The Detroit Lions have entered an offseason unlike any head coach Dan Campbell and his staff have faced before, as they may soon be searching for both a new offensive and defensive coordinator. Following their playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn are now free to interview for head coaching positions, either in-person or virtually, per NFL rules.
NFL analysts are shedding light on the futures of Johnson and Glenn, revealing potential landing spots and the timing of their departures.
Status of Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn Landing New Gigs
According to a January 20 report from Tom Pelissero, Ben Johnson is already on his way out and is expected to become the Chicago Bears’ new head coach.
In a post on X, Pelissero shared, “A new day in Chicago: The #Bears are finalizing a deal to hire Ben Johnson as their head coach, per sources.” He added that Johnson is set to fly to Chicago, with contract parameters already agreed upon, so barring any unexpected complications, Johnson will soon join one of Detroit’s NFC North rivals.
This aligns with comments made earlier by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, who predicted on January 20 that both Johnson and Glenn would secure head coaching roles “no later than the middle of this week.”
Additionally, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reiterated on January 19 that Johnson is a prime candidate for the Las Vegas Raiders. Rapoport noted that the Raiders are working to schedule an in-person interview with Johnson, emphasizing that he “will have options.”
Meanwhile, Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported on January 20 that Johnson is in the process of finalizing his interview schedule. She identified the Raiders, Bears, and Jaguars as the teams showing strong interest but suggested that Johnson may not meet with all three as he determines his next move.
As for Aaron Glenn, his path forward is becoming more defined. FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz reported that Glenn has an in-person interview scheduled with the New York Jets on Tuesday, January 21. If the Jets don’t secure a deal with him, Glenn is also set to meet with the New Orleans Saints on Wednesday, January 22.
Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports echoed these predictions, naming the Jets and Saints as the most likely destinations for Glenn, citing his prior connections to both teams during his NFL career.
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Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell Talks Coordinator Situation
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Dan Campbell acknowledged the likelihood of losing both coordinators, though he hasn’t received official confirmation.
“I’ve got a feeling, but I’m prepared to lose both,” Campbell admitted. He also expressed confidence in his staff, saying, “We’ve got guys on staff that are more than qualified to be outstanding in those roles, but that does not mean I’m not looking outside either.”
Campbell emphasized the importance of maintaining the team’s identity, stating, “I want what I believe is going to be as close to what we have been as possible. We don’t lose what we’re about and our identity. We’re going to stay true to who we are.”
