NFL Rumors: Detroit Lions' coordinator Ben Johnson's head coach aspirations stir rumors of high asking price

NEW DELHI: Rumors swirl around the possibility of Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator Ben Johnson making the leap to a head coaching position in the upcoming offseason. However, a noteworthy detail has emerged that could make this 37-year-old coaching prospect a challenging acquisition for interested teams.According to NFL reporter Josina Anderson, discussions are underway within league circles regarding an apparent asking price for hiring Ben Johnson as a head coach. Anderson shared on Twitter, "I'm told personnel around the league are discussing their awareness that some Owners have been told #Lions OC Ben Johnson's asking price is at least or around $15M/year for a head coach job, per source." When approached about the rumors and the potential to become an NFL head coach in the future, Johnson redirected the narrative, emphasizing the current focus on the Detroit Lions' upcoming game against the Minnesota Vikings. In response to the inquiries, Johnson deflected attention, saying, "Did you guys ask A.G. about this? Because he's a guy that we should be asking about that too with what he's done."As the NFL coaching landscape undergoes changes with three head coaches fired this season (Josh McDaniel, Frank Reich, and Brandon Staley), the upcoming offseason promises a hiring frenzy. Speculation already places Ben Johnson on the list of potential head coaching hires. The Los Angeles Chargers and Carolina Panthers emerge as front-runners, with both teams seen as potential beneficiaries of Johnson's coaching prowess.The Panthers had reportedly considered hiring Johnson last year before ultimately selecting Frank Reich. With Johnson's proven development of the Lions' offense, the prospect of pairing him with quarterback Bryce Young and the Panthers seems promising.Similarly, the Los Angeles Chargers, grappling with offensive challenges under coordinator Kellen Moore, could find Johnson's expertise invaluable. With Justin Herbert securing a long-term contract earlier this year, the Chargers are in a prime position to prioritize offensive development around their star quarterback, making Ben Johnson a compelling candidate for the role.