Ben Johnson Predicted to Leave Lions for Sneaky Potential Head Coaching Opening: Is He Ready for the Big Leap?
The Detroit Lions are enjoying a breakout season, and much of the credit lies with their offensive mastermind, Ben Johnson. The team’s offensive coordinator has transformed Jared Goff into one of the NFL’s most efficient quarterbacks and turned a young Lions offense into a juggernaut. But success comes at a cost, and Johnson’s rising stock may soon take him out of Detroit. Rumors are swirling that he could be a top candidate for an unexpected—and highly intriguing—head coaching opening.
While traditional coaching hotbeds like the Chicago Bears or Washington Commanders are seen as obvious fits, one sneaky contender could turn Johnson’s head: the Los Angeles Chargers. Brandon Staley, whose tenure as head coach has been riddled with questionable decisions and underwhelming results, may find himself on the hot seat. The allure of working with superstar quarterback Justin Herbert and a roster teeming with talent might be too tempting for Johnson to pass up.
The Appeal of the Chargers
If the Chargers part ways with Staley, they’ll be offering Johnson a dream scenario: a proven franchise quarterback in Herbert, offensive weapons like Keenan Allen and Austin Ekeler, and a fan base desperate for playoff success. In contrast to many rebuilding teams that often court rookie head coaches, the Chargers present a ready-made contender that only needs the right leader to unlock its potential.
For Johnson, the transition could be seamless. Known for his creative play-calling and ability to develop talent, he has already shown he can elevate quarterbacks like Goff. Imagine what he could do with Herbert—a generational talent who many believe has yet to reach his ceiling.
Will Johnson Leave the Lions?
The Lions are no strangers to coaching turnover, especially when it comes to coordinators. Johnson flirted with head coaching opportunities last offseason but ultimately decided to stay in Detroit. This year, however, the stakes are higher. The Lions’ offense has been one of the most consistent and dynamic in the league, and his reputation as an offensive innovator is only growing.
But Detroit fans won’t take kindly to losing their star coordinator just as the team is climbing out of decades of mediocrity. The Lions are finally legitimate contenders, and Johnson’s departure could jeopardize their hard-earned momentum.
The Downside of the Chargers Job
While the Chargers offer a more established roster, their job isn’t without pitfalls. The team is infamous for underperforming despite its talent, and management’s questionable decision-making—both in player contracts and coaching hires—could be a red flag. Johnson, known for valuing stability and culture, might be hesitant to jump into a situation where expectations are sky-high but organizational support could be shaky.
The Controversy: Should Johnson Even Be a Head Coach Yet?
Critics argue that Johnson may not be ready to leap into a head coaching role. He’s only been an offensive coordinator for two years, and some fear that skipping steps in his development could lead to disaster. Names like Josh McDaniels and Nathaniel Hackett are cautionary tales of coordinators who failed to transition into head coaching success.
But others counter that the NFL is a league of risk-takers, and Johnson’s meteoric rise makes him the perfect candidate to gamble on. After all, offensive minds like Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan have thrived despite taking head coaching roles relatively early in their careers.
The Verdict
If the Chargers job—or another sneaky opening—becomes available, Johnson will have to weigh his options carefully. Does he stay in Detroit, where he’s building something special with Dan Campbell, or does he take the plunge and risk everything for a chance at coaching greatness?
One thing is certain: Ben Johnson won’t stay under the radar for long. If the Lions’ offensive brilliance continues, NFL teams will be lining up to make him their next head coach. The only question is whether he’ll choose to stay loyal to Detroit or chase the brighter lights elsewhere.
For now, Detroit fans can only hope he finishes what he started in the Motor City.
