Ranking the 7 confirmed Commanders head coaching candidates in 2024 so far
By Dean Jones
1. Commanders could hire Ben Johnson
- Offensive Coordinator | Detroit Lions
It comes as no surprise to see Ben Johnson among the hottest names of this head coaching cycle. The Detroit Lions offensive coordinator has come in for supreme praise once again this season they clinched the NFC North for the first time in franchise history. After spurning the advances of others during the previous cycle, this looks like the year where the progressive play-caller takes the plunge.
The Washington Commanders identified Johnson as one of their shortlisted candidates early. They were the first team to put in an interview request for his services. Josh Harris has also set things up perfectly for this job to be an attractive one to their preferred targets.
What Johnson's done with Detroit's offense is extraordinary. His ability to get inexperienced players to contribute significantly and almost immediately is remarkable. The Lions' blocking schemes across the offensive line are staggeringly good. His play-calling in crucial moments is another reason why he's such a hot commodity.
Johnson's ability to get Jared Goff's career back on track cannot be overlooked. The former No. 1 pick looked down and out after his trade from the Los Angeles Rams. Instead, the offensive coordinator turned him into one of the league's most efficient passers.
Considering the Commanders are going to be looking for a new signal-caller - perhaps with the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft - Johnson is the perfect man to lead this exciting era of change. The Carolina Panthers are expected to throw everything they have in pursuit of landing the play-caller, but Washington has some unique selling points of its own following a change in ownership.
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