The Buzz Around Lions OC Ben Johnson Keeps Heating Up
By Brad Berreman
Stephen Maturen/GettyImages
Alright, folks, let’s talk about Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. If you’ve been paying attention, it feels like every week there’s a new rumor about where he’s heading next. One minute, it’s this team; the next minute, it’s that team. Classic coaching carousel drama.
Now, the Chicago Bears have been a popular name tied to Johnson. Word on the street was he had his eye on that job last year, but then Matt Eberflus got another chance. But here’s the kicker: it’s not clear if Johnson even wants the Bears gig anymore. The coaching search over there has been all over the place—one day they want a defensive guru, the next day it’s someone offensive-minded like Johnson.
But wait, there’s a new contender!
A Fresh Suitor in the Coaching Sweepstakes
The latest chatter from some well-connected NFL insiders (thanks, ESPN’s Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler) is that Johnson might have his sights set on a different job. Can you guess? Drumroll, please… Jacksonville Jaguars!
Yep, Fowler made a strong case for why Jacksonville might actually be the best move for Johnson. Let’s break it down:
- Weak division: The AFC South is, well, kinda meh right now. The other teams in the division are a combined 19-29. Compare that to the Lions’ NFC North, which is a lot tougher.
- Sunny Florida vibes: No state income tax (cha-ching), less media pressure, and year-round great weather. What’s not to love?
- Trevor Lawrence factor: Sure, Lawrence hasn’t exactly lived up to his No. 1 overall hype lately, but maybe Johnson thinks he’s the guy who can fix that.
But there’s a catch. The Jaguars might need to clean house to make this happen. That includes possibly firing GM Trent Baalke and bringing in someone Johnson clicks with—maybe even a Lions front-office alum. Talk about keeping it in the family, huh?
What’s Next for Ben Johnson?
So, we’ve got two NFL insiders now hinting that Jacksonville might be the place for Johnson. Is it a lock? Not yet, but let’s just say the buzz is real. If the Jaguars want him, they’ll need to make it worth his while—and honestly, it sounds like they might.
Stay tuned, folks. The coaching carousel is just getting started, and Ben Johnson’s name will definitely be spinning around for a while