Ben Johnson has quickly become one of the most sought-after names in coaching circles following the Detroit Lions’ impressive offensive performance since he was named as the team’s offensive coordinator. As the Lions prepare for a deep playoff (hopefully Super Bowl) run, Johnson’s success has made him an obvious candidate for head coaching vacancies, with the Las Vegas Raiders reportedly leading the charge to secure his services.
Vincent Bonsignore of the Las Vegas Review-Journal highlighted the growing momentum for Johnson in connection with the Raiders’ ongoing search for a new head coach. The Raiders are in the midst of a rebuild, and Johnson’s ability to turn the Lions’ offense into one of the league’s most efficient units has made him an attractive option.
Why the Raiders Are Interested in Johnson
Johnson, 38, has gained widespread recognition for his innovative playcalling and offensive schemes that helped the Lions break into the NFL’s elite offensive ranks. His work with quarterback Jared Goff and the development of players like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, Jameson Williams, and others, has turned Detroit into a potent offensive force. The Lions finished the regular season ranked among the top teams in both points scored and offensive efficiency.
With the Raiders facing uncertainty after the firing of head coach Antonio Pierce, the organization is reportedly looking for a fresh face to lead them into the future. Johnson’s creativity and ability to maximize the talent around him make him an appealing candidate for a team in need of a new offensive identity.
Johnson’s Growing Reputation Around the League
Johnson’s rise to prominence has been meteoric, with his influence becoming more apparent as the Lions continue to improve.
In addition to his offensive acumen, Johnson’s ability to connect with players and build a cohesive unit has been a key factor in his success. His approach is built around maximizing player strengths and tailoring game plans to suit the skill sets of the offense. These qualities align perfectly with the needs of a Raiders team that has a talented but inconsistent roster.
The Competition for Johnson’s Services
While the Raiders may be the front-runner, Johnson’s name has been linked to other head coaching vacancies around the league. In fact, the Lions OC has already completed virtual interviews with four teams. NOTE: Johnson interviewed with the Patriots but they have already hired Mike Vrabel.
The Big Picture: What’s Next for Ben Johnson?
As the coaching search intensifies, Johnson’s future with the Lions is uncertain. While the Lions would love to retain him as part of their growing program, the prospect of becoming a head coach for a team like the Raiders presents a significant opportunity for the young coordinator.
For Detroit, losing Johnson would be a blow, but the team’s rising success is a testament to his leadership. The Lions will have to weigh how to continue developing their offense, even if Johnson decides to leave for a head coaching position.
The Bottom Line: Ben Johnson’s Future in the NFL
Ben Johnson’s future is certainly bright, and his potential move to the Las Vegas Raiders is gaining significant momentum. Whether he stays in Detroit or moves on to a head coaching role, Johnson’s ability to transform offenses will continue to make him one of the hottest coaching commodities in the NFL.
With his offensive mind and rising reputation, it’s only a matter of time before Johnson becomes a head coach — whether it’s with the Raiders or another franchise. The Lions will certainly be hoping they can keep him around for the long term, but it’s clear that Johnson’s stock is soaring, and the Raiders are positioning themselves to make a big play.
