Heading into the offseason, few expected Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to be linked to the Las Vegas Raiders. The idea seemed unlikely because many assumed Johnson wouldn’t consider the team as an option.
However, as the Raiders’ coaching search progresses, Johnson has emerged as a leading candidate. Reports suggest the two sides may already be in preliminary discussions about a potential deal. While the Raiders can’t formally make an offer yet, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk indicates Las Vegas is seriously pursuing Johnson.
“Recently, we’ve heard a rumor that the Raiders have proposed a ‘massive’ contract to Johnson,” Florio wrote on January 15. “Official offers can’t be made without a face-to-face interview, but the buzz is that a significant figure has been floated unofficially.
“Whether this is credible remains to be seen. Owner Mark Davis isn’t known as one of the league’s wealthiest owners. With payouts still owed to Jon Gruden, Josh McDaniels, Dave Ziegler, Antonio Pierce, and Telesco, the team might need to break the bank to secure Johnson.”
A Bold Move with Potential Backlash
Offering a sizable contract to a first-time head coach would be a bold statement for the Raiders. The team is already paying multiple former coaches and executives, including Gruden, McDaniels, Ziegler, and Pierce. Despite these financial hurdles, the Raiders seem committed to finding a young, visionary coach.
However, such a move might create friction with other NFL owners. Florio speculates that a lucrative deal for Johnson could upset those trying to avoid escalating coaching salaries.
“A ‘massive’ deal could stir unrest among other owners, many of whom aim to prevent bidding wars for coaches. With no salary cap or franchise tag for coaching salaries, the market could spiral out of control,” Florio explained.
Additionally, Tom Brady’s involvement as a minority owner could raise eyebrows.
“For Johnson, it’s more than just the money,” Florio added. “Working with the Raiders would grant him access to Brady. While rules technically limit Brady’s role, there’s speculation they’ve had frequent phone conversations.”
Raiders Likely in the Lead
Although Johnson’s move to Las Vegas isn’t finalized, the Raiders appear to be his top suitor. According to Florio, the decision may come down to staying in Detroit or joining the Raiders.
“There doesn’t seem to be another viable destination,” Florio noted. “Johnson has interviewed with the Raiders, Bears, Jaguars, and Patriots. The alignment he seeks likely doesn’t exist in Jacksonville or Chicago.”
Florio also noted that the Cowboys missed their chance to interview Johnson. “Unless Dallas makes a late push, it’s likely between the Raiders and maintaining the status quo in Detroit. Many around the league now believe Johnson will choose the Raiders.”
