Hire Ben Johnson

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Over the past three NFL seasons, the Detroit Lions have shown significant improvement in their offensive performance. Here's a breakdown of their rankings in key offensive categories from 2021 to 2023:

2021 Season (Pre-Ben Johnson)

- **Total Offense**: The Lions ranked 22nd in the NFL, averaging 321.9 yards per game.

- **Scoring Offense**: They were 25th, scoring an average of 19.1 points per game.

- **Passing Offense**: Ranked 19th, with 211.6 passing yards per game.

- **Rushing Offense**: Placed 22nd, averaging 110.3 rushing yards per game.

*Source: [Pro-Football-Reference](https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2021.htm)*

### 2022 Season (First Season with Ben Johnson)

- **Total Offense**: Improved to 11th, averaging 375.4 yards per game.

- **Scoring Offense**: Jumped to 5th, with an average of 26.6 points per game.

- **Passing Offense**: Ranked 8th, averaging 248.8 passing yards per game.

- **Rushing Offense**: Moved up to 11th, with 126.6 rushing yards per game.

*Source: [Pro-Football-Reference](https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2022.htm)*

### 2023 Season

- **Total Offense**: Further advanced to 3rd, averaging 394.8 yards per game.

- **Scoring Offense**: Maintained 3rd place, scoring 27.1 points per game.

- **Passing Offense**: Ranked 4th, with 270.9 passing yards per game.

- **Rushing Offense**: Placed 5th, averaging 135.9 rushing yards per game.

*Source: [Pro-Football-Reference](https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2023.htm)*

In 2024 at the time of this publishing, the Detroit Lions have the Number 1 scoring offense in the NFL

**Why Detroit Lions Offensive Coordinator Ben Johnson Could be the NFL’s Next Head Coach**

### 1. **Offensive Prowess and Creativity**

Ben Johnson’s work with the Lions offense has turned heads since he took over as the offensive coordinator. He’s successfully implemented a scheme that has helped players, from veterans like Jared Goff to emerging stars, reach new heights in performance. The Lions' offense has been consistently aggressive, balanced, and adaptive, enabling them to compete with even the toughest defenses. His ability to craft game plans that highlight his players' strengths is the kind of skillset highly coveted in a head coach.

### 2. **Proven Success with Player Development**

One of the strongest indicators of Johnson's head coaching potential is his impact on player development. Under his guidance, key players have seen significant improvements. He’s helped Jared Goff find new success, revitalizing his career after mixed seasons in Los Angeles, and he's built a dynamic rushing attack. His development of younger players like wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown demonstrates his ability to foster talent. Johnson’s success with nurturing individual growth aligns with what’s expected from a head coach who will oversee entire rosters.

### 3. **Leadership Skills and Respect in the Locker Room**

A key element of any successful head coach is the ability to lead and inspire a team, and Johnson has done just that in Detroit. Players consistently speak highly of him, praising his football intelligence, patience, and effective communication. His rapport with players goes beyond play-calling; he has a reputation as a coach who truly invests in his team’s success and believes in a player-driven culture. This respect and admiration he commands in the locker room indicate he’s someone who can rally a full roster and coaching staff as a head coach.

### 4. **Success Against Top Defenses**

Another critical factor in Johnson's potential head coaching profile is his ability to perform against elite defenses. The Lions’ offense has had some of its best games against top NFL defenses, thanks to Johnson’s meticulous planning and adaptability. This track record demonstrates his readiness to face the kinds of high-stakes, high-pressure scenarios head coaches encounter every week.

### 5. **Analytical and Data-Driven Approach**

Johnson has shown an aptitude for incorporating analytics into his strategy, embracing the modern tools that give NFL teams a competitive edge. He’s able to integrate data insights seamlessly into his playbook, adapting his game plans based on opponents’ weaknesses and his team’s strengths. His openness to analytics suggests he’s prepared for the decision-making demands placed on NFL head coaches.

### 6. **Experience with Multiple NFL Systems**

With a career that includes a diverse set of roles across multiple teams and coaching styles, Johnson has built a well-rounded resume that would support him as a head coach. He’s gained valuable insights working under different head coaches, which allows him to bring a breadth of knowledge and varied approaches to game management and team building. This exposure to multiple NFL systems has equipped him with a unique perspective, enhancing his adaptability and resourcefulness.

### Conclusion: Ready for the Next Step

With his offensive innovation, strong leadership qualities, and player-first mentality, Ben Johnson stands out as one of the most promising candidates for an NFL head coaching role. His ability to improve team performance, develop talent, and adapt to the evolving demands of the NFL make him a standout. For the Chicago Bears, Ben Johnson could be exactly what they need to lead their organization forward.

 According to NFL insider Albert Breer, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson showed genuine interest in the Chicago Bears' head coaching position during the 2024 offseason. Breer noted that Johnson was particularly interested in the job if it became available. Source: https://www.si.com/nfl/bears/league-insider-stokes-the-bears-and-ben-johnson-possibility