Raiders Set to Hire Lion’s Offensive Line Coordinator

As the Detroit Lions prepare for their Divisional Round game against the Washington Commanders on Saturday, another tale is gaining traction off the field. Ben Johnson, the Lions’ offensive coordinator, is allegedly a top candidate for the Las Vegas Raiders’ head coaching job. After conducting virtual interviews with numerous organizations, including the Raiders, Johnson has apparently emerged as the clear favorite for the job, with latest reports indicating that the Raiders’ interest in him is mutual.

Raiders’ Growing Interest in Ben Johnson

Johnson interviewed with the Las Vegas Raiders, who are looking for a new head coach after firing their former one. Early reports suggested that the Raiders were particularly interested in Johnson, but new information from Raiders source Hondo Carpenter has shed light on Johnson’s budding relationship with the team. According to Carpenter, Johnson formed a bond with Tom Brady, the future Hall of Fame quarterback and current Raiders part-owner. Carpenter stated that Johnson and Brady “really hit it off in a big way,” and that their relationship has contributed significantly to the Raiders’ rising interest in the Lions’ offensive coordinator.

Raiders Willing to Pay Big for Their Guy

Carpenter also stated that the Raiders are willing to pay a competitive wage to secure Johnson, indicating that the franchise is completely committed to making him their next head coach. “I was told by an NFL executive who is very knowledgeable of the process, the same one who told me they did not think the Raiders were gonna get (New England Patriots coach Mike) Vrabel. They believe Ben Johnson is the guy to beat,” Carpenter told reporters. “They’d be astonished if someone other than Ben got the job. Tom Brady was incredibly impressed with him, and he was equally thrilled with Tom Brady.” These words demonstrate how seriously the Raiders are considering Johnson for the top post.

Ben Johnson’s Success with the Detroit Lions

Johnson’s rise to popularity as a coach is unsurprising given his outstanding record with the Detroit Lions. Under his leadership, the Lions ended the regular season with an impressive 15-2 record, clinching the NFC’s top seed. The team’s high-powered attack, which is among the best in the league, has played a significant role in their success this season. Johnson’s imaginative play-calling, versatility, and ability to maximize his players’ strengths have earned him a spot among the most sought-after coaching prospects this offseason.

A Pivotal Moment for Ben Johnson’s Career

Johnson is currently focused on leading the Lions through their postseason run, which begins with the Washington Commanders. However, the Raiders’ overwhelming interest, combined with the support of powerful players such as Tom Brady, leaves Johnson’s future in Detroit questionable. As the Lions seek to advance in the playoffs, it’s unclear whether Johnson will stay with the team or move to Las Vegas to take on a new task as the Raiders’ head coach.

Finally, Ben Johnson is swiftly emerging as the leader for the head coaching position with the Las Vegas Raiders, given to his stellar coaching background and Tom Brady’s strong endorsement. While Johnson continues to focus on his responsibilities with the Lions, it is evident that his career is at a crossroads, with the Raiders preparing to make a hefty offer. If Johnson does depart for Las Vegas, it will be a watershed event in both his career and the future of the Detroit Lions.