Lions OC Ben Johnson asked if he’ll take all HC interview requests: ‘Don’t know’

Ben Johnson wasn’t an easy fish to catch last offseason and it doesn’t seem like that’ll be much different this time around.

The Detroit Lions offensive coordinator spoke with reporters ahead of his this weekend’s NFC Wild Card Round showdown against the Los Angeles Rams. When asked about the widespread interest he’s garnered as a head-coaching candidate once again, Johnson seemed mostly concerned with . . . you guessed it . . . this weekend’s NFC Wild Card Round showdown against the Los Angeles Rams.

“It’s awesome,” he said on Thursday. “Quite an honor. But, uh, honestly haven’t thought about it—beyond anything that’s going on this week. So, just leave it at that right now.”

He was then asked if he plans on taking all interview requests.

“Don’t know,” he replied.

After bowing out from consideration entirely in 2023, Johnson has received requests from five teams—a bunch that includes the Carolina Panthers. The 37-year-old play-caller, as he reportedly was during last year’s hiring cycle, is considered the “top candidate” in the eyes of Panthers owner David Tepper.

The Atlanta Falcons, Los Angeles Chargers, Tennessee Titans and Washington Commanders are also looking to speak with Johnson.