Lions OC Ben Johnson is staying, turning down a possible chance to be NFL head coach, an AP source says

Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has opted to remain with the team for the upcoming NFL season, rejecting potential opportunities to become a head coach elsewhere, as disclosed by an anonymous source familiar with the matter. Although Johnson was a top candidate for coaching positions in Washington and with the Seattle Seahawks, he has chosen to continue his role with the Lions. The 37-year-old, who assumed the position of offensive coordinator in 2022 under coach Dan Campbell, played a pivotal role in the team’s success during the postseason. The Lions secured two playoff victories, marking the first time since 1957 that the franchise won multiple playoff games in the same postseason. Additionally, they reached the NFC championship game for the first time in 32 years. Johnson had been a leading contender for the coaching position with the Washington Commanders, interviewing with them before the Lions’ playoff exit. Known as a “rock star” by Campbell, Johnson began his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins in 2012 and has since contributed significantly to Jared Goff’s development as a quarterback, previously serving as the receivers coach for the Dolphins in 2018 before joining Detroit. Last year, he interviewed for the head coaching position with the Houston Texans, who ultimately hired DeMeco Ryan.

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