The Detroit Lions are enjoying the best regular season in franchise history. Under head coach Dan Campbell, the team sits at an impressive 12-1, leading the NFC as Week 15 approaches. Following a crucial divisional win over the Green Bay Packers, the Lions are set to host the Buffalo Bills at Ford Field in their next matchup.
While Detroit’s roster is one of the NFL’s deepest, much of the credit for the team’s success belongs to its coaching staff, particularly the dynamic duo of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. Glenn has led a dominant defense despite significant injuries, and Johnson has solidified his reputation as the league’s top offensive coordinator.
This success has made both coaches prime candidates for head coaching opportunities, with Glenn drawing attention for his defensive prowess. However, Johnson is arguably the most sought-after name on the market. At just 38 years old, he has been instrumental in revitalizing quarterback Jared Goff’s career and turning the Lions’ offense into one of the league’s most potent units.
The Case for Ben Johnson in Dallas
In an ESPN piece, Bill Barnwell urged the Dallas Cowboys to part ways with Mike McCarthy and offer Ben Johnson a five-year, $125 million contract to become the team’s next head coach. Johnson’s work in Detroit has been nothing short of transformative.
Consider the players who have thrived under his leadership: Amon-Ra St. Brown, once a fourth-round pick, is now a star receiver. Running back David Montgomery, who struggled to average 4.0 yards per carry during his tenure in Chicago, has excelled. Wideouts Josh Reynolds and Kalif Raymond, cut by Tennessee, have found success. And Jared Goff, now an MVP candidate, was once regarded as a throwaway piece in the Matthew Stafford trade.
While Johnson wouldn’t have Detroit’s elite offensive line or the same playmakers in Dallas, his ability to develop talent and elevate underappreciated players makes him an attractive candidate. For a franchise like the Cowboys, valued at over $10 billion by Forbes, investing in a coach of Johnson’s caliber—even at a record-setting price—could pay dividends.
Dallas’ Disappointing 2024 Season
The Cowboys are enduring a frustrating 2024 campaign, sitting at 5-8 entering Week 15 and likely missing the playoffs. While Dak Prescott’s season-ending hamstring injury in Week 9 has been cited as a major setback, Dallas was already struggling at 3-5 with Prescott under center. The team’s issues run deeper than one player.
Mike McCarthy, though a Super Bowl-winning coach, has seen his effectiveness wane in recent years. Since 2017, he has managed just one playoff victory. With the Cowboys’ championship aspirations unfulfilled, the franchise must consider a bold change.
Why Ben Johnson is the Right Fit
Hiring Johnson could bring fresh energy to Dallas. His offensive creativity would be a perfect match for Prescott and the Cowboys’ talented roster. Johnson’s extensive experience—working as an assistant quarterbacks and wide receivers coach for the Miami Dolphins (2013-2017) and as tight ends coach for the Lions (2020-2021)—has prepared him for this moment. Since becoming Detroit’s offensive coordinator in 2022, he has showcased his ability to elevate teams.
With the Cowboys in need of a new direction, Johnson offers the potential to transform the franchise. If hired, he could propel Dallas back into Super Bowl contention as early as 2025.
