Ben Johnson appears quite interested in 1 head coach job

Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson answers a question before OTAs at Detroit Lions headquarters in Allen Park on Thursday, June 1, 2023. Photo Credit: Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK

It appears to be a foregone conclusion that Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will land a head coaching job this offseason. It may be that one stands out above all the others to him.

Johnson was asked about the Washington Commanders opening Thursday, specifically the team’s recent hire of 49ers assistant GM Adam Peters as their new general manager. Johnson, who has a scheduled interview with the Commanders, had plenty of positive things to say about Washington’s new boss.

“I’ve heard nothing but fantastic things about him from people that have worked with him directly or have met him over the course of scouting on the road, so look forward to meeting him and talking more,” Johnson said.

It sounds like Johnson has been doing his research. That would be no surprise, since he has emerged as the perceived favorite to land that job once the Lions’ playoff run ends.

The Commanders are seeking a new coach after firing Ron Rivera at the end of the season. Johnson is regarded as one of the game’s most skilled young offensive minds and has interest from virtually every team with an opening. That makes it even more notable that he was willing to single out Washington at this point.