Rumor: Ben Johnson Asking for Extremely Lucrative NFL Contract to Coach

Ben Johnson addresses name being discusses as coaching candidate.

Rumors are swirling across the NFL landscape regarding the future of Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. 

According to a report from CBS Sports, Johnson is asking for a significant amount of monies in order to be lured away from the Lions organization. 

NFL reporter Josina Anderson posted on social media, "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." 

Johnson, who is battling a cold this week, addressed his name being brought up again for potential head coaching vacancies. 

Detroit's talented offensive coordinator, in a classy gesture, briefly deflected the conversation to include defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn as also being worthy of being asked about his coaching future. 

"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," said Johnson. "He's phenomenal. He's going to be a phenomenal football head football coach, when he gets the opportunity to do that. 

"And I think when you bring those types of questions up, you need to make sure you're asking them to him as well. The focus right now is on the Minnesota Vikings. That's all we care about. And like I said before, we are obligated to each other to keep our focus on the main thing." 

Johnson noted Glenn's defensive roster respects him immensely and has the necessary balance of being firm but also featuring a gentle touch when needed. 

While reports continue to surface regarding the future of Detroit's coaching staff, they all remain steadfast in their dedication to the Lions' 2023 season. 

Head coach Dan Campbell has often indicated his support of his staff and noted that having opportunities for his assistant coaches to advance is a sign that the organization is headed in the right direction. 

Johnson's agent has taken to social media to refute the report, stating, "I'm told personnel around the league are discussing their awareness that there is no asking price or demand and this tweet is 100% false and irresponsible reporting, per source."

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. pic.twitter.com/uhX3eqsNQR

— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) December 21, 2023