Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn in the Spotlight as Raiders Pursue Their Next Head Coach

The Race for the Raiders’ Head Coaching Position
As the Detroit Lions prepare for their highly anticipated 2025 playoff debut, two of their coordinators, Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn, are attracting significant attention for head coaching vacancies across the NFL. Among the suitors, the Las Vegas Raiders are emerging as strong contenders to secure Johnson as their next head coach.

In the wake of Antonio Pierce’s dismissal, the Raiders have moved swiftly, narrowing their options and reportedly favoring Johnson. According to Vincent Bonsignore of Vegas Nation, Johnson is currently the frontrunner, with an interview conducted on January 10, along with two other candidates.

“A lot of things are lining up and pointing to Ben Johnson to the Raiders,” Bonsignore shared in a tweet, adding, “Nothing surprises me in this league, though. Some really good coaches have a chance to change things when they interview.”

Competing Candidates and Backup Plans
While Johnson remains a favorite, the Raiders have also explored other possibilities. Interviews were held with Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Additionally, former Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll has reportedly been in discussions, fueling speculation about his potential return to the NFL.

Bonsignore further noted that Carroll might serve as a backup option if Johnson does not take the role. The decision-making process is expected to involve co-owner and NFL legend Tom Brady, whose influence could shape the team’s future direction.

Beyond the Raiders, Johnson has been linked to several other teams, including the Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, and Jacksonville Jaguars. Meanwhile, Glenn is a strong contender for the head coaching roles with the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints.

A History of Turnover in the Raiders’ Leadership
The Raiders are no strangers to change at the helm. Since Art Shell’s tenure from 1989 to 1994, the team has struggled to maintain stability in its head coaching position. Over the past two decades, the franchise has seen a revolving door of leadership, with no head coach lasting more than five years.

Notable figures like Jon Gruden and Bill Callahan achieved success but parted ways with the organization under differing circumstances. Since 2015, the Raiders have had four full-time head coaches, with only Jack Del Rio and Rich Bisaccia managing to deliver winning seasons during their respective stints.

The rapid turnover continued with Mark Davis, the team’s owner, recently firing general manager Tom Telesco, who had been in his role for less than a year. With both a new head coach and general manager to appoint, Davis faces critical decisions that could define the Raiders’ trajectory for years to come.

What Ben Johnson Brings to the Table
As one of the NFL’s most sought-after offensive minds, Ben Johnson has been instrumental in transforming the Detroit Lions into an offensive powerhouse. Under his guidance, the Lions boast a dynamic and innovative playbook that has consistently outperformed expectations.

Johnson’s ability to develop talent, craft creative schemes, and adapt to in-game challenges makes him an appealing candidate for a team like the Raiders, who are in desperate need of stability and direction.

Challenges and Opportunities for the Next Head Coach
Whoever takes the reins as the Raiders’ next head coach will inherit a team with undeniable potential but significant challenges. From roster restructuring to fostering a winning culture, the incoming leader will have their work cut out for them.

If Ben Johnson secures the role, his offensive expertise could breathe new life into a franchise hungry for success. Alternatively, candidates like Aaron Glenn or Pete Carroll offer unique strengths that could also steer the Raiders toward a brighter future.

A New Chapter Awaits
As the Raiders move closer to finalizing their decision, the spotlight remains firmly on Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn. With the potential to shape the team’s destiny, the next head coach will face immense pressure and high expectations. Will the Raiders finally find the stability they’ve been searching for, or will the cycle of change continue? Only time will tell.

For now, the NFL world watches as Las Vegas makes its move. The stakes are high, and the future of one of football’s most storied franchises hangs in the balance.