Updates – Ben Johnson Interview for patriots head coaching job….
The New England Patriots have recently completed a virtual interview with Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions, as part of their search for a new head coach. This interview marks the fourth candidate the Patriots have engaged with, following discussions with Byron Leftwich, Pep Hamilton, and Mike Vrabel.
Ben Johnson, 38, has been with the Lions since 2019 and was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2022. Under his leadership, the Lions’ offense has flourished, leading the NFL in touchdowns this season and consistently ranking in the top five in scoring over the past three years. His innovative play-calling and ability to maximize player talents have made him a sought-after candidate for head coaching positions across the league.
The interview between Johnson and the Patriots was conducted virtually, adhering to NFL protocols for teams currently in the playoffs. The Lions, having secured the NFC’s top seed with a 15-2 record, are on a postseason bye, allowing Johnson the opportunity to engage in interviews. Reports indicate that the meeting went exceptionally well, with NFL insider Dianna Russini describing the interview as “great.”
In addition to his meeting with the Patriots, Johnson has a busy interview schedule, including sessions with the Las Vegas Raiders, Chicago Bears, and Jacksonville Jaguars. Despite the interest from multiple teams, Johnson remains focused on the Lions’ playoff run, balancing his current responsibilities with the potential opportunity to ascend to a head coaching position in the NFL.
The Patriots are conducting a thorough search for their next head coach following the departure of Jerod Mayo after a 4-13 season. While Mike Vrabel, a former Patriots player and recently the head coach of the Tennessee Titans, is considered by many as a leading candidate, Johnson’s impressive track record and the positive outcome of his interview could influence the Patriots’ decision-making process.
As the Patriots continue their search, they are expected to evaluate all candidates meticulously to find the best fit for the organization’s future. With the NFL offseason underway, the team aims to make a decision promptly to begin preparations for the upcoming season.
For a more in-depth discussion on Ben Johnson’s candidacy and the Patriots’ coaching search, you can watch the following analysis:
