnson’s potential future, two teams that have been frequently linked to his name are the Las Vegas Raiders and the New York Jets. Both franchises are in need of a coaching change after underperforming in recent seasons, and each could benefit from a new voice to help them reach their potential.
Las Vegas Raiders:
The Raiders have had a turbulent coaching situation in recent years, with Josh McDaniels being fired midway through the 2024 season. With a high-profile quarterback in Jimmy Garoppolo and a strong receiving corps that includes Davante Adams, the Raiders have the pieces to be competitive—but they need someone to unlock that potential.
Ben Johnson’s experience in revitalizing offenses could make him a perfect fit for the Raiders, who need a fresh offensive-minded leader. Johnson’s creative and aggressive play-calling could help get the most out of Garoppolo, who has struggled to find consistency. Moreover, his ability to design plays that take advantage of Adams’ elite route-running and speed would elevate the Raiders’ passing attack to new heights. With a solid offensive line and the emerging star Josh Jacobs in the backfield, Johnson’s balanced offensive approach could make a real difference for the Raiders.
New York Jets:
The New York Jets, on the other hand, have been one of the NFL’s most promising young teams, but their offense has been a major roadblock. Despite a strong defense and an impressive group of young playmakers like Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall, the Jets have struggled to find consistency at the quarterback position. With the firing of head coach Robert Saleh’s offensive coordinator and a need for a complete offensive overhaul, Ben Johnson could be exactly what the Jets need to push them to the next level.
Johnson’s offensive philosophy, which emphasizes versatility and creating mismatches, would be ideal for developing young talent like Wilson, Hall, and Zach Wilson (or whichever quarterback the Jets choose to develop). His ability to design a system that maximizes the strengths of his players while hiding their weaknesses would be crucial in getting the Jets’ offense on track. Furthermore, Johnson’s experience with different types of quarterbacks would make him well-suited to adapt to whatever quarterback situation the Jets find themselves in.
What sets Ben Johnson apart from other head coaching candidates is his combination of offensive expertise, leadership qualities, and ability to adapt to his players’ strengths. In a league that is becoming more offensively focused, teams need head coaches who can create dynamic offenses that are unpredictable and capable of scoring at will. Johnson’s track record in Detroit proves that he can do exactly that.
Moreover, Johnson’s ability to manage young players and build a strong team culture is another asset. He understands how to create a cohesive unit and get buy-in from his players, something that is crucial for long-term success. Teams like the Raiders and Jets, who are looking to build strong cultures and a winning atmosphere, would benefit from Johnson’s approach.
While Ben Johnson has certainly built a strong case for being an NFL head coach, the decision to leave Detroit will not be an easy one. The Lions are on the rise, and Johnson’s success in turning their offense around has solidified his position as a key part of their future. However, as a young, ambitious coach, Johnson will undoubtedly be enticed by the opportunity to take on a new challenge with a team that needs a fresh perspective.
As the NFL offseason continues and the coaching search intensifies, it’s clear that Ben Johnson is one of the most promising head coaching candidates in the league. Whether he ends up in Las Vegas, New York, or another team in need of a coach, his future in the NFL looks bright. The next step in his coaching journey will undoubtedly be a defining one, and for fans of the Raiders, Jets, or any other team that may come calling, Johnson’s arrival could be the spark they need to turn things around.