Ben Johnson, the innovative Detroit Lions offensive coordinator, will return to the team for the 2024 season, per an NFL Network report.
Johnson was thought to be a candidate for the head coaching openings for the Washington Commanders and Seattle Seahawks. He informed the teams that he’s staying with the Lions and wants another shot at bringing the Lombardi Trophy to Detroit, per the report on Tuesday.
The Lions lost 34-31 to the 49ers in Sunday’s NFC Championship game.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Johnson’s asking price “spooked some teams.” Johnson is 37 and will likely have more opportunities in the future.
Coach Dan Campbell was asked on Monday about his plans to replace Johnson if he should move on.
“If it comes to that, that’s, obviously, very important. I mean, he was a critical piece for us. He’s a critical piece. And I’m not worrying about that just yet. I need to at least get two hours of sleep and then I’ll begin,’’ Campbell said.
Johnson has been with the Lions since he was hired as the offensive quality control coach in 2019. He was promoted to tight ends coach in 2020 and Campbell kept him on staff when he was hired in 2021. Johnson was promoted to pass game coordinator midway through the 2021 season and promoted to offensive coordinator prior to the 2022 season.
This season the LIons finished 12-5, won the NFC North and won two playoff games.
At the end of the regular season the Lions’ offense was ranked third in the NFL, averaging 394.8 yards per game with 58 touchdowns.
Many of the key offensive players including Jared Goff will return next season to a system, run by Johnson, that they are familiar with after playing in it for two seasons.
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