Ben Johnson Staying With Lions; Impact on Patriots' Offensive Coordinator Search?
One of the most important – and challenging – aspects of a coaching transition is putting together a new staff. Despite being an internal promotion, New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo has a staff to fill out, and after the mess that was the 2023 season, the pressure is on to nail his coordinator hires.
One potential candidate for the open offensive coordinator gig is Detroit Lions passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand. The Pats have interviewed nine candidates so far, with Nick Caley and Luke Getsy getting second interviews.
Engstrand was in line for a promotion in Detroit. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson was the most highly touted coaching candidate of this year’s cycle and had long been penciled in to be the next head coach of the Washington Commanders. However, whether it be from Washington’s hesitation, a salary demand that wasn’t met, or unfinished business in Detroit, Johnson has decided to return to the Lions for 2024.
Detroit lost in heartbreaking fashion to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game. After blowing a 17-point halftime lead, the Lions fell 34-31, ending its chances at a Super Bowl.
The Lions will retain much of their staff, but the opportunity for Engstrand to depart is in play. Johnson’s return means an in-house promotion for Engstrand isn’t coming – at least for another season.
Thus, New England can offer Engstrand something Detroit can’t. As the Patriots continue to conduct their interviews, it’s easy to imagine returning to the Lions coach and attempting to lure him in with his own ambition.
Of course, that means New England would have to prioritize Engstrand, and that is far from a guarantee. Per Albert Breer, the Patriots interviewed former Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Luke Getsy for the same position on Tuesday. Getsy also has a second interview with the New Orleans Saints set for Wednesday.
Engstrand was presumed to be erased from the coaching search but has to figure back into the equation with the recent Johnson news. Whether it’s Engstrand, Getsy, or another offensive mind, the fate of the Patriots – and their next quarterback – hangs in the balance.
