Ben Johnson, the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, was considered a top candidate for one of the open head coaching vacancies after the 2023 season. The Washington Commanders were one of the vacancies that some saw as a possible fit for the brilliant offensive mind, given their draft capital and cap room. According to ESPN, the 37-year-old may have clashed with the new ownership group that controls the Commanders.

“Was told that Ben Johnson was “put off” by Commanders ownership, that they’re “basketball men,” and felt they were a little too confident in their football opinions,” Jenna Laine said online. “And I also heard that he “didn’t interview well.” He stated what he said, but it was plainly not a good fit for all parties.”

After purportedly attempting to fly to Detroit, Johnson surprised officials in Washington by informing them that he wanted to remain in Detroit. Several players have voiced feelings of “unfinished business” following the team’s loss to the 49ers in the NFC Championship Game. Johnson has built a solid bond with Detroit’s head coach, Dan Campbell.

Ben Johnson and Commanders had major doubts about each other

Ben Johnson, the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, was widely regarded as the front-runner for the Washington Commanders’ head coaching position until he abruptly withdrew from consideration as the organization prepared for a second interview with him. Reports are beginning to emerge as to why things turned out the way they did.

Dueling stories emerged on Friday, suggesting that each side was blaming the other for the pairing’s failure. In an appearance on the “Puck & Jim” show on 950 KJR in Seattle, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo stated that Johnson had a horrible interview with the Commanders and was unlikely to be the favorite for the job at the time.

Johnson and the Commanders appear to be attempting to save face by implying that the other was the problem, as the hire was thought to be unavoidable in some circles. There have also been allegations that Johnson demanded too much money, and Johnson has privately told players that he believes he has unfinished business in Detroit. Johnson, who has been seen as a top head coach contender for the past two offseasons, was also known to be highly choosy about job vacancies and only sought one of the positions that eventually became available.

It’s possible that Johnson and the Commanders saw each other as a perfect match at first, but had serious reservations about each other during the interview process. Johnson will most likely pursue other opportunities in the future, while the Commanders will hope for the best under new coach Dan Quinn.