5 candidates to be the new Detroit Lions offensive coordinator

1. Ben Johnson, Lions tight ends coach

At this point, frankly, it would be a surprise if Johnson is not elevated to being the Lions’ new offensive coordinator. He was credited for his work as passing game coordinator late in the 2021 season, and quarterback Jared Goff has spoken about the fit between the two after indications the fit with Lynn was not good. The reviews of Johnson’s work as the offensive coordinator down at the Senior Bowl were strong.

Down in Mobile, after Campbell said he was in the mix, Johnson acknowledged he has had discussions about the offensive coordinator job. Assistant head coach/running backs coach Duce Staley also stands as an internal candidate to replace Lynn, but it’s unclear if he’s really in the discussion. Quarterbacks coach Mark Brunell is an unlikely internal candidate, but to totally dismiss him would be wrong.

Johnson has been credited with scheming up some plays that worked well late in the season, in particular as it related to getting the ball in the hands of Amon-Ra St. Brown. Combine that creativity with being a fit with Campbell’s general offensive philosophy, and we have the favorite to be the next Lions’ offensive coordinator until further notice.