The Detroit Lions can breathe a sigh of relief as their offensive coordinator, Ben Johnson, has decided to stay put for another season. Johnson was a hot candidate for head coaching positions in the last two hiring cycles, but he has chosen to remain in Detroit.
According to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Johnson informed the Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders that he will return to the Lions. He had also interviewed for head coaching positions with the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Los Angeles Chargers, and Tennessee Titans.
This is the second time Johnson has withdrawn his name from consideration for a head coaching role. He previously interviewed with the Panthers, Houston Texans, and Indianapolis Colts before deciding to stay in Detroit.
Johnson’s decision to stay with the Lions is likely influenced by their recent success on offense. In 2023, the Lions scored the second-most points in franchise history and posted their first top-five finish in offensive DVOA since at least 1981. Additionally, the Lions are returning 38 of their 53 players and have the sixth-most cap space in the NFL this offseason, making them an attractive option for Johnson.
On the other hand, the Commanders and Seahawks are not in as favorable positions as the Lions. The Commanders are set to enter a rebuild, while the Seahawks need a defensive overhaul. Johnson would also have the daunting task of replacing Pete Carroll, the winningest coach in Seahawks franchise history.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Johnson’s asking price may have been a roadblock in his pursuit of a head coaching position. He was reportedly seeking a salary of at least $15 million per year.
One of the main reasons for Johnson’s decision to stay in Detroit is his relationship with head coach Dan Campbell. Johnson and Campbell have worked together since their time on the Miami Dolphins staff, and Johnson expressed his desire not to disappoint Campbell in an interview with Kevin Clark.
Despite some questionable play calls in the Lions’ NFC Championship collapse, Johnson’s commitment to Campbell and the Lions organization remains strong. With their offensive success and promising roster, the Lions have a chance to contend for a Super Bowl in the near future, and Johnson wants to be a part of that journey.
While Johnson may have missed out on a head coaching opportunity this time around, his decision to stay in Detroit shows his dedication to the team and his desire to continue building on their recent success. The Lions can now focus on the upcoming season with their offensive coordinator firmly in place, ready to lead their high-powered offense to even greater heights.
