By Mummy Grace 
If Ben Johnson leaves the Detroit Lions for a head coaching job, here are five possible candidates to replace him as the offensive coordinator:
5. Tanner Engstrand
Current Job: Lions Passing Game Coordinator
Engstrand’s rise through the Lions’ coaching ranks mirrors Johnson’s trajectory. He’s been with the Lions since 2020, working his way up from offensive assistant to passing game coordinator. Engstrand has an extensive coaching background, including stints as offensive coordinator at the University of San Diego and with the XFL’s DC Defenders. He’s considered a rising star and could take over if Johnson leaves, though there’s also the possibility he follows Johnson to another team.
4. Pete Carmichael
Current Job: Denver Broncos Senior Offensive Assistant
Carmichael has a long history with Sean Payton, having been with the New Orleans Saints from 2006 to 2023, most notably serving as the offensive coordinator from 2009 to 2022. Despite the challenges following Drew Brees’ retirement, Carmichael oversaw the ninth-best scoring offense in the league in 2023. His familiarity with Dan Campbell from their time together in New Orleans makes him a strong candidate for an interview if Johnson departs.
3. Ronald Curry
Current Job: Buffalo Bills Quarterbacks Coach
Curry spent eight years with the New Orleans Saints, working his way up from offensive assistant to quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator. He was a key figure in the Saints’ passing attack last season. Curry shares a history with Campbell from their time together in New Orleans, making him a candidate to consider. While he hasn’t been an offensive coordinator or play caller yet, his experience could make him a viable option.
2. Hank Fraley
Current Job: Lions Offensive Line Coach
Fraley has been a key figure in the Lions’ offensive line development and reportedly interviewed for the offensive coordinator position with the Seattle Seahawks. There was buzz that Fraley could follow Johnson to another team for an offensive coordinator role, but if he doesn’t leave this year, he could easily step into the coordinator role within the Lions if Johnson leaves.
1. Scottie Montgomery
Current Job: Lions Assistant Head Coach/Running Backs Coach
Montgomery has quickly earned respect within the Lions organization since replacing Duce Staley as the assistant head coach and running backs coach. His coaching background includes stints at Duke, East Carolina, and the Indianapolis Colts, with experience as an offensive coordinator. Montgomery is considered a top candidate for a promotion to offensive coordinator should Johnson leave, making him the No. 1 option.
Each of these candidates brings a unique background, and the Lions will likely prioritize continuity and familiarity with the system if they need to replace Johnson.