Falcons announce completed interview with Ben Johnson
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – The Atlanta Falcons announced on Sunday, Jan. 21, that they have conducted a virtual interview with Ben Johnson for the position of the organization’s head coach.
At 37 years old, Johnson boasts 12 years of coaching experience in the NFL, with stints at the Miami Dolphins (2012-18) and the Detroit Lions (2019-23). Notably, Johnson’s Lions are still in the playoff contention, securing a victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 31-23, in the NFC’s divisional round. They are set to face the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC title game.
As per NFL protocols, interviews with personnel from other clubs must be conducted virtually before the conclusion of Divisional Playoff games on Sunday, Jan. 21. The timeline for virtual interviews varies based on the participating club’s playoff involvement.
Starting Monday, Jan. 22, teams are allowed to conduct in-person or virtual interviews with candidates employed by other NFL clubs whose seasons have concluded. Initial interviews with candidates from clubs participating in the Conference Championship Games are restricted until the conclusion of the employer club’s season.
Here are the details about Ben Johnson, the potential 19th head coach in Falcons franchise history:
**Interview date:** Friday, Jan. 19
**Current job:** Detroit Lions offensive coordinator
**Resume highlights:**
– Boston College, 2009-11: Johnson served as a graduate assistant for two years before becoming the tight ends coach.
– Miami Dolphins, 2012-18: Johnson started as an offensive assistant, transitioning into the assistant quarterbacks coach in 2012. He later added responsibilities as a tight ends coach, assistant wide receivers coach, and wide receivers coach.
– Detroit Lions, 2019-23: Johnson began as the offensive quality control coach, later becoming the tight ends coach and passing game coordinator. He assumed the role of offensive coordinator in 2022.
**Why he’s a candidate:**
– The Lions experienced success with Johnson as their offensive coordinator, breaking a four-year streak of losing records.
– In the past two seasons, the Lions achieved records of 9-8 and 12-5, with the latter record keeping them in the playoff hunt this season.
– Detroit maintained a high level of offensive success under Johnson, ranking among the top five in points scored and total yards in both 2022 and 2023.
The Falcons, aiming to find offensive consistency, are drawn to Johnson’s proven ability to contribute to offensive success. Atlanta has struggled in recent seasons, and Johnson’s track record aligns with their need for improvement. Furthermore, Johnson has garnered interest from five other NFL teams, including the Seattle Seahawks, Tennessee Titans, Washington Commanders, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Chargers.
While Johnson acknowledges the honor of being considered for head coaching positions, he remains focused on the Lions’ playoff journey, leaving discussions about his future for a later time. Importantly, there are no notable strikes against Johnson, making him a strong candidate for the Falcons’ head coach position.
