Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has made it clear that he won’t accept a head coaching job unless it’s the right fit. Known for his impressive work with the Lions, who currently sit at 12-1, Johnson isn’t rushing to leave one of the NFL’s most successful teams.
Unlike many coaches eager to advance, Johnson is taking a measured approach to the hiring process. He’s only interested in positions that genuinely appeal to him, stating that he’s not looking for “just a job.”
According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, Johnson has two main criteria for a potential move: organizational alignment and a team’s recognition of its flaws with a genuine willingness to address them. Johnson aims to sell teams on his vision and assess whether they are fully committed to it. His cautious approach is reflected in his decision to decline an in-person interview with the Carolina Panthers in 2023, despite being seen as a leading candidate for their head coach position.
In addition to his interest in the Carolina Panthers job, Ben Johnson has interviewed with several other NFL teams, including the Washington Commanders, Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles Chargers, and Atlanta Falcons. He also showed interest in the Chicago Bears’ head coaching position last year, but the Bears ultimately decided to keep Matt Eberflus.
Despite his rising profile and the increasing demand for his leadership, Johnson remains dedicated to the Lions for the time being. His loyalty has not gone unnoticed by head coach Dan Campbell, who has consistently praised Johnson for his commitment, having been with the team for six years.
Ben Johnson is a prominent name among the potential candidates for the Chicago Bears’ head coach position, following the firing of Matt Eberflus on Black Friday. Johnson joins other top contenders like Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, and former Titans head coach Mike Vrabel.
While the Bears are restricted from interviewing current coaches until the regular season concludes—possibly longer if those teams make the playoffs—Vrabel, who is not coaching this season, is available to interview at any time. This means the Bears could hire him immediately if they decide to pursue him.
The Chicago Bears may benefit from prioritizing an offensive-minded head coach to help develop rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, who has struggled significantly this season. While Williams has faced challenges, his lack of support from both the coaching staff and surrounding environment hasn’t helped. Interim head coach Thomas Brown had a tough debut, and former offensive coordinator Shane Waldron also struggled to make an impact.
Williams’ performance in Sunday’s 38-13 loss to the 49ers underscored the issues, as he threw for just 134 yards, and the Bears managed only 13 points. Many believe Ben Johnson could be the answer. As a proven offensive-minded coach, Johnson has the potential to help get Williams back on track and turn the Bears into a more potent offensive team.
Sources indicate the Bears are casting a wide net and plan to interview several candidates, but Johnson remains one of their top targets. His success in revitalizing Detroit’s offense and his thoughtful, deliberate approach to leadership make him an attractive option for the Bears.