Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is a picky man.
Johnson is expected to be among the hottest head-coaching candidates in the upcoming hiring cycle. The Lions (12-1) lead the league in points scored (32.1) due in part to his elite play calling.
Although he should have many suitors, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer reported Johnson isn’t “in a rush” to leave Detroit and has two requirements for clubs that want to hire him.
“He has two criteria: organizational alignment and recognition from a team of its mistakes with a willingness to fix them,” wrote Breer in his Monday column. “He will sell teams on his vision, to see whether they’re willing to go all in.”
According to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, Johnson interviewed with five teams this past offseason: the Commanders, Seahawks, Panthers, Chargers and Falcons. He quickly removed himself from consideration for the Seahawks’ and Commanders’ openings.
Does that mean Johnson will stay in Detroit? Don’t count on it. He seemingly has his eye on one job.
“A lot people in the league feel like Ben Johnson wants to be with the Bears, and I’m in no position to refute it,” Sports Illustrated’s Matt Verderame recently told CHGO Sports. “If he were willing to take the job, he is the guy.”
The Bears have fired offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and HC Matt Eberflus this season. Despite the dysfunction, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams has flashed star potential.
Through his first 13 starts, Williams is 4-9 but has completed 62.2% of his passes for 2,746 yards, 16 touchdowns and five interceptions. Johnson may feel he can elevate the 2024 No. 1 overall pick’s game.
Johnson could be leaking his criteria to let the Bears know what he wants. Perhaps Chicago will meet his demands.