Commanders news: Ben Johnson, Sam Howell, Adam Peters and Drake Maye
By Dean Jones
![Ben Johnson Ben Johnson](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_1403,h_789,x_560,y_21/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/ImagnImages/mmsport/61/01hm3t6egkpgxhke2kcr.jpg)
Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines as fans eagerly await the appointment of a new head coach?
The Washington Commanders are being viewed differently around the league after hiring Adam Peters to lead their football operation. This is a significant coup by Josh Harris as part of his vision for sustained success. Assessments are ongoing and a lot of hard work is ahead, but things couldn't have gone much better in the days following their 2023 regular-season finale against the Dallas Cowboys.
While we wait for further developments - especially when it comes to Washington's new head coach - the stories causing debate include Sam Howell's mental challenges, the Commanders targeting a primary candidate, confidence in Adam Peters from a former general manager, and a recent mock draft brings a potential franchise quarterback.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders prioritizing Ben Johnson
Ben Johnson is the hottest name in this year's head coaching cycle. The Detroit Lions offensive coordinator has a chance to enhance his flourishing reputation in a playoff setting tonight, but Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that the Washington Commanders have already keyed in on the progressive play-caller to replace Ron Rivera.
The senior insider added that the Carolina Panthers are also expected to make a bold bid for Johnson after he spurned their advances last year. David Tepper's not exactly renowned for successfully running his franchise, but there is a connection to the area and the billionaire can outbid almost anybody. However, Josh Harris' project makes the Commanders an intriguing destination for anyone these days.
While Washington is going to attack this search for a head coach with openness and flexibility, the Commanders are targeting Detroit's Ben Johnson as their top choice, per sources. Carolina is also hoping to land Johnson.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) January 13, 2024
Washington will cast their net far and wide and need to have a contingency plan in place if Johnson goes elsewhere. But if Harris can land the two most coveted individuals in this year's head coach and general manager cycle, hope for a quick turnaround will immediately increase.