Ben Johnson on Choosing Lions Over NFL HC Jobs: ‘I Want to Reap the Rewards’ Longer

Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson was one of the most popular head coaching candidates over the past few offseasons, but he chose to stay put each time.

Johnson explained his decision to reporters on Thursday, saying he wants to continue building on the foundation head coach Dan Campbell has laid in Detroit since he arrived in 2021.

“I think when it boils down to it, I want the sun to shine a little bit longer. That’s really what it comes down for me,” Johnson said of his decision to return to Detroit, per ESPN’s Eric Woodyard. “I like the sunshine. I like what we’ve built here, starting with ownership, the head coach and the GM on down. We have a great group of guys in the locker room, and I want to reap the rewards with them a little bit longer.”

Johnson interviewed for head coaching vacancies with the Seattle Seahawks, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Chargers. He was set to meet with the Washington Commanders when he made the decision to remain with the Lions.

Johnson said that he fully believes he’s capable of being a head coach, but he doesn’t want to leave a situation he’s enjoyed for the past few years.

“I’m not gonna do it just to do it. I love what I’m doing right now. Love it,” he said. “I love where I’m at. My family loves where we’re at. Love the people that we’re doing it with, so I’m not willing to go down the other path yet, unless I feel really good about how it’s gonna unfold.”

Johnson added that he doesn’t feel like he made the wrong choice by delaying his pursuit of a head coaching job.

“The longer you’re in the coordinator chair, it does nothing but help you and prepare you more for the next step if it ever comes down the pipe,” he said. “Personally, I don’t feel like I’m hurting my opportunities or my abilities to be a head coach in the future, and I love what I’m doing right now.”