Tom Brady's presence and high salary could change the NFL coaching merry-go-round.
Ben Johnson, the Lions' offensive coordinator and perhaps the crown jewel of this NFL coaching cycle, is reportedly close to becoming the Raiders' next head coach.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that “people involved in the job” believe that “Mr. Johnson is the frontrunner.” And frankly, there are a lot of people who think he has it figured out. ”
This would come as a surprise considering Johnson has been cautious in choosing his head coaching position after missing out on opportunities the past two offseasons when he was considered a championship favorite.
Johnson is also believed to prefer jobs with young quarterbacks, leading to speculation that the Bears, led by Caleb Williams, or the Jaguars, led by Trevor Lawrence, are likely options.
Las Vegas lacks that potential at the position, with Gardner Minshew and Aidan O'Connell taking the majority of the snaps last season. The Raiders have the No. 6 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and both Shedule Sanders and Cam Ward are interesting early options.
Johnson met with the Bears, Jaguars and Raiders last week, and Detroit has a bye week until Saturday's game against the Commanders in the NFC Divisional Round.
Brady, a minority owner, has no idea who will be the team's next head coach after last week urging owner Mark Davis to fire head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco after the 4-13 season. He is said to have an important say.
Radio host Dan Patrick said: Brady’s “charm” Johnson helped revive the career of quarterback Jared Goff and turned the Lions into one of the NFL's top offenses, boosting the Raiders' chances of acquiring him.
Pro Football Talk also reported Raiders offer 'huge' offer to Johnson Even though the team has yet to meet the Rooney Rule of directly interviewing two minority candidates. Johnson himself only met virtually with the team.
The Raiders are one of six spots remaining as the Bears, Jaguars, Jets, Saints and Cowboys search for their next head coach.
The Jets did not believe Johnson was a good fit and did not request an interview.
The Patriots, who met with Johnson, have already hired franchise legend Mike Vrabel as their next head coach.
