Lions Coordinators Ben Johnson, Aaron Glenn Expected to Land Head Coaching Jobs

ALLEN PARK, Mich. — Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell confirmed Monday that offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn are expected to leave for head coaching positions following the team’s early playoff exit. The Lions’ 45-31 loss to the Washington Commanders in the NFC divisional round has accelerated the hiring process for the highly sought-after coaches.

“I would expect to lose both, but I haven’t been told anything,” Campbell said during a press conference at the team facility. “I just have a feeling, but I am prepared to lose both.”

ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter reinforced Campbell’s prediction, stating that Johnson and Glenn are the top candidates on the coaching market. “Once the Lions were eliminated, it accelerated the hiring cycle that much more,” Schefter said on the Pat McAfee Show. “I would imagine that both those guys have jobs no later than the middle of this week.”

Johnson, who orchestrated the NFL’s highest-scoring offense this season, is reportedly a frontrunner for the Las Vegas Raiders‘ head coaching vacancy. Glenn, known for his defensive acumen, is also expected to secure a head coaching role soon. Both coordinators are now eligible for in-person interviews and immediate hiring after the Lions’ season concluded.

Campbell emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity within the Lions’ system, particularly on offense, where quarterback Jared Goff has thrived. “This thing is set up for Goff to have success with our playmakers,” Campbell said. “I want to keep our terminology in place and make sure Goff is comfortable because he’s playing at a high level.”

The Lions have several in-house candidates to replace Johnson and Glenn, including offensive line coach Hank Fraley and wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle-El. Defensively, secondary coach Deshea Townsend and linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard are potential successors.

Despite the anticipated departures, Campbell vowed to uphold the team’s identity. “We’re going to stay true to who we are,” he said. “If you’re somebody that doesn’t feel comfortable with that, then this isn’t the job for you.”

The Lions finished the regular season with a 15-2 record, tied for the second-best in the NFL, but fell short of their Super Bowl aspirations. With Johnson and Glenn likely moving on, Detroit faces a critical offseason to ensure its success continues in 2024.