Ben Johnson Potential Coaching Moves: What to Expect

As the NFL heads into the offseason, many teams are looking to fill head coaching vacancies. Among the most sought-after candidates are Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, and Aaron Glenn, the Lions' defensive coordinator. After a successful 2024 season, both coaches have garnered significant interest from multiple teams.

Ben Johnson's Rising Profile

Ben Johnson has emerged as a prominent figure in coaching discussions, especially following the Lions' remarkable performance this past season, ranking first in average points per game at 33.2 and second in total yards gained per game at 409.5. With quarterback Jared Goff setting personal bests, including 37 touchdown passes, Johnson’s strategic play-calling has played a vital role in their offensive success.

Coaching Interest

Recent reports indicate that teams like the Chicago Bears and New England Patriots are keen on interviewing Johnson for their head coaching positions. Aaron Glenn, who has also received interest from teams such as the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints, complements Johnson's coaching prowess, making them a formidable duo. However, Johnson has indicated a selective approach to interviews, having turned down opportunities with the Jets due to concerns over their quarterback situation.

Aaron Glenn's Defensive Impact

While Johnson has shone on the offensive side, Aaron Glenn has cemented his reputation through his leadership of the Lions' defense, which was scored a top-10 ranking despite facing numerous injuries throughout the season. The Lions' defense ranked seventh in points allowed, showcasing Glenn's ability to maintain a high-performance standard even under challenging circumstances. This impressive duality of offensive innovation and defensive resilience makes the Lions coaching staff particularly attractive.

Impact of Coaching Changes on Johnson's Future

The recent decision from Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan to retain general manager Trent Baalke can significantly influence Johnson's potential moves. Many believe that Baalke's reputation could deter high-profile coaching candidates from considering Jacksonville, which could further boost Chicago’s chances of landing Johnson as the Bears look to bolster their coaching staff. With a strong belief that Johnson doesn’t want to work under Baalke, the situation might favor the Bears if they express a genuine interest.

Potential Landing Spots

If the current trends continue, here are the potential landing spots for Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn:

1. Chicago Bears: With Johnson's offensive expertise and Glenn's defensive capability, they could rejuvenate the Bears into playoff contenders.
2. New England Patriots: If they pivot away from their current coaching staff, Johnson could provide a fresh, innovative approach to an offense that has struggled in recent seasons.
3. New York Jets and New Orleans Saints: While currently less likely for Johnson, these teams may still pursue him if their situations change.

Conclusion

As more teams look for head coaching talent, the spotlight on Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn will only intensify over the next few weeks. The decisions following the end of the 2024 season will shape the coaching landscape, and it's crucial for these immensely talented coordinators to find the right fit that aligns with their coaching aspirations and the players they would lead. The coming weeks will be pivotal for both coaches as they navigate through potential job offers and the questions looming over their future in the NFL.

Keywords: ben johnson, aaron glenn, lions coach, detroit lions coach, lions head coach, lions defensive coordinator