Pats Sought Key Insights During Ben Johnson’s Interview Process
The Patriots interviewed Ben Johnson, exploring how he’d manage as a head coach while calling plays and leading the team.
New England, Patriots, Ben Johnson, Detroit Lions, Mike Vrabel, Drake Maye
New England: The Patriots recently wrapped up an interview with Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. They’re looking for a new head coach, and Johnson is one of the top candidates.
There’s been some chatter about how Johnson stacks up against Mike Vrabel, another strong contender. The big question is how Johnson would juggle being a play-calling head coach while managing the whole team.
People who know him say he’s got a sharp mind for offense. One former colleague even called him “as good as there is as a coach.” But there’s a lot to consider when stepping into a head coach role.
Johnson’s done well in Detroit, leading a highly efficient offense. He’s been picky about his next move, almost taking the Washington job last year before deciding to stay with the Lions. Now, he’s eyeing the Patriots job, especially with young quarterback Drake Maye in the mix.
The interview had to be done over video and was capped at three hours. The Patriots wanted to get a feel for Johnson’s coaching style and how he plans to manage his responsibilities if he continues to call plays.
He’s known for being a hard worker and expects a lot from his players and coaches. But the big question is how he’ll delegate tasks in a new role. He’ll need to balance his game planning with the day-to-day operations of the team.
Handling the media in New England is another challenge. Johnson is seen as a bit of an introvert compared to other coaches. He might prefer working behind the scenes rather than in front of the cameras. But if he wants the Patriots job, he’ll need to step up in that area.
Ultimately, the Kraft family is looking for clear answers on how Johnson would manage his time and responsibilities. If he can nail that down, he might just land the job.