NFL insider: Ben Johnson will be ‘the top contender’ on Panthers’ HC wishlist
The second time is likely to be a charm for Ben Johnson, who will reenter the head-coaching scene this offseason. But will it be the Carolina Panthers that he’s ultimately smitten by?
Well, according to Pro Football Network NFL expert Adam Caplan, they will absolutely try to bring him home.
Caplan reported this about the Detroit Lions offensive coordinator on Thursday:
Johnson came into the season as the unquestioned top head coaching candidate, and he remains that guy. He’ll be the top candidate on the Carolina Panthers list, sources said, for the second straight year among many teams that will want to talk to him.
The Panthers, among others, targeted the highly-regarded play-caller during last year’s searches. But Johnson, as highlighted by Caplan, removed his name from the pool owing to “family considerations.”
Carolina’s interest in Johnson may be the worst-kept secret on the coaching carousel. Owner David Tepper reportedly spent a “good amount of time” with Johnson’s agent at the recent league meetings.
Caplan also added the following about the Charleston, S.C. native:
While he’s very young (38 in May), insiders who have worked with Johnson over the years say he’s knowledgeable beyond his years and is ready to manage a club.
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