Ben Johnson’s work is appreciated as the Detroit Lions continue to march toward their first Super Bowl. Unsurprisingly, his name has generated the most attention in this year’s hiring cycle.
Jacksonville Jaguars fans are convinced that Johnson is the right man to lead them — especially after quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s latest admission.
Fans Suggest Trevor Lawrence Wants Ben Johnson on the Sidelines
The morning after the Jaguars finished their 4-13 season, head coach Doug Pederson was fired. Since then, owner Shad Khan has been on the lookout for his replacement. In a recent interview, Lawrence highlighted the qualities he wants in his next HC.
“Obviously I’m biased, I’m an offensive guy,” said Lawrence. “So, I would love to have a young, offensive coach that can have our system, and we can build on it for years to come.”
“Obviously I’m biased, I’m an offensive guy. So I would love to have a young, offensive coach that can have our system and we can build on it for years to come.” @Trevorlawrencee | #DUUUVAL
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) January 15, 2025
The Jaguars’ fan base took this as a hint, that Lawrence is lobbying for Johnson.
“Ben Johnson is literally right there. We’re just making things harder than they should be per usual,” replied one fan.
“Do the right thing Jaguars PLEASEEEEEE. Fire BAALKE and get Ben Johnson,” tweeted one fan.
Do the right thing @Jaguars PLEASEEEEEE. Fire BAALKE and get Ben Johnson.
— Neel P (@medstudNP) January 15, 2025
“LISTEN TO YOUR QB AND GIVE BEN JOHNSON WHATEVER HE WANTS!!!” added a fan.
“Translation: ‘Bring me Ben Johnson right now.’” responded a fan.
Translation: “Bring me Ben Johnson right now.” pic.twitter.com/KKHzr1vgXF
— Slick Nick 🤘🏼⬆️ (@NicholasFlo123) January 15, 2025
“16 wants a YOUNG offensive coach. Hello Ben, welcome to Ponte Vedra Beach,” added another fan.
“Trevor please stop being nice and tell them you want Ben Johnson,” another fan tweeted.
Trevor please stop being nice and tell them you want Ben Johnson 🤣🤣
— … (@CJ8K_) January 15, 2025
Insider Highlights Issue in Jaguars Hiring Johnson
While the front office fired Pederson, general manager Trent Baalke was retained. ESPN insider Dan Graziano suggests this could be an issue for Johnson. In his column, he wrote that a week ago, Jacksonville could’ve been the best place for Johnson to land.
“But the Jaguars’ decision to move on from Pederson and keep GM Trent Baalke has raised some red flags for potential head coach candidates who are hoping to start with a fully clean slate,” wrote Graziano.
“And it means Johnson could be looking at other situations where he and a new GM would come in together.”
Per Graziano, Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady is most likely to get the job with the Jaguars.