The Detroit Lions offence, which leads the league in points per game (33.3) and ranks second in yards per game (410.5) after 17 weeks, has likely been the most productive unit in the NFL this season. Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator, is the brains behind the offence, even though players like wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, running back Jahmyr Gibbs, and quarterback Jared Goff are the main players.
After taking over as offensive coordinator for Detroit in 2022, Johnson, a native of South Carolina, has become one of the NFL’s top coordinators and a top candidate for head coach in just three seasons.
The Chicago Bears have been the team most frequently linked to the Lions’ offensive coordinator since Chicago fired head coach Matt Eberflus on November 29. Despite this, Johnson will have a very competitive head coaching market this offseason. Johnson might be interested in the Bears since they have a lot of offensive potential and an exciting young quarterback in Caleb Williams.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler thinks the Jacksonville Jaguars might also be a destination for Ben Johnson if the team fires Doug Pederson at the end of the season, despite the Bears being the presumptive favourite to hire Johnson as head coach this offseason.
Additionally, since the Truman era, the Bears have not experienced consistent offensive success. Even in its best form, offensive masterminds don’t usually point to the Bears job and declare, “We will score 40 points per game there.” Given that the Bears’ three NFC North opponents have a combined 39-9 record this season, that division is fierce. Jacksonville might be the greatest choice because of its weak division, talented roster, lack of state income tax, small-market scrutiny, and excellent weather. The divisional rivals of the Jaguars are
Compared to Johnson’s opponents in the NFC North, the Jaguars’ divisional opponents are currently 19-29. As a result, Jacksonville No. 1 is owned by more league players than you may imagine. A lot of that now depends on your opinion of quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who hasn’t performed well. But maybe a new system will make the most of him. Additionally, the head coach may be able to influence the newly appointed general manager.
Despite their difficult 2024 campaign, Jacksonville has a respectable roster despite their injury woes. Despite having a mixed start to his career, former Clemson standout quarterback Trevor Lawrence still has a tonne of talent. Brian Thomas Jr., a 2024 No. 23 overall pick and rookie wide receiver, has amassed 1,179 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns thus far this season. In addition, the defence is loaded with talented players like cornerback Tyson Campbell and edge rushers Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker.
As Fowler mentioned, the Jaguars are considered an enticing job by many in the league and play in the weak AFC South division. This offseason, Johnson will have a lot of alternatives, including maybe staying with the Lions for another season. However, if the Jaguars head coaching position becomes open, the 38-year-old should give it significant consideration. Although Jacksonville hasn’t performed well the past two seasons, the team has several interesting players on the roster, and Johnson might be the head coach who brings the team back to life.