For the second offseason in a row, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is a popular coaching candidate. This time around, it sounds like he's a serious contender for at least two jobs.
Earlier in the hiring cycle, the Chicago Bears were mentioned as a suitor for Johnson. They certainly have the talent to compete in the NFC, all they need is an offensive play-caller who can maximize Caleb Williams' potential. Unfortunately for the storied franchise, it doesn't sound like Johnson will take on that responsibility.
Sports radio host Dan Patrick reported on Tuesday that Johnson doesn't want to be in the same division as the Lions. Although this report hasn't been confirmed, it suggests that he would steer clear of the Bears.
"I was told last night that [for] Ben Johnson, the Raiders make more sense because he doesn't want to go against the Lions and Dan Campbell being in the same conference," Patrick said, via The Sporting News. "Whether that is true or not, I think also the allure of Tom Brady [was a factor], and Brady is making decisions with the Raiders. It feels like he is making the decisions with the Raiders."
Lions fans would love Johnson more than they already do if he turns down the Bears. To be honest though, they probably won't care where he ends up if he helps the franchise win its first Super Bowl in the coming weeks.
As for the Raiders, they seem to be a real contender for Jonson. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the team's pursuit of the talented coordinator is being spearheaded by Tom Brady.
"Yet thanks in part to the involvement of Brady, who sources say personally vouched for Johnson and implored him to take the interview through his agent, Johnson spoke with them. Essentially, Brady recruited Johnson to interview," Rapoport said.
Johnson was also a candidate for the New England Patriots before they agreed to a deal with Mike Vrabel. It'll be fascinating to see where he ends up this offseason.
