New Report Challenges Recent Buzz Around Ben Johnson’s Coaching Future

Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has been at the center of head coaching rumors, with many linking him to the Las Vegas Raiders.

Johnson, who carefully selected his interview opportunities, has prioritized teams where he sees a viable fit. However, one of those positions has already been filled, leaving three openings he initially pursued: the Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Raiders.

While the Raiders have reportedly gone to great lengths to attract Johnson, no decisions can be finalized until the Lions’ playoff run concludes. Meanwhile, a new report has shifted the narrative, highlighting that Johnson remains in serious contention for other head coaching roles.

Ben Johnson a Leading Candidate for Chicago Bears Job

On Thursday, Fox Sports NFL Insider Jordan Schultz appeared on The Herd With Colin Cowherd, stating that Johnson is a top candidate for the Bears’ head coaching vacancy.

“For all intents and purposes, the Chicago job is a two-horse race between Mike McCarthy and Ben Johnson,” Schultz explained. He also noted that Brian Flores could remain in contention if his interview impresses team decision-makers.

.@Schultz_Report says the Chicago Bears head coaching search is a two-horse race between Mike McCarthy and Ben Johnson pic.twitter.com/Y4x0lx6iP8

— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) January 16, 2025

The Bears’ head coaching search is particularly focused on finding a leader who can build around quarterback Caleb Williams, the presumed first overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Schultz and Cowherd emphasized Williams’ preference for an offensive-minded head coach, as Williams shared during an appearance on Amon-Ra St. Brown’s podcast this week.

“Selfishly, I want an offensive-minded guy so I can build with him and be with that coach for the next 19, 17, 15 years,” Williams said.

However, Williams acknowledged the importance of finding a coach with a holistic vision, pointing to the Bears’ struggles under former head coach Matt Eberflus.

Raiders Still in the Mix, But Uncertainty Looms

Despite being widely considered the Raiders’ top candidate, Johnson’s ultimate destination may depend on which team is willing to wait until the Lions’ postseason run concludes. While the Raiders, Bears, and Jaguars are all reportedly interested, it’s unlikely all three will remain in contention if Detroit advances deeper into the playoffs.

The Bears’ willingness to wait, coupled with their focus on Caleb Williams’ development, may give them an edge in landing Johnson. That said, the Jaguars and Raiders remain strong contenders, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding Johnson’s future.

Conclusion

Ben Johnson’s next move remains unclear as his stock continues to rise in head coaching searches. While the Raiders appear to be leading the race, the Bears and Jaguars are still very much in play. The coming weeks—and the Lions’ playoff trajectory—will likely determine which organization secures one of the NFL’s hottest coaching prospects.

In other news, Lions Make Last-Minute Announcement Before First Playoff Game