5 potential replacements for Jaguars HC Doug Pederson if things go sideways in 2024

3. Ben Johnson, Lions offensive coordinator

Here's another offensive coordinator who garnered consideration this past hiring cycle but chose to remain with his team. It's understandable, Ben Johnson played a massive role in helping the Detroit Lions reach the AFC Championship game for the first time in team history. Sure, they won an NFL championship but that was before the merger, the point being that Johnson made it possible to accomplish such an important milestone.

Of course, head coach Dan Campbell should get more credit. He also deserves praise for recognizing Johnson's potential. Back when he was hired in 2021, he could've easily moved on from Johnson, who was a holdover from Matt Patricia's staff at the time. Instead, Campbell made him a passing game coordinator and promoted him to offensive coordinator in 2022.

With Johnson at the helm, Jared Goff has enjoyed a career revival. Similarly, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown has become a mainstay of the Lions offense. Other players who've flourished under Johnson include but aren't limited to wide receiver Josh Raynolds, running back Jahmyr Gibbs, and tight end Sam LaPorta.

Players' development isn't the only area in which Johnson excels though. Detroit's offense has progressively gotten better with him calling the shots. Just last year, they ranked fifth in points scored and third in total yards. While teams in need of a head coach were turned off by his asking price — he reportedly wanted $15 million per year — you can make the case that it's an investment worth making.

For the time being, Johnson has returned to the Lions, and if they have another succesful season, his rates will keep going up.