8 Dream Patriots Head Coach Targets to Replace Bill Belichick in 2024

2. Ben Johnson, Lions offensive coordinator

Ironically enough, the Detroit Lions have been one of the most dominant teams in the NFL since midseason 2022. They started out 1-6 last year and then finished 8-2, giving them their first winning campaign since 2017. This year, they’ve been on a tear as well, winning eight of their first 10 games.

They’re not only winning the NFC North but also in play for the No. 1 seed in the conference. Most of that success is due to their highly efficient offense led by Ben Johnson. At 37 years old, Johnson is a hot name in the coaching ranks, and for good reason. He’s elevated the previously porous Lions offense to a top-10 scoring offense over the past two seasons.

He’s also taken Jared Goff and helped him go from a perceived draft bust to one of the most effective passers in the game. Last year, the former No. 1 overall pick had 4,438 yards with 29 touchdowns and just seven picks. So far in 2023, he’s again playing well with 3,075 yards and an 18-to-8 touchdown-to-interception ratio. 

Johnson’s ability to tailor his offense around the quarterback will be a huge draw for anyone looking for a new head coach. For New England, that could be a plus whether they want to give Mac Jones another chance to secure the job or make a change to a rookie. That’s just one of many reasons he should be in contention if they decide to make a move.