Lions’ Ben Johnson Eyes HC Role, Set for Interviews with Two Teams During Bye Week

Following a standout season where the Detroit Lions secured the top position in the NFC, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson finds himself with some unexpected downtime. Johnson plans to use this break to entertain potential head coaching opportunities, as his team gears up for a potential Super Bowl run.

This week, during the Lions’ playoff hiatus, Johnson is scheduled to discuss head coaching roles with both the New England Patriots and the Chicago Bears, according to reports by NFL insider Tom Pelissero.

“Ben Johnson is definitely planning to meet with both the Patriots and the Bears about their head coaching vacancies this week. He has shown a longstanding interest in the Bears, and now with the Patriots’ position open, especially with Drake Maye at quarterback, that’s a prospect worth watching,” Pelissero commented during an NFL Network broadcast.

The Patriots recently dismissed Jerod Mayo after only one season, while the Bears said goodbye to Matt Eberflus earlier this year.

The fact that Johnson is considering these coaching positions is particularly noteworthy considering his unique approach to this hiring cycle.

The in-demand coach has decided not to pursue just any interview opportunity. Instead, he will only engage in discussions if he is genuinely interested in taking the job, according to SI’s Albert Breer.

Breer also highlighted that Johnson is keen on finding a team where there is a strong alignment between the GM and the head coach. Additionally, he wants a team that acknowledges its shortcomings and shows a commitment to addressing them,” Breer explained.

Since 2022, Johnson, age 38, has been the offensive coordinator for the Lions. Over his 13-year tenure in the NFL, he has collaborated with several head coaches, including Adam Gase during their brief time together with the Miami Dolphins and Matt Patricia before the Dan Campbell era in Detroit.

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