By Mummy Grace 
NFL Rumors: Could Ben Johnson Leave the Lions for the Raiders?
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is one of the hottest names on the coaching carousel this offseason. With multiple teams eyeing him for head coaching roles, NFL insider Mike Florio thinks there’s only one team that could lure him away: the Las Vegas Raiders.
Florio shared his thoughts during a recent appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, discussing why the Raiders might have a shot—and why Johnson might just stick with Detroit instead.
“You look at the Raiders, where two days after firing their head coach, they also cleared out the GM,” Florio explained, referencing the early January housecleaning in Vegas. “That kind of alignment is more likely there if he takes the job. But the real question is: Does he want to leave the Lions? Especially for a Raiders team that needs a lot of work to become a contender.”
Florio believes Johnson’s choice boils down to two options: stay with the Lions or take the Raiders job.
Why Ben Johnson Should Stay in Detroit
Johnson has been instrumental in the Lions’ transformation from a struggling franchise to a legitimate Super Bowl contender. Alongside head coach Dan Campbell, he’s helped Detroit build a high-powered offense that’s taken the team further than fans could’ve imagined a few years ago.
The Lions are just one win away from making their second straight NFC Championship Game, and with their playoff run in full swing, Johnson’s decision could define his coaching career.
Florio also pointed out why Johnson might not be in a rush to become a head coach: “Not every guy wants to be the face of the team. I’ve heard Ben Johnson loves his role as the ‘mad scientist,’ designing trick plays and running the offense without the added stress of being the head coach.”
And he’s not wrong. Being a head coach comes with a lot more responsibility—and scrutiny. Florio even mentioned how Campbell himself has dealt with intense pressure, including being doxed by fans.
For now, Johnson seems to have the perfect setup in Detroit. He has creative freedom, alignment with the front office, and a team on the brink of greatness. Why leave that for the uncertainty of a rebuild?
What’s Next for Johnson?
Ultimately, only Ben Johnson knows what he wants for his career. Whether he chooses to stay in Detroit or take the job in Las Vegas, it’ll be a move that shapes his reputation as one of the NFL’s top coaching minds.
But first, Johnson has more immediate concerns. The Lions face the Washington Commanders in the Divisional Round on Saturday night, with a chance to continue their incredible season.
For now, Detroit fans can only hope their offensive mastermind sticks around to see this journey through.