Report: Patriots ask to interview Lions' Johnson for head coaching job

The New England Patriots submitted a request to interview Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson for their head coaching vacancy, sources told Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated.

Johnson is the first reported interview request from the Patriots since they fired former head coach Jerod Mayo after one season in charge Sunday.

The Lions offensive coordinator has been a hot commodity in recent coaching carousels. That trend has continued in 2025 with the Chicago Bears also reportedly seeking an interview with him.

The Lions' offense has ranked top five in yardage and scoring in each of Johnson's three seasons as offensive coordinator. His unit peaked this season, averaging more points than any other NFL team (33.2) while also being second in yardage.

Former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel is also rumored to have his eyes on New England's opening.

The Patriots' head coach vacancy is an enticing one thanks to their fourth overall draft pick in 2025 and a projected $130 million in salary cap space.