As the Detroit Lions wrap up an exciting postseason, they face the possibility of major changes to their coaching staff. Ben Johnson, their offensive coordinator, and Aaron Glenn, the defensive coordinator, are both hot commodities in the NFL coaching market. With the Lions achieving a stellar 15-2 season, thanks in large part to the strategic brilliance of these two coordinators, Johnson and Glenn are expected to receive significant interest from teams with head coaching vacancies.
Ben Johnson has transformed the Lions’ offense into one of the league’s best since taking the reins in 2022, with this season’s unit leading the NFL by averaging 33.2 points per game. Johnson’s knack for creativity in playcalling and his commitment to player development, particularly with quarterback Jared Goff, underscore his coaching prowess. His impressive leadership hasn’t gone unnoticed, drawing interviews from multiple teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars and Chicago Bears, though the New England Patriots have already gone in a different direction with Mike Vrabel.
For those keeping track, here’s a breakdown of where Johnson might land next:
- Las Vegas Raiders
While the Raiders have some intriguing pieces, their quarterback situation leaves much to be desired. Playing without a solid QB, the team turned to Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew, whose season was cut short by injury.
Despite these setbacks, rookie All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers shone brightly, and the receiving corps showed promise after a mid-season trade of Devante Adams. However, without a substantial running game or reliable signal-caller, the Raiders face significant hurdles.
Their defense, hobbled by injuries to stars like Maxx Crosby, will also need some rebuilding. On the bright side, Las Vegas holds ten draft picks, including the sixth overall, and boasts ample cap space at $85.7 million.
- Chicago Bears
The Bears had high hopes in 2024, but the wheels came off mid-season, leading to Matt Eberflus’s dismissal. Young talent is abundant in Chicago, with Caleb Williams at quarterback and two solid receivers in D.J.
Moore and Rome Odunze. However, their offensive line woes left Williams vulnerable, resulting in a league-high number of sacks, and hampered the running game after the addition of D’Andre Swift.
Defensively, while there are playmakers, the unit faltered as the season progressed. Still, with eight draft picks—including the tenth overall—and $54 million in effective cap space, there’s plenty of room for a turnaround.
- Jacksonville Jaguars
Disappointment engulfed Jacksonville as they went 4-13, leading to a favorable draft position at fifth overall. Trevor Lawrence struggled before an injury ended his season, and the team’s defense ranked near the bottom of the league.
Yet, the squad offers a mix of young talent, including Lawrence and top receiver Brian Thomas Jr., while the defense fields promising edge rushers in Josh-Hines Allen and Travon Walker. Strategic improvements are needed, particularly in the offensive line and secondary, but with ten draft picks and nearly $28 million in cap space, there’s room for growth.
**Where does Ben Johnson fit? **
In all likelihood, Ben Johnson may find himself calling the shots in Jacksonville. His expressed desire to take on a head coaching role aligns well with the current openings.
While Chicago seems eager to woo Johnson, their persistent leadership issues stand as a potential barrier. Meanwhile, Jacksonville, with its own front office dynamics, appears poised for a possible shake-up, making them a more viable option.
There’s even a possibility he might return to Detroit, drawn by the city’s allure and his affection for the organization. For now, we’ll watch closely to see where this talented coordinator lands next season.
