As the NFL head coaching carousel begins to spin, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is emerging as one of the hottest names in the 2025 coaching cycle. While the Chicago Bears are rumored to be heavily pursuing Johnson as their next head coach, recent buzz has linked him to another intriguing opportunity: the Jacksonville Jaguars.
With the Jaguars potentially moving on from head coach Doug Pederson after a disappointing season, Johnson is being touted as the “best fit” to take over and help the team maximize its potential, particularly with franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence at the helm.
Why Ben Johnson Fits in Jacksonville
Ben Johnson has been instrumental in revitalizing the Lions’ offense, turning them into one of the NFL’s most dynamic units. Under his leadership, quarterback Jared Goff has enjoyed a career resurgence, and the Lions have consistently ranked among the top in points and yards per game.
For the Jaguars, who possess a wealth of offensive talent—including Trevor Lawrence, running back Travis Etienne, and wide receivers Calvin Ridley and Christian Kirk—Johnson’s offensive expertise could be the key to unlocking their full potential.
NFL insider Adam Caplan recently noted:
“If Jacksonville is serious about taking their offense to the next level, Ben Johnson is the guy. He’s innovative, knows how to adapt to his personnel, and has a proven track record of elevating quarterbacks. Pairing him with Trevor Lawrence would be a dream scenario.”
The Jaguars’ Coaching Situation
The Jaguars entered the 2025 season with high expectations following back-to-back playoff appearances under Doug Pederson. However, injuries, inconsistent performances, and questionable game management have left the team struggling to live up to those expectations. With Jacksonville on the verge of missing the playoffs, speculation about Pederson’s future has intensified.
Should the Jaguars decide to make a change, Johnson’s name would likely be at the top of their list.
Competition from the Bears and Other Teams
While Jacksonville might be an ideal landing spot for Johnson, the Bears are rumored to be aggressively pursuing him to replace head coach Matt Eberflus, who was fired midseason. Chicago, armed with two top-five draft picks and young quarterback Justin Fields (or potentially a new rookie QB), offers its own unique appeal.
In addition to the Bears, several other teams with head coaching vacancies—including the Washington Commanders and the Los Angeles Chargers—are also reportedly interested in Johnson.
What Makes Johnson a Hot Commodity
Johnson, 37, is known for his creative play-calling, ability to design schemes that exploit defenses, and knack for developing talent. His work with the Lions has elevated the careers of players like Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jahmyr Gibbs, making him one of the most sought-after offensive minds in the league.
His youthful energy and innovative approach are especially appealing in an era where offensive-minded coaches are highly valued.
Will Jacksonville Make the Move?
If the Jaguars part ways with Pederson, they’ll face stiff competition to secure Johnson’s services. However, the opportunity to coach a talent-rich roster and work with one of the league’s brightest young quarterbacks in Trevor Lawrence could give Jacksonville an edge over other suitors.
For now, the Jaguars remain in a holding pattern as the season winds down, but the prospect of Ben Johnson taking the reins in Jacksonville has fans buzzing about the possibilities.
What’s Next for Johnson?
With several teams expected to make coaching changes in the coming weeks, Ben Johnson’s name will likely continue to dominate headlines. Whether he ends up in Jacksonville, Chicago, or elsewhere, one thing is clear: Johnson’s rise through the coaching ranks is just beginning, and his next move could shape the NFL landscape for years to come.
