Lions OC Ben Johnson Seeks 'Front Office Alignment' Amid Contract Negotiations

Lions OC Ben Johnson staying in Detroit after interviewing with Texans

Lions OC Ben Johnson Seeks 'Front Office Alignment' Amid Contract Negotiations

Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has emerged as a rising star in the NFL coaching ranks, leading the Lions to a surprising 9-8 record in 2022 and a near-playoff berth. As Johnson enters the final year of his contract, he is reportedly seeking a "front office alignment" with the organization before signing a long-term extension.

Johnson's Value to the Lions

Johnson has quickly established himself as one of the league's most innovative and effective offensive minds. Under his leadership, the Lions' offense has flourished, ranking among the top 10 in several key metrics, including points per game (8th), yards per game (9th), and third-down conversion rate (10th).

Johnson's offense is characterized by its versatility and unpredictability. He employs multiple formations and personnel groupings, making it difficult for defenses to predict the Lions' intentions. Johnson also has a knack for scheming open receivers and creating explosive plays.

The Contract Negotiations

As Johnson's contract expires at the end of the 2023 season, the Lions have made it clear that they want to keep him in Detroit for the long term. However, negotiations have reportedly stalled over Johnson's desire for a "front office alignment."

Sources close to Johnson say that he wants to have a voice in the Lions' personnel decisions. He believes that his offensive philosophy requires a certain type of player, and he wants to be involved in the process of acquiring those players.

The Lions front office, led by general manager Brad Holmes, has traditionally operated with a more centralized approach to personnel decisions. Holmes has the final say on all roster moves, and he has been hesitant to give Johnson a significant role in the decision-making process.

Different Perspectives

Comparison to Other Teams

It is not uncommon for offensive coordinators to have some input on personnel decisions in the NFL. Some teams, such as the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills, give their offensive coordinators a significant role in the drafting and acquisition of players.

However, other teams, such as the New England Patriots and Green Bay Packers, operate with a more centralized approach to personnel decisions, with the general manager having the final say on all roster moves.

Conclusion

The contract negotiations between the Lions and Ben Johnson are a reflection of the changing power dynamics in the NFL. Offensive coordinators are becoming increasingly influential, and they are demanding a greater say in the decision-making process.

The Lions must decide whether they are willing to give Johnson the "front office alignment" he seeks. If they do, they could potentially lock up one of the league's brightest offensive minds for the long term. However, if they are not willing to give Johnson a significant role in personnel decisions, they could risk losing him to another team that is willing to meet his demands.



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