The New England Patriots are actively seeking to fill their head coach position and have quickly reached out to Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, for an interview. Following the recent firing of coach Jerod Mayo, the Patriots expressed their interest in Johnson on Monday. According to reports, Johnson is expected to engage in the interview process.
Johnson, who has not held a head coaching position before, has proven to be an exceptionally effective offensive mind during his three seasons with the Lions. Under his guidance, Detroit has developed a high-powered offense, ranking among the league’s best, with an impressive average of 33.2 points per game this season. His collaboration with quarterback Drake Maye could be a game-changer for the Patriots, particularly given Maye’s strong rookie performance despite the team’s overall struggles in the 2024 season.
With a background that includes experience as a graduate assistant and a rise through the coaching ranks, Johnson has shown versatility and a keen understanding of offensive strategy. His record with the Lions, which has seen significant improvement on the field, positions him as a strong candidate in a competitive coaching market. Furthermore, he will have the opportunity to meet with other teams, including the Chicago Bears, which highlights the growing interest in his talent.
While Mike Vrabel, a former Titans head coach and three-time Super Bowl champion with the Patriots, is widely considered a frontrunner for the head coaching role, exploring Johnson’s innovative approach could yield valuable insights for the future of the franchise.
This search could represent a pivotal moment for the Patriots as they look to revive their offensive capabilities and restore their status among NFL contenders. Given Johnson’s success with the Lions, Patriots fans may have reasons to feel hopeful about the possibilities that lie ahead for their team under new leadership.
In summary, the Patriots’ decision to consider Ben Johnson as a potential head coach could bring a fresh perspective and much-needed offensive rejuvenation to the organization, especially with the promising talent of quarterback Drake Maye on board.