Ben Johnson is returning to Detroit in 2023.
The 36-year-old, offensive coordinator who was presumably one of the more sought-after head coaching candidates this offseason, told interested teams he’s staying with the Lions saying “Detroit is building something special and wants to see it through.”
Johnson had already interviewed virtually with the Texans and Colts. As Pelissero mentioned as well, he was slated to travel to Carolina on Wednesday to interview with the Panthers where there was some rumbling around the league that he was already a favorite there.
After taking over for Anthony Lynn, Johnson was and continues to be a rising star in the NFL coaching circles. He helped guide an incredibly dynamic Lions offense this season as the team finished in the top ten of most offensive categories including finishing fifth in points scored (26.6 ppg), fourth in total yards, and eighth in passing. Jared Goff’s resurgence this past season can also be attributed to Johnson’s guidance which is incredible in and of itself considering what Sean McVay couldn’t do with him in Los Angeles.
One of the few bright spots of the Quinntricia era, Johnson started with the Lions in 2019 as an offensive quality control coach before becoming the tight ends coach the following season.
It’s a weird time for the Lions as a lot of things have been falling into place for them. Nonetheless, Johnson’s return next season is going to go a long way in Detroit’s chances to take the NFC North.