A rising star in coaching is Ben Johnson, who is currently in his third season as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator. Johnson’s name has swiftly risen to the top of the list for possible head coaching positions following an outstanding first two seasons as the Lions’ offensive coordinator. Under his direction, the Lions’ offence had been rejuvenated and was ready for great things. By 2024, Johnson’s reputation as one of the NFL’s most sought-after head coaching prospects has only grown stronger due to his prowess as a play-caller.
Although losing Johnson would be difficult, the Lions have Tanner Engstrand, a capable internal candidate, ready to step in. The Lions’ offensive comeback has been greatly aided by Engstrand, who is in his fifth season with the team and his second as coordinator of the passing game.
The Reasons Tanner Engstrand Is a Good Fit to Replace Johnson
1. Regularity and familiarity.
Consistency is one of the most crucial elements in sustaining a high-performing offence. Over the previous few seasons, Engstrand has worked closely with Johnson and head coach Dan Campbell, gaining a thorough understanding of the team’s offensive strategy. By elevating Engstrand, the Lions’ Ben Johnson-created system would be maintained with little interference to the offensive flow.
2. Background and Experience.
Tanner Engstrand is familiar with offensive coordination even though he hasn’t called plays in the NFL yet. Engstrand was the offensive coordinator at the University of San Diego before to joining the Lions, where he gained a solid reputation for coming up with creative plans and motivating his players. In the XFL, he also worked as the offensive coordinator for the D.C. Defenders, where he acquired more professional experience. His experience equips him with the skills he needs to take on the role of NFL coordinator without a hitch.
3. Engstrand’s offensive success with the Lions.
The Lions’ success has been largely attributed to Engstrand’s work as coordinator of passing games. The Lions’ passing attack finished sixth in yards-per-attempt (7.60), tied for fourth place with 30 passing touchdowns, and placed second in the NFL with 4,401 net passing yards in 2023. In addition, Detroit set franchise records for both total touchdowns (58) and total net yards (6,712). Engstrand’s ability to assist in moulding and enhancing a potent offence is demonstrated by this performance. Engstrand’s credentials are further cemented by the Lions’ dominance of the football offence over the first ten games of the 2024 campaign.
4. A seamless transition for the offence and Jared Goff.
The smooth transition it would offer quarterback Jared Goff and the rest of the offensive line is another important consideration in Tanner Engstrand’s possible promotion. Under Ben Johnson’s leadership, Goff has thrived, and Engstrand’s promotion would guarantee that he stays in a system he is already accustomed to. As the Lions continue to compete for titles, this consistency is essential to sustaining the offense’s high level of output and success.
The Case for Keeping the Lions’ Offensive Momentum Going
Engstrand is the obvious pick to keep the offence going if Ben Johnson does go for a head coaching position. He is the perfect person to take charge because of his extensive knowledge of the system and his proven track record of achievement. The relationship that has been established in Detroit might be upset by bringing in an outsider, particularly with a quarterback like Goff who benefits from consistency and familiarity.
Tanner Engstrand’s promotion would allow the Lions to keep up the offensive continuity that has been essential to their success while also providing their offensive players with a coach who is intimately familiar with their strengths and shortcomings. Maintaining stability with Engstrand would be a wise choice for Detroit’s future in a time when offensive consistency frequently makes the difference between success and failure.