3 Most Likely Ben Johnson Replacements for the Lions
By Cem Yolbulan
Since the departures of Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn, the Detroit Lions are looking for their replacements. Head coach Dan Campbell hasn't ruled anything out, stating that he will consider both internal and external candidates for the position.
The offensive coordinator vacancy will not only be a highly sought-after position, but it will also be crucial in whether the Lions will be able to get over the hump next season. Johnson was able to construct the most dynamic and explosive offense in the NFL while maximizing Jared Goff's potential.
Therefore, Johnson's replacement needs to be someone who can maintain that production and keep the Lions as the best offense in the league.
There are a ton of options who would be worthy hires but let's take a look at the three most likely candidates to be the next offensive coordinator in Detroit.
Tanner Engstrand, Lions Passing Game Coordinator
The Lions had a big win on Friday by agreeing to a new deal with offensive line coach Hank Fraley. Despite serious interest elsewhere, Fraley opted to stay in Detroit as the run game coordinator. Dan Campbell obviously values continuity and familiarity with his system.
That is why Tanner Engstrand leads the pack of worthy candidates. If Campbell decides to go with an in-house candidate, it's likely Engstrand's job to lose.
Engstrand joined the Lions as an offensive assistant in 2020 and moved up the ladder to become the passing game coordinator in 2023. He played an important role in Goff's development and Johnson's dynamic offense.
Like Engstrand, Johnson was also the passing game coordinator before taking over as the OC. His promotion would give the Lions the best chance at continuity running the same scheme. That potential of a smooth transition is the strongest argument in Engstrand's favor.